Air Fryer Salmon Bites deliver the best of both worlds: juicy, melt-in-your-mouth centers with an irresistible crispy exterior. And the best part? They're on the table in 15 minutes or less. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you're just craving something seriously flavorful without the fuss.
Ingredients You'll Need
1 lb Salmon (remove the skin). ⇢ Provides the primary source of protein and those beneficial omega-3 fatty acids. Skinless is best for air frying as the skin gets rubbery, not crispy.
Paprika. ⇢ Adds a touch of warmth and subtle sweetness. Also contributes a beautiful reddish hue to the salmon.
Brown Sugar. ⇢ Provides sweetness that balances the spices and helps create that lovely caramelized crust in the air fryer.
Smoked Paprika. ⇢ Delivers an irresistible smoky flavor profile, adding depth and complexity.
Chili Powder. ⇢ Gives the salmon a gentle kick of heat. Adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance.
Garlic & Onion Powder. ⇢ An essential savory base note, providing aromatic flavor.
Olive Oil. ⇢ Helps the spices adhere to the salmon and promotes that gorgeous golden-brown crispiness.
Cornstarch ⇢ Acts as a binder for the spices and helps create an extra-crispy outer layer on the salmon bites.
Kosher Salt. ⇢ Enhances all the flavors of the other ingredients and the salmon itself.
Air frying gives you perfectly cooked, tender salmon bites every time. It's a great way to avoid dried-out salmon, a common problem with other cooking methods. If you're curious about why salmon dries out and how to prevent it, check out our guide here.
How To Make Air Fryer Salmon Bites (Step-by-Step)
Time to Cube that Salmon!
Get Rid of that Skin: If your salmon has skin, now's the time to say goodbye! It won't get crispy in the air fryer.
Grab Some Paper Towels: Give your salmon a quick pat dry. This helps the spices stick and ensures you get that perfect golden-brown crispiness.
Cube Time! Slice those gorgeous filets into bite-sized cubes, roughly 1 to 2 inches each. Why cubes? They get maximum flavor from the spices and cook super evenly. No more worrying about dry pieces – just perfectly tender salmon all the way through!
Let's Get Saucy (with Spices, that is)!
Sprinkle on your favorite spice mix – it'll cling perfectly to every nook and cranny. And don't forget that splash of olive oil; it helps all those delicious spices stick and gives the outside a lovely golden crispness.
Air Fryer Magic Time!
Preheat that air fryer to 400°F! Pop your seasoned salmon bites in the basket and spread them out a bit. Give 'em a little space to get extra crispy! Air fry for about 8 minutes, but keep in mind that air fryer models can vary slightly. For a touch more on the medium side, pull them out after 6-7 minutes.
Crispy Tips.
Don't overcrowd the basket! If needed, cook your salmon bites in batches to make sure they brown evenly. A quick shake or flip halfway through helps too!
These air fryer salmon bites are seriously delicious. And don't forget your favorite dipping sauce – it takes these bites to the next level!
Serving Suggestion
- Dips for Days: These salmon bites are delicious on their own, but a tasty dip takes things to the next level! Think creamy dill sauce, tangy tartar sauce, tzatziki sauce, Basil sauce, remoulade sauce, Popeye sweet heat sauce, DQ Flamethrower sauce, classic honey mustard, or a simple squeeze of lemon. The possibilities are endless!
- Perfect Pairings: Your air fryer salmon bites are the star, but what about sides? They go great with simple roasted veggies (think broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts), a fresh salad for a lighter touch, or fluffy rice to soak up any extra sauce
Try another favorite: My Taiwanese Popcorn Chicken
Ready for More Air Fryer Adventures?
If you loved these crispy, juicy, and oh-so-easy air fryer salmon bites, you're in for a treat! I have another amazing recipe that transforms air fryer salmon into the most incredible tacos. My Air Fryer Salmon Tacos are packed with flavor, healthy, and seriously satisfying. Click here to check out the recipe.
Full Recipe
Air Fryer Salmon Bites Recipe
Pin RecipeEquipments:
- Air Fryer
Ingredients:
- 1 lb Salmon (remove the skin)
For Seasoning:
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Kosher salt
- 3 teaspoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Instructions:
- Prep Your Salmon: Ditch the skin (if it's there). A quick pat dry with paper towels ensures the spices cling perfectly.Cube that salmon! Aim for 1 to 2-inch pieces – ideal for flavor and even cooking.pen_spark
- Get Saucy (with Spices!): Mix up your favorite spice blend in a small bowl.Coat those salmon cubes! Use your hands to toss the cubes with the spice mix and a bit of oil.
