Air Fryer Salmon Bites are little pieces of salmon that get perfectly crispy on the outside while staying tender and juicy inside. They’re quick to make and have a light, flaky texture with a hint of seasoning that makes every bite really satisfying. These bites are like a snack or appetizer that feels fancy but is actually super simple.
I love making these salmon bites when I want something tasty but don’t want to spend too much time cooking. Using the air fryer means I get that nice crunch without using a lot of oil, which makes the bites feel a bit lighter but still full of flavor. I usually season them with a little salt, pepper, and sometimes a squeeze of lemon after cooking—it just brightens everything up.
These salmon bites are great on their own as a quick snack, or you can toss them over a salad or serve them with your favorite dipping sauce for something extra. I like to share them with friends because they’re easy to eat and always get compliments. Plus, they make a weekday dinner feel a little special without any fuss.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillet is best for tenderness and flavor. If you can’t find fresh, thawed frozen salmon works well too. Wild-caught salmon has a richer taste, but farmed salmon is a budget-friendly option.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These add crispiness without heaviness. If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes make good substitutes but may be less airy.
Everything Bagel Seasoning: This seasoning blend gives a nice savory crunch. You can replace it with a mix of sesame seeds, dried garlic, onion flakes, poppy seeds, and salt if needed.
Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty, nutty flavor. Try Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free choice that still brings umami.
Dipping Sauce: Greek yogurt or sour cream keeps it creamy and fresh. For dairy-free, use a cashew or coconut-based dip, or simply enjoy the salmon bites plain.
How Do I Get the Crispiest Crust on Salmon Bites in the Air Fryer?
To get the perfect crunchy coating, the key is coating the salmon evenly and spacing the bites apart in the air fryer basket.
- Pat the salmon cubes dry before seasoning to help the coating stick better.
- Brush or toss the salmon with olive oil or melted butter – it helps the panko brown nicely.
- Use a light, even layer of the breadcrumb mix. Press gently to stick it to the fish but don’t overload it.
- Arrange salmon pieces in a single layer with space around them so hot air can circulate well.
- Flip the bites halfway through cooking for even browning on all sides.
Keep an eye near the end to avoid overcooking, as salmon can dry out quickly. These tips help you enjoy salmon bites with a crisp crust and moist center every time.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Air fryer – it crisps the salmon bites quickly without extra oil.
- Mixing bowls – handy for coating the salmon in breadcrumbs and seasoning.
- Tongs or a spatula – helps you flip the bites gently without breaking them.
- Measuring spoons – to get your seasonings just right.
- Sharp knife and cutting board – for cutting the salmon into even bites.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap salmon for cod or tilapia for a milder fish that still crisps well.
- Add smoked paprika or cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mix for a spicy kick.
- Mix chopped fresh dill or parsley into the coating or sprinkle on top for fresh herbal notes.
- Stir in lemon zest to the breadcrumb mix for a bright citrus flavor that pairs well with fish.
Air Fryer Salmon Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salmon Bites:
- 1 lb fresh salmon fillet, skin removed and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon everything bagel seasoning (or mix of sesame seeds, dried garlic, dried onion, poppy seeds, and sea salt)
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
- Fresh chopped chives or parsley, for garnish
- Optional: lemon wedges for serving
For the Dipping Sauce:
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 1 tablespoon fresh chopped chives
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll spend about 10 minutes preparing the salmon bites and the sauce, and then approximately 8-10 minutes cooking them in the air fryer. Overall, you can have this tasty dish ready in about 20 minutes – perfect for a quick snack or appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare Seasoning Mix:
Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for around 5 minutes. In a medium bowl, mix together panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, everything bagel seasoning, paprika, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. This will be your flavorful coating for the salmon.
2. Coat the Salmon Cubes:
Brush the salmon cubes with olive oil or melted butter to help the seasoning stick. Then gently toss them in the breadcrumb mixture, making sure each piece is evenly coated all around.
3. Air Fry the Salmon:
Place the salmon bites in a single layer inside the air fryer basket. Be sure not to crowd them, so they crisp nicely. Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 8 to 10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.
4. Make the Dipping Sauce and Serve:
While the salmon cooks, combine Greek yogurt, chopped chives, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Once the bites are done, transfer them to a plate, garnish with chopped chives or parsley, and serve immediately with the dipping sauce and lemon wedges if you like.
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to fully thaw the salmon in the refrigerator before cutting it into cubes. Pat it dry to remove excess moisture, which helps the coating stick better.
How Should I Store Leftover Salmon Bites?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat them gently in the air fryer or oven to maintain crispiness—avoid the microwave as it can make them soggy.
Can I Make These Salmon Bites Ahead of Time?
You can prep and coat the salmon cubes in advance, then refrigerate them for a few hours before cooking. For best results, air fry just before serving to keep the bites crispy and fresh.
What Are Some Good Dipping Sauces to Serve with Salmon Bites?
The Greek yogurt and chive sauce in the recipe is a classic, but you can also try tartar sauce, aioli, or a spicy sriracha mayo for a tasty twist!
