Air Fryer Salmon Bites are little pieces of salmon that come out crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. These bites are seasoned just right, making each one full of flavor without being complicated. The air fryer gives them that perfect crispiness without needing a lot of oil, which makes it a quick and lighter way to enjoy salmon.
I love making these salmon bites when I want something easy and tasty for a snack or a quick meal. They cook super fast, which means less waiting and more eating. Sometimes I toss them in a little bit of lemon juice or a dipping sauce on the side to add a fresh zing. It’s such a simple addition but really makes the whole thing pop.
You can serve these bites on their own, with a salad, or even in wraps for a fun twist. I’ve found that kids and adults alike really enjoy them because they’re easy to eat and not fishy at all. When I make a batch, I always have to remind myself not to eat them all at once because they’re just that good!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets work best for tender bites. If fresh isn’t available, frozen salmon thawed completely is fine. Wild-caught salmon has a richer flavor but farmed works well and is usually cheaper.
Olive Oil: Helps the seasoning stick and crisps the outside. You can substitute avocado or grapeseed oil if you prefer a different flavor or higher smoke point.
Spices: Garlic powder and smoked paprika give a nice depth without overpowering. If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika or a pinch of chili powder adds a tasty kick instead.
Herbs & Garnish: Fresh parsley adds a fresh touch at the end. If you want, use cilantro or chives to change up the flavor profile.
Dipping Sauce: The yogurt and dill dip is simple and fresh, but you can swap it with tartar sauce, ranch, or even a squeeze of plain lemon juice for a quick option.
How Do You Get Crispy Salmon Bites Without Drying Them Out?
Cooking salmon bites in the air fryer can dry them if you cook too long or at too high a temperature. Here’s how to get that crispy outside while keeping the inside tender:
- Cut the salmon into evenly sized cubes for uniform cooking.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket; giving each piece space lets hot air circulate for crispiness.
- Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway to brown all sides evenly.
- Keep an eye on the salmon near the end — it should be just cooked through and flake easily with a fork.
- Using a bit of oil helps the outside crisp up without sticking and keeps the salmon moist inside.
With these tips, you’ll get salmon bites that are golden and crunchy outside and tender inside every time!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Air fryer – perfect for making crispy salmon bites quickly without much oil.
- Mixing bowl – helps you toss the salmon and spices evenly.
- Tongs or a spatula – for flipping and shaking the salmon bites in the air fryer.
- Sharp knife – for cutting the salmon into even, bite-sized pieces.
- Measuring spoons – easy way to get the right amount of spices and oil.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Try Cajun seasoning instead of smoked paprika for a spicy twist that adds bold flavor.
- Swap salmon for shrimp or firm white fish to change things up while keeping great texture.
- Add a sprinkle of lemon zest and fresh dill for a bright, fresh citrus-herb note.
- Mix in a touch of honey or maple syrup to the olive oil for a slightly sweet glaze.
How to Make Air Fryer Salmon Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Salmon Bites:
- 1 lb salmon fillet, skin removed and cut into bite-sized cubes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges, for serving
For The Dipping Sauce (optional):
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and roughly 8-10 minutes to cook in the air fryer. It’s a very quick and easy dish you can get on the table in under 20 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare The Salmon Bites:
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Meanwhile, place the salmon cubes in a mixing bowl. Add olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Toss gently until the salmon is evenly coated with the spices and oil.
2. Cook In The Air Fryer:
Arrange the salmon bites in a single layer in your air fryer basket. Make sure they aren’t piled up to let the hot air circulate freely. Cook the bites at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes. Shake the basket gently halfway through to help the salmon crisp evenly on all sides.
3. Prepare The Sauce & Serve:
While the salmon cooks, mix the Greek yogurt, chopped dill, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a small bowl for a refreshing dipping sauce. When the salmon bites are done, carefully remove them from the air fryer. Sprinkle the chopped parsley over the top. Serve immediately with lemon wedges and the dipping sauce on the side.
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon, but be sure to fully thaw it in the fridge overnight before cutting into cubes. Pat the pieces dry to remove excess moisture for better crispiness.
How Should I Store Leftover Salmon Bites?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the air fryer or microwave to keep them crispy and tasty.
Can I Adjust the Seasonings?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap smoked paprika with regular paprika or Cajun seasoning for a spicy kick. You can also add lemon zest or fresh herbs to customize the flavor.
Is It Necessary to Use the Dipping Sauce?
The dipping sauce is optional but adds a nice fresh contrast to the salmon bites. If you’re short on time, just a squeeze of lemon works great too!