There’s something magical about the combination of sweet, sticky honey and savory garlic—especially when it coats tender, flaky salmon. As someone who loves quick, flavorful meals, I’m always looking for ways to make cooking easier without sacrificing taste. That’s why these Crispy Air Fryer Honey Garlic Salmon Bites have become a staple in my kitchen. They’re ready in under 20 minutes, packed with bold flavors, and perfectly crispy on the outside while staying juicy inside.
If you’ve ever hesitated about cooking salmon because you’re afraid of overcooking it, the air fryer is your best friend. It locks in moisture while giving the fish a delicious caramelized crust. Plus, the honey garlic glaze is so addictive that you’ll want to drizzle it on everything. Whether you’re making a quick weeknight dinner or impressing guests with an easy appetizer, these salmon bites are a game-changer.
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Fresh salmon fillet: The star of the dish! Look for a high-quality, skinless salmon fillet with a vibrant pink-orange color and firm texture. Fresh salmon ensures the best flavor and tenderness. If using frozen, make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry to avoid excess moisture.
Honey: This natural sweetener creates a glossy, caramelized glaze that balances the savory garlic and soy sauce. Use raw honey for a deeper flavor, but regular honey works just as well.
Soy sauce: Adds umami depth and saltiness to the glaze. Opt for low-sodium soy sauce if you’re watching your salt intake, or substitute with tamari for a gluten-free version.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic gives the best punch of flavor. Avoid pre-minced garlic from a jar, as it can taste bitter when cooked.
Cornstarch: The secret to ultra-crispy salmon bites! A light coating of cornstarch helps the exterior get perfectly golden in the air fryer.
Olive oil: A light brush of oil helps the salmon crisp up and prevents sticking. You can also use avocado oil for a higher smoke point.
Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning the salmon before cooking. Freshly cracked black pepper adds a subtle warmth.
Red pepper flakes (optional): For a little kick! If you like heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes balances the sweetness of the honey.
Ingredients List
- 1 lb skinless salmon fillet, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tbsp honey
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tbsp chopped green onions or sesame seeds (for garnish)
How to Make Crispy Air Fryer Honey Garlic Salmon Bites
Step 1: Prepare the Salmon
Pat the salmon cubes dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. This helps the cornstarch adhere better and ensures crispiness. Place the salmon in a bowl and season with salt and black pepper.
Step 2: Coat with Cornstarch
Sprinkle cornstarch over the salmon and gently toss until each piece is lightly coated. The cornstarch will create a delicate crust in the air fryer.
Step 3: Air Fry the Salmon
Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Lightly brush the air fryer basket with olive oil to prevent sticking. Arrange the salmon in a single layer, leaving space between each piece for even cooking. Air fry for 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
Step 4: Make the Honey Garlic Glaze
While the salmon cooks, whisk together honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes (if using) in a small saucepan. Heat over low-medium heat for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 5: Toss Salmon in Glaze
Transfer the crispy salmon bites to a bowl and drizzle with the warm honey garlic glaze. Gently toss to coat evenly.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for a fresh, crunchy finish. Serve immediately while hot!
Tips for Making This Recipe
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer—cook in batches if needed to ensure crispiness.
- Check for doneness early—salmon cooks quickly and should flake easily with a fork.
- Double the glaze if you love extra saucy bites!
- Serve with sides like steamed rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Use fresh garlic—it makes a huge difference in flavor compared to pre-minced.
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, but thaw it completely and pat it dry to avoid excess moisture, which can prevent crispiness.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes to restore crispiness.
Can I bake these instead?
Yes! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway, but they won’t be as crispy as air-fried.
Is there a substitute for cornstarch?
Arrowroot powder or tapioca starch can work, but cornstarch gives the best crispiness.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes! Use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure your cornstarch is gluten-free.
Enjoy your crispy, sticky, and irresistible honey garlic salmon bites—they’re sure to become a favorite!