Air Fryer Salmon Bites
These Air Fryer Salmon Bites are crispy on the outside, tender and juicy on the inside, and ready in under 15 minutes. Made with simple seasonings and minimal oil, this easy air fryer salmon bites recipe is healthy, protein-packed, and perfect for bowls, salads, tacos, or quick weeknight dinners with almost no cleanup.
Ingredients
- 1 lb salmon fillets skinless, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Optional seasoning: Cajun taco seasoning, or lemon pepper
- Cooking spray for the air fryer basket
- Lemon wedges for serving
- Fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Pat salmon dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Cut into evenly sized 1-inch cubes and place in a bowl.
- Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and any optional seasoning. Toss gently to coat.
- Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3 minutes.
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
- Arrange salmon bites in a single layer, leaving space between pieces.
- Air fry for 7–9 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
- Remove when salmon is opaque, flaky, and lightly crisp on the edges.
- Rest for 1–2 minutes, then finish with lemon juice and herbs if desired.
Notes
- Drying the salmon is key for crisp edges.
- Avoid overcrowding the basket—cook in batches if needed.
- Salmon cooks quickly; check at the 7-minute mark to prevent dryness.