- Let the Air Fryer Work Its Magic: Preheat that air fryer to 400°F.Dump your seasoned salmon into the basket and give those bites some room to get crispy!Air fry for roughly 8 minutes (or 6-7 minutes if you prefer medium).
- Dig In! Prepare for deliciousness! Your salmon should be flaky and golden. Gently press with a fork to check.
Notes:
Serving Suggestions:
- Dips for Days: These salmon bites are delicious on their own, but a tasty dip takes things to the next level! Think creamy dill sauce, tangy tartar sauce, tzatziki sauce, a remoulade sauce, Popeye sweet heat sauce, DQ Flamethrower sauce, classic honey mustard, or a simple squeeze of lemon. The possibilities are endless!
- Perfect Pairings: Your air fryer salmon bites are the star, but what about sides? They go great with simple roasted veggies (think broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts), a fresh salad for a lighter touch, or fluffy rice to soak up any extra sauce.
General FAQs
- Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe? Yes, but thaw it completely first and pat it dry thoroughly before seasoning. Frozen salmon might need an extra minute or two of cooking time.
- What kind of dipping sauces go well with air fryer salmon bites? The possibilities are endless! Try creamy dill sauce, tartar sauce, spicy sriracha mayo, honey mustard, or a simple squeeze of lemon.
- How do I store leftover air fryer salmon bites? Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- How do I reheat leftover salmon bites? For optimal crispiness, reheat them in the air fryer at 350 degrees F for 3-5 minutes, or until heated through.
Air Frying FAQs
- Do I need to preheat my air fryer? Yes! Preheating ensures even cooking and the best crispy texture.
- Do I need to spray the air fryer basket with oil? A light spray helps with crispiness and easy salmon removal. Alternatively, you can use a piece of parchment paper in the basket.
- Can I cook the salmon bites in batches? Yes, if they don't all fit in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding for optimal browning.
Recipe FAQs
- What can I substitute for smoked paprika? Regular paprika is fine, but you'll miss that smoky flavor. A tiny pinch of chipotle powder adds a similar smoky element with a kick.
- Can I use another type of oil? Yes, any neutral high-heat oil like avocado oil or grapeseed oil will work.
- I don't have cornstarch. What else can I use? Arrowroot starch or tapioca starch are good substitutes. In a pinch, a light dusting of flour will work, though the crust won't be as crispy.
Nutrition Information:
Please note that all nutrition information are just estimates. Values will vary among brands, so we encourage you to calculate these on your own for most accurate results.
How long does leftover salmon stay good in the fridge?
Ok, let's be real – these salmon bites are so delicious that leftovers might be a rare occurrence! But if you happen to have some, the good news is that cooked salmon keeps for about 3 days in the fridge.
- Best Flavor Guarantee: For absolute peak texture and flavor, try to eat those leftovers within 24 hours.
- Reheating Dilemma: Reheating salmon can dry it out (we want to avoid sadness at all costs!). That's why I'm officially a member of Team Cold Salmon!
Get creative with those leftover bites:
- Ultimate Salad Topper: Flake those bites over a fresh salad for extra protein.
- Dipping Delight: Dip those cold bites into your favorite sauce for a quick snack.
- Bagel Upgrade: Smash some salmon with cream cheese on a bagel – instant gourmet breakfast!
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, but thaw it completely first and pat it dry thoroughly before seasoning. Frozen salmon might need an extra minute or two of cooking time.
The possibilities are endless! Try creamy dill sauce, tartar sauce, spicy sriracha mayo, honey mustard, or a simple squeeze of lemon.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
For optimal crispiness, reheat them in the air fryer at 350 degrees F for 3-5 minutes, or until heated through.
Air Frying FAQs
A light spray helps with crispiness and easy salmon removal. Alternatively, you can use a piece of parchment paper in the basket.
Yes, if they don't all fit in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding for optimal browning.
No need to fuss with flipping halfway through cooking. The air fryer's magic ensures those bites get perfectly crispy and golden all over. Just make sure they're not crowded in the basket, and you're golden (pun intended!).
Recipe FAQs
Regular paprika is fine, but you'll miss that smoky flavor. A tiny pinch of chipotle powder adds a similar smoky element with a kick.
Arrowroot starch or tapioca starch are good substitutes. In a pinch, a light dusting of flour will work, though the crust won't be as crispy.
