Honey Garlic Salmon Bites (Air Fryer Recipe) – 15 Minute Dinner

Crispy, juicy, and glazed with a sticky honey garlic sauce, these Air Fryer Salmon Bites are the ultimate quick dinner. Made from a whole salmon fillet, cut into bite-sized cubes, this recipe is ready in just 15 minutes of cooking time. Perfect over rice, tossed into a salad, or served as finger food.

Air Fryer Salmon Bites Recipe

⚡Air Fryer = Crispy With Less Oil

Cooking salmon bites in the air fryer gives you that perfect crispy outside, juicy inside texture—all while using less oil than pan-frying. That means fewer calories and a lighter, healthier meal without sacrificing flavor.

Glazed Salmon Bites Air Fryer Recipe

🐟 Salmon is an Omega-3 Powerhouse

Each serving of salmon bites is loaded with omega-3 fatty acids, which support brain health, reduce inflammation, and keep your heart strong. Just one portion can provide more than the daily recommended intake.

FAQs

  1. Can I make honey garlic salmon bites without an air fryer?
    Yes, you can bake them at 425°F for 12–15 minutes or pan-sear them on medium-high heat for 3–4 minutes per side.

  2. How long does it take to cook salmon bites in the air fryer?
    About 10–12 minutes at 400°F, depending on the size of your cubes and your air fryer model.

  3. What size should I cut salmon for salmon bites?
    Cut into 1-inch cubes for even cooking and perfect bite-sized pieces.

  4. Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
    Yes, but thaw it completely and pat it dry before marinating.

  5. Do I need to marinate salmon before air frying?
    Marinating for at least 30 minutes gives the salmon maximum flavor and tenderness.

  6. Can I use skin-on salmon for salmon bites?
    Yes, but it’s easier to eat and coat evenly if you remove the skin first.

  7. How do I stop salmon from sticking to the air fryer?
    Line the basket with foil or parchment, or spray lightly with oil.

  8. What temperature should salmon be cooked to?
    Salmon is safe to eat at an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

  9. Can I meal prep salmon bites?
    Yes, cook them ahead of time and store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer for best texture.

  10. Can I freeze cooked salmon bites?
    Yes, freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat in the air fryer at 375°F for 5–6 minutes.

  11. What can I serve with salmon bites?
    They pair perfectly with rice, quinoa, roasted veggies, mashed potatoes, or even as an appetizer with dipping sauce.

  12. Can I make salmon bites spicy?
    Absolutely—add chili flakes, sriracha, or cayenne pepper to the marinade.

  13. What type of salmon is best for salmon bites?
    Fresh Atlantic or Pacific salmon fillets work best. Choose skinless or remove the skin before cubing.

  14. Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?
    Yes, but cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the air fryer.

  15. Why did my salmon bites turn out dry?
    They may have been overcooked. Keep a close eye during the last few minutes and remove as soon as they flake easily.

  16. Can I make honey garlic salmon bites gluten-free?
    Yes, substitute tamari or coconut aminos for soy sauce.

  17. Do I need to flip salmon bites in the air fryer?
    Shaking the basket halfway ensures even cooking and caramelization.

  18. Can I use the marinade as a sauce?
    Yes—line the basket with foil to catch the juices, then spoon them back over the salmon after cooking.

  19. Are air fryer salmon bites healthy?
    Yes, they’re high in protein, rich in omega-3 fatty acids, and cooked with less oil than pan-frying.

  20. Can I make salmon bites without honey?
    Yes, substitute maple syrup, agave, or even brown sugar for a different sweetness profile.

Make it

Honey Garlic Salmon Bites (Air Fryer Recipe) – 15 Minute Dinner

Juicy, golden, and glazed with a sticky honey-garlic sauce, these Air Fryer Salmon Bites are made from a whole salmon fillet cut into perfect cubes. The foil-lined basket captures all the flavorful juices, which you spoon over the salmon at the end for a glossy, restaurant-style finish. Quick, easy, and packed with flavor—this will become your go-to weeknight dinner.

🕒 Recipe Details

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes

  • Marinating Time: 30 minutes

  • Cook Time: 20–25 minutes (2 batches)

  • Total Time: ~1 hour

  • Servings: 4–6

🛒 Ingredients

  • 2–2.5 lb fresh salmon fillet, skin removed, cut into 1-inch cubes

  • 3 tbsp melted butter

  • 3 tbsp olive oil

  • 3 tbsp soy sauce (low-sodium recommended)

  • 3 tbsp honey

  • 4 cloves garlic, minced

  • 3 tbsp brown sugar

  • 3 tbsp Dijon mustard

  • ¼ tsp black pepper (or to taste)

  • ⅛ tsp kosher salt

  • 2 scallions, thinly sliced (for garnish)

  • Lemon wedges, for serving

🍳 Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade:
    In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, olive oil, soy sauce, honey, garlic, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.

  2. Cut & Marinate the Salmon:
    Place the salmon fillet skin-side down on a cutting board. Remove the skin (see pro tip below), then cut the fillet into 1-inch cubes. Add cubes to the marinade and toss until fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

  3. Preheat Air Fryer:
    Preheat to 400°F (200°C) for 3–5 minutes.

  4. Prepare the Basket:
    Line the air fryer basket with aluminum foil, folding up the edges to form a shallow tray. This will catch the juices for your glaze.

  5. Air Fry in Batches:
    Arrange salmon cubes in a single layer (don’t overcrowd). Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes, until golden brown and flaky. Repeat with remaining salmon.

  6. Make the Glaze:
    Carefully remove the foil with captured juices from the basket. Spoon the juices directly over the cooked salmon bites for a glossy glaze.

  7. Serve:
    Transfer salmon bites to a serving platter. Garnish with scallions and lemon wedges. Serve hot over rice, salad, or as finger food.

💡 Tips for Success

  • Pro Tip: How to Remove Salmon Skin – Place fillet skin-side down. Starting from the tail end, slide a sharp knife between the skin and flesh while pulling the skin taut with a paper towel. This keeps cuts clean and prevents wasting meat.

  • Cook in batches for even caramelization—overcrowding will steam the salmon instead of crisping it.

  • For an extra caramelized finish, broil the salmon bites for 1–2 minutes after air frying.

📊 Nutrition Facts (per serving, 6 servings)

  • Calories: 365

  • Protein: 33g

  • Fat: 20g

  • Saturated Fat: 7g

  • Cholesterol: 90mg

  • Sodium: 700mg

  • Carbohydrates: 17g

  • Sugar: 14g

(Approximate, based on a 6-ounce portion with glaze.)

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