There’s something incredibly satisfying about perfectly cooked salmon—flaky, tender, and packed with flavor. But let’s be honest, sometimes we want a fun twist on the classic fillet. That’s where these Air Fryer Salmon Bites come in! These bite-sized pieces are crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and ready in just minutes. Whether you’re meal prepping, looking for a quick dinner, or just craving a protein-packed snack, this recipe is a game-changer.
I love how the air fryer locks in moisture while giving the salmon a deliciously crisp edge. Plus, the seasoning options are endless—you can keep it simple with salt and pepper or spice things up with a smoky paprika rub. Even if you’re new to cooking salmon, this method is foolproof. No more dry, overcooked fish—just golden, flavorful bites every time!
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Fresh salmon fillet: The star of the dish! Look for a center-cut fillet with vibrant pink-orange flesh and minimal white streaks (those are fat deposits). Wild-caught salmon has a richer flavor, but farm-raised works just as well.
Olive oil: A light coating helps the seasoning stick and ensures the salmon crisps up beautifully in the air fryer. Extra virgin olive oil adds a subtle fruity note, but any neutral oil like avocado oil works too.
Garlic powder: This adds a warm, savory depth without the hassle of mincing fresh garlic. If you love bold flavors, smoked garlic powder is a fantastic alternative.
Paprika: Sweet or smoked paprika both work—smoked adds a deeper, almost barbecue-like flavor, while sweet paprika keeps things mild and slightly peppery.
Salt & black pepper: Essential for enhancing all the other flavors. Freshly cracked black pepper gives the best aroma.
Lemon wedges (optional): A squeeze of bright, tangy lemon juice right before serving cuts through the richness of the salmon beautifully.
Ingredients List
- 1 lb (450g) fresh salmon fillet, skin removed, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika (sweet or smoked)
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
How to Make Air Fryer Salmon Bites
Step 1: Prep the Salmon
Pat the salmon cubes dry with a paper towel—this helps them crisp up instead of steaming. Place them in a bowl and drizzle with olive oil, tossing gently to coat evenly.
Step 2: Season the Salmon
In a small bowl, mix the garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Sprinkle the seasoning over the salmon and toss again until all pieces are well coated.
Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer
Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and let it heat up for 3 minutes. Preheating ensures even cooking and a crispier exterior.
Step 4: Cook the Salmon Bites
Arrange the salmon cubes in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving a little space between each piece. Air fry for 6-8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the edges are golden and the inside is flaky.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy
Transfer the salmon bites to a plate and squeeze fresh lemon juice over them if desired. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce or over a salad!
Tips for Making This Recipe
- Don’t overcrowd the basket—cook in batches if needed to ensure crispiness.
- Check for doneness early—salmon cooks quickly, and thinner pieces may need less time.
- Try different seasonings—cajun, chili lime, or even a honey-soy glaze work wonderfully.
- Use skinless salmon—the skin can become chewy in the air fryer.
- Serve with dips—tzatziki, sriracha mayo, or a simple yogurt-dill sauce pair perfectly.
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes! Thaw it completely and pat it dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer for 2-3 minutes to restore crispiness.
Can I make these in the oven?
Absolutely! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes on a parchment-lined sheet.
What’s the best dipping sauce for salmon bites?
I love a creamy dill sauce or spicy aioli, but even a simple squeeze of lemon works!
How do I know when the salmon is done?
The salmon should flake easily with a fork and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Enjoy your crispy, flavorful salmon bites—they’re sure to become a regular in your meal rotation! 🍋🔥