Air Fryer Salmon Bites
Air Fryer Salmon Bites are little pieces of tender, crispy salmon cooked to perfection. These bites have a great balance of flaky salmon inside with a lightly crunchy outside thanks…
By Ava
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Reading time: 6 min
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Air Fryer Salmon Bites are little pieces of tender, crispy salmon cooked to perfection. These bites have a great balance of flaky salmon inside with a lightly crunchy outside thanks to the air fryer. They’re a quick and tasty way to enjoy salmon without spending too much time in the kitchen.
I love making these salmon bites when I want a healthy snack or a simple appetizer. Using the air fryer means they cook fast and stay juicy, without the need for much oil. It’s one of those recipes I keep coming back to because it’s easy, quick, and super satisfying. Plus, they’re portable and perfect for dipping in your favorite sauce.
My favorite way to serve these salmon bites is with a squeeze of fresh lemon and a side of creamy tartar sauce. They also do great paired with a fresh salad or some steamed veggies for a light meal. I always tell friends to give these a try—they’re a sure-fire way to bring some salmon love to the table without fuss.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillet is best for tender bites. Wild-caught gives a richer flavor, but farmed works well if budget-friendly. If salmon isn’t available, try trout or cod for a mild fish option.
Panko Breadcrumbs: They add a light, crunchy coating. If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes are good substitutes. For gluten-free, try gluten-free panko or crushed nuts.
Parmesan Cheese: This adds a nice depth of taste but is optional. You can skip it or use nutritional yeast for a dairy-free alternative that still has a cheesy flavor.
Seasonings: Garlic powder, parsley, and smoked paprika give the bites a warm, herby kick. Feel free to swap smoked paprika for chili powder if you want a little heat.
Olive Oil or Melted Butter: Both help the coating crisp up in the air fryer. Olive oil is lighter and adds fruitiness, while butter brings richness. Use what you prefer.
How Do I Get Crispy Salmon Bites in the Air Fryer Without Drying Them Out?
Cooking salmon in an air fryer is quick, but it’s important to keep the fish moist inside while getting that crispy outside crust.
- Pat the salmon dry: Removing moisture before coating helps the breadcrumbs stick and crisp nicely.
- Don’t overcrowd: Arrange bites in a single layer so air can circulate well and cook each piece evenly.
- Use an egg wash: The egg helps the breadcrumb coating stick, giving a crisp texture after cooking.
- Cook at a high temperature (400°F): This cooks the bites quickly, ensuring the outside crisps before the inside dries.
- Shake the basket midway: This helps all sides brown evenly.
By following these steps, you get salmon bites that are crunchy on the outside, tender and juicy inside—perfect every time!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Air fryer – essential for crisping the salmon bites quickly with little oil.
- Mixing bowls – you’ll use one for the egg wash and another for the breadcrumb mix.
- Sharp knife – to cut the salmon into even bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
- Paper towels – great for patting dry the salmon to help the coating stick better.
- Tongs or a fork – to dip the salmon pieces without making a mess.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap salmon for cooked shrimp or firm white fish like cod for a different seafood twist.
- Add lemon zest or chopped dill to the breadcrumb mix for fresh, bright flavors.
- Mix in a pinch of cayenne or chili powder for a spicy kick.
- Try coating with crushed almonds or pecans instead of breadcrumbs for a nutty crunch.
How to Make Air Fryer Salmon Bites?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Salmon:
- 1 lb (450g) salmon fillet, skin removed and cut into bite-sized cubes
For The Coating:
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried parsley or 1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
- ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 large egg
- 1 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
For Garnish and Serving:
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
- Optional dipping sauce (e.g., tartar sauce, ranch, or garlic aioli)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for prep and 8-10 minutes for cooking in the air fryer. In total, expect around 20 minutes from start to finish—quick and easy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Get the Air Fryer Ready:
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. This helps ensure the salmon bites cook evenly and get nice and crispy.
2. Prepare the Coating Mixture:
In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese (if using), garlic powder, dried parsley, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir well so the flavors mix evenly.
3. Make the Egg Wash:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg and olive oil or melted butter. This will help the breadcrumb mix stick to the salmon cubes.
4. Coat the Salmon Bites:
Pat the salmon cubes dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture—this helps the coating stick better. Dip each salmon piece into the egg mixture, then roll it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to make sure it’s well coated.
5. Air Fry the Salmon Bites:
Arrange the coated salmon bites in a single layer in the air fryer basket without overlapping (cook in batches if needed). Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to cook evenly. They should be golden brown and cooked through.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Carefully remove the salmon bites from the air fryer. Garnish them with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately with lemon wedges and your favorite dipping sauce.
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon, but make sure to fully thaw it in the refrigerator before preparing. Pat it dry to remove excess moisture so the coating sticks well and the bites crisp up nicely.
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 oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to keep them crispy.
Can I Make These Salmon Bites Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can coat the salmon bites and keep them refrigerated for a few hours before cooking. Just air fry them fresh when ready for the best crispiness.
What Can I Serve with Air Fryer Salmon Bites?
These bites are great with lemon wedges and dipping sauces like tartar sauce, garlic aioli, or ranch. They also pair well with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.