Name: Air Fryer Salmon Bites Recipe
Prep time: 7 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Ingredients: 1 lb salmon fillets, skin removed and cut into bite-sized cubes; 2 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari/coconut aminos); 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp ginger, minced; 1 tsp sesame oil; 1 tsp olive oil (optional, for extra crispiness); Fresh lemon or lime wedges, for serving

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These air fryer salmon bites are my go-to when I want a quick, flavorful, and healthy meal that doesn’t skimp on taste. The sweet and savory soy-based marinade caramelizes beautifully in the air fryer, giving each piece a golden, slightly crispy exterior while keeping the inside melt-in-your-mouth tender. They’re perfect for a salmon bowl, on top of a salad, or even as an appetizer with a zesty dipping sauce.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it takes less than 15 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy days. The marinade infuses the salmon with a burst of flavor, and the air fryer gives it that irresistible crisp edge without drying it out. It’s also packed with protein, omega-3s, and healthy fats, so I feel good about enjoying it any day of the week. I like how versatile it is—sometimes I make it into a salmon bowl with rice and veggies, other times I toss it over noodles or serve it alongside a crunchy slaw. Air Fryer Salmon Bites Recipe

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Salmon fillets, skin removed and cut into bite-sized cubes
Soy sauce
Honey or maple syrup
Garlic, minced
Ginger, minced
Sesame oil
Olive oil (optional, for extra crispiness)
Fresh lemon or lime wedges (for serving)

Directions

I start by cutting the salmon into evenly sized cubes so they cook at the same rate.
In a bowl, I whisk together soy sauce, honey, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil to make the marinade.
I add the salmon pieces to the marinade, making sure each piece is coated, and let it sit for about 5–10 minutes while I preheat the air fryer.
I place the marinated salmon bites in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they aren’t touching.
I cook at 400°F (200°C) for 6–8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking.
I serve them immediately with rice, noodles, or vegetables, and a squeeze of fresh lemon or lime juice.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 2–3 people and takes about 12–15 minutes total, including 5–7 minutes for prep and 6–8 minutes for cooking.

Variations

Sometimes I make a spicy version by adding sriracha or chili paste to the marinade. For an Asian-inspired twist, I sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped green onions over the top before serving. I’ve also made a teriyaki-style version using a store-bought teriyaki sauce instead of the honey-soy mix, and it’s just as delicious.

storage/reheating

I store any leftover salmon bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, I pop them back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 2–3 minutes to warm them up without overcooking. I avoid microwaving because it can make the salmon dry.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, I can—if I’m using frozen salmon, I thaw it completely before marinating so the flavors absorb well.

Do I need to remove the skin before cooking?

I prefer to remove the skin for bite-sized pieces, but it’s fine to leave it on if I’m serving the salmon in larger chunks.

How do I keep the salmon from sticking to the basket?

I lightly spray the air fryer basket with oil before adding the salmon, which helps prevent sticking.

Can I make this recipe without soy sauce?

Yes, I can use tamari or coconut aminos as a soy-free alternative.

What sides go best with salmon bites?

I like to pair them with steamed rice, quinoa, roasted vegetables, or a light cucumber salad.

Conclusion

These air fryer salmon bites are one of my easiest and most satisfying meals. They’re flavorful, tender, and endlessly versatile, making them perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a quick appetizer. I love how the air fryer caramelizes the marinade into crispy little edges that keep me coming back for more. Whether I’m enjoying them in a bowl, on a salad, or straight from the basket, they never last long.