These salmon bites are fast, fuss-free, and incredibly delicious. The air fryer gives them a lightly crisp texture without the need for heavy oil or breading. They’re versatile enough to pair with rice bowls, salads, wraps, or dipping sauces—and they’re ready in under 15 minutes. It’s everything you love about salmon in fun, bite-sized form.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Fresh salmon fillets, skin removed and cut into cubes
Olive oil
Garlic powder
Paprika
Salt
Black pepper
Lemon juice (optional)
Optional: cayenne pepper, honey, soy sauce, or your favorite marinade
Directions
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
In a bowl, toss the salmon cubes with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add a squeeze of lemon juice or other seasonings if desired.
Arrange the salmon pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they’re not overcrowded.
Air fry for 6–8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the salmon is cooked through and lightly crisp on the outside.
Remove from the air fryer and serve immediately with your choice of sauce or side.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 2–3 people. Prep time is 5 minutes, and cook time is 6–8 minutes. Total time: approximately 13 minutes.
Variations
Asian-inspired: Toss salmon in a mix of soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, and a touch of honey.
Spicy version: Add cayenne pepper or chili flakes for a kick.
Lemon pepper: Use lemon zest and cracked black pepper for a citrusy flavor profile.
Teriyaki glaze: Brush with teriyaki sauce in the last 2 minutes of air frying.
Blackened salmon: Use a Cajun or blackening seasoning blend for bold, smoky heat.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover salmon bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3–4 minutes to restore crispness. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the salmon rubbery. Freezing is not recommended for best texture, but if needed, freeze in a single layer and reheat from frozen in the air fryer.
FAQs
What kind of salmon is best for this recipe?
Skinless Atlantic or sockeye salmon fillets work best. Fresh is ideal, but you can also use thawed frozen salmon.
Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, but make sure it’s fully thawed and patted dry before seasoning and cooking.
How do I know when the salmon bites are done?
They should flake easily with a fork and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Can I marinate the salmon first?
Absolutely. Marinate for 15–30 minutes before air frying for deeper flavor.
Do I need to flip or shake the basket?
Yes, shaking or flipping halfway through ensures even cooking and crisping.
Can I bread the salmon?
Yes, you can lightly coat the cubes in breadcrumbs or crushed crackers before air frying for added crunch.
Are these good for meal prep?
Yes, they store well and are great in rice bowls, wraps, or salads.
What sauces go well with salmon bites?
Tartar sauce, garlic aioli, sriracha mayo, teriyaki sauce, or a squeeze of fresh lemon all work beautifully.
Can I make these with other fish?
Yes, this method also works well with cod, halibut, or tilapia—just adjust the cooking time as needed.
Can I cook these in the oven if I don’t have an air fryer?
Yes, bake at 425°F (220°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Conclusion
Air fryer salmon bites are the perfect quick-and-easy solution for a healthy and satisfying meal. With their crisp edges and tender center, they’re endlessly versatile and full of flavor. Whether you’re tossing them into a bowl, loading them into tacos, or enjoying them on their own, these salmon bites are sure to become a weeknight favorite.
Air fryer salmon bites are bite-sized pieces of seasoned salmon cooked to crispy perfection in minutes. With a golden exterior and tender center, they’re a fast, healthy, and delicious option for dinner, meal prep, or snacking.
Author:Catherine
Prep Time:5 minutes
Cook Time:8 minutes
Total Time:13 minutes
Yield:2–3 servings
Category:Main Dish
Method:Air Fryer
Cuisine:American
Ingredients
1 lb fresh salmon fillets, skin removed and cut into 1-inch cubes
1 tbsp olive oil
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 tsp lemon juice (optional)
Optional: pinch of cayenne pepper, 1 tsp honey or soy sauce
Instructions
Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
In a bowl, toss the salmon cubes with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and lemon juice (if using).
Place salmon bites in a single layer in the air fryer basket without overcrowding.
Air fry for 6–8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until salmon is cooked through and lightly crisp on the edges.
Remove from air fryer and serve immediately with your favorite sauce or side.
Notes
Use skinless, boneless salmon fillets for easiest prep and best texture.Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket—cook in batches if needed.Check for doneness: salmon should flake easily and reach 145°F (63°C) internally.For more flavor, marinate the salmon for 15–30 minutes before air frying.Reheat leftovers in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3–4 minutes to maintain crispness.
