Air Fryer Salmon Bites Wholesome Yum

These are a fun way to start a party, but I also make these salmon bites in the air fryer when I’m simply too busy for a lengthy dinner — which is often. Every bite is pure bliss, and you’d never guess they took just 10 minutes!

Ingredients & Substitutions

Here I explain the best ingredients for air fried salmon bites, what each one does in the recipe, and substitution options. For measurements, see the recipe card.

Salmon – This recipe for air fryer salmon bites works with all kinds of salmon — king salmon, pink salmon, Atlantic salmon, sockeye salmon… you name it. It doesn’t matter if you get individual salmon fillets or one large piece (like I did), since we’ll be dicing it either way. If you want to make bites with another protein, try my garlic butter steak bites or chicken bites. Sea Salt & Black Pepper Honey – I prefer natural sugar-free honey, but regular honey works just as well. (I’ve tried both!) Coconut Aminos – This is my favorite soy sauce substitute for a combination of sweet and umami flavors. You can easily substitute low-sodium soy sauce or tamari if you like. Olive Oil – Avocado oil also works fine. Spices – A blend of smoked paprika, garlic powder, and warm ground ginger. Feel free to customize the spices to your liking.

How To Make Salmon Bites In The Air Fryer

This section shows how to make this air fryer salmon bites recipe, with step-by-step photos and details about the technique, to help you visualize it. For full instructions with amounts and temperatures, see the recipe card.

How Long To Cook Salmon Bites In The Air Fryer?

Air fry salmon bites for 5-7 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 135-140 degrees F for moist, flaky salmon or 145 degrees F for more firm salmon.

Flavor Variations

The honey garlic flavors in these little air fryer salmon nuggets are my absolute fave, but you can easily switch up the flavor with different marinade options. Here are some ideas:

Lemon Garlic Butter – Season with olive oil, lemon juice (you can also add zest), paprika, salt, and pepper. Air fry, then toss in melted compound butter. Simply irresistible! Teriyaki – Use 1/4 cup of your favorite teriyaki sauce to marinate the salmon bites. Maple – Just use my homemade salmon marinade! Blackened – Like a faster version of blackened salmon! Omit the spices, honey, and coconut aminos. Instead, combine 2 tablespoons of blackened seasoning with olive oil to coat the salmon bites with a bold smoky flavor. Cajun – Give your air fryer salmon bites a Southern kick by tossing them in a mix of 2 tablespoons of Cajun seasoning and olive oil. Jerk – For a Caribbean flair (similar to jerk salmon), marinate with 2 tablespoons of jerk seasoning blended with olive oil.

Storage Instructions

Store: Stack leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Meal prep: You can cut the salmon and make the marinade ahead of time. Store separately in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. I don’t recommend marinating for an extended period of time, as the salmon will turn mushy. Reheat: The best way is to reheat salmon bites in the air fryer at 300 degrees F (or the lowest temperature that your air fryer allows) for about 2 minutes. Since they are already crispy and golden, higher temperatures tend to burn the outside. Watch carefully to avoid drying out. Freeze: Place air fryer salmon bites in a freezer bag and store in the freezer for 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

What To Serve With Air Fryer Salmon Bites

These salmon bites work both as an appetizer and a light main dish if you pair them with the right sides. Here are a few ideas for serving them:

Veggies – Keep it simple with roasted vegetables, like broccoli or asparagus. You can also make your entire meal in the same appliance — try air fryer cauliflower or air fryer zucchini. Salad – Serve the salmon bites over a leafy kale salad, sweet mandarin orange salad, or filling sweet potato salad for a complete meal. Rice – For a satisfying meal, serve with a side of fluffy white rice or cauliflower rice. My personal fave way to use air fryer salmon bites is in a salmon bowl! Surf & Turf – Sometimes when I want a mini surf & turf appetizer or meal, I like to pair these salmon bites with sirloin steak tips. Dipping Sauces – Honestly, the honey marinade is so flavorful that you don’t need a sauce! But if you make one of the variations above, a sauce might be a nice addition. Try a drizzle of spicy mayo or dunk in garlic aioli.