Go Back
Golden crispy air fryer salmon bites served on a white plate with lemon wedges, fresh herbs, and a dipping sauce in a bright kitchen setting.

Crispy Air Fryer Salmon Bites Recipe

If you’re looking for something quick, crispy, and super tasty, these Crispy Air Fryer Salmon Bites are your go-to snack or meal! They’re perfect when you want crispy salmon bites without all the oil. Using an air fryer keeps things light and healthy—ideal for anyone following a low-carb, dairy-free, or gluten-free (if you skip the panko) diet. Ready in just 10 minutes, these bites are easy, delicious, and a total game-changer for your meal lineup. Let’s get cooking!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time:10 minutes
Cook Time:10 minutes
Total Time:20 minutes
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: American
Servings: 4 Serving
Calories: 250kcal
Cost: $3 per serving

Equipment

  • Air Fryer Essential for cooking the salmon bites to get that crispy texture without using much oil
  • Mixing Bowl To toss and coat the salmon cubes with olive oil, seasonings, and breadcrumbs (if using)
  • Tongs Handy for placing and flipping the salmon bites in the air fryer basket, ensuring they stay intact

Ingredients

  • 1 Lb Salmon Fillet Skinless, Cut into Bite-Sized Cubes
  • 1 Tbsp Olive Oil
  • 1 Tsp Garlic Powder
  • 1 Tsp Paprika For A Smoky Kick
  • ½ Tsp Salt
  • ½ Tsp Black Pepper
  • ½ Cup Panko Breadcrumbs Optional for Extra Crunch

Instructions

  • 1. Preheat the Air Fryer
  • Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready for action. Preheating ensures the salmon gets crispy right away. It should take about 3-5 minutes.
    An air fryer preheating to 375°F with the display showing the temperature and a timer counting down.
  • 2. Prepare the Salmon
  • In a mixing bowl, toss the 1 Lb Salmon Fillet that cut into the salmon cubes with 1 Tbsp Olive Oil, 1 Tsp Garlic Powder, 1 Tsp Paprika, ½ Tsp Salt, and½ Tsp Black Pepper. Make sure every piece gets coated well. If you like extra crunch, add the ½ Cup Panko Breadcrumbs and mix until everything sticks. It’s all about getting those flavors in!
    1 Lb Salmon Fillet, 1 Tbsp Olive Oil, 1 Tsp Garlic Powder, 1 Tsp Paprika, ½ Tsp Salt, ½ Tsp Black Pepper, ½ Cup Panko Breadcrumbs
    Salmon cubes being tossed with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl.
  • 3. Arrange the Salmon Bites in the Air Fryer
  • Lightly spray the air fryer basket with Cooking Spray. Place the salmon cubes in a single layer. Don’t overcrowd them—give each piece space so the air can circulate properly. This makes sure they come out crispy.
    Salmon bites being placed in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring enough space between each piece.
  • 4. Cook the Salmon Bites
  • Cook for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. You want them golden brown on the outside and juicy on the inside. If you prefer a crispier bite, let them cook for an extra 1-2 minutes, but keep an eye on them!
    Golden salmon bites cooking in the air fryer, with the basket being shaken halfway through the cooking time.
  • 5. Check Doneness
  • Once the cooking time is up, take a piece out and check if it flakes easily with a fork. The outside should be crispy, and the inside tender. If it’s too pink, cook for another minute.
    A hand flaking a salmon bite with a fork to check if it’s crispy on the outside and tender inside.
  • 6. Serve Your Crispy Salmon Bites
  • Remove the salmon bites and serve them right away. They taste best when fresh and hot. You can enjoy them as a snack with your favorite dipping sauce, toss them into a salad, or make salmon tacos. The choice is yours!
    Golden crispy salmon bites served on a white plate with lemon wedges and dipping sauce in a bright kitchen.

Notes

Tips for the Best Salmon Bites:

  • Dry the Salmon: Pat the salmon pieces with a paper towel before seasoning. This helps everything stick better and gets them crispier!
  • Shake the Basket: Shaking halfway through makes sure all sides cook evenly. No one likes soggy salmon!
  • Experiment with Seasonings: Try Lemon Herb or Spicy Cajun for a twist. Play around with flavors!

Nutritional Info:

These bites are low in carbs and high in protein. They’re perfect if you’re looking for a light, healthy option without dairy. If you need a gluten-free version, simply skip the Panko Breadcrumbs.
QR Code linking back to recipe