Name: Air Fryer Salmon Bites
Prep time: 4 min
Cook time: 6 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb salmon fillets (about four 4-oz salmon fillets); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste); 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon smoked or sweet paprika; 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme; 1/4 teaspoon dried cayenne pepper; 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper (or more to taste); Lemon wedges, for serving; Chopped parsley, for garnish (optional)

Why You’ll Love Air Fryer Salmon Bites Recipe

Ready in just 10 minutes from start to finish
Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside
Packed with bold, savory spices
Perfect for meal prep, bowls, tacos, or quick dinners
Easy cleanup thanks to the air fryer
Naturally high in protein and healthy fats

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 lb salmon fillets (about four 4-oz salmon fillets)
1 tablespoon olive oil
½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon smoked or sweet paprika
½ teaspoon dried thyme
¼ teaspoon dried cayenne pepper
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper (or more to taste)
Lemon wedges

Optional serving ideas:
Deliciously crispy Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts
Steamed broccoli
Chopped parsley
Brown rice
Air Fryer Baked Potatoes
Cajun seasoning, seasoned salt, garlic salt, taco seasoning, or Italian seasoning for flavor variations

Directions

If needed, preheat your air fryer to 400°F. Skip this step if your model does not require preheating.
Remove the skin from the salmon and cut it into 1-inch chunks. Place the pieces in a medium mixing bowl.
Drizzle the salmon with olive oil. Sprinkle with salt, garlic powder, paprika, thyme, cayenne pepper, and black pepper. Toss gently until evenly coated.
Lightly coat the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Arrange the salmon bites in a single layer, leaving space between each piece for even cooking. Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray.
Cook for 5–8 minutes, depending on your air fryer. Six minutes is typically perfect for tender, flaky salmon.
Serve immediately with lemon wedges, steamed vegetables, or your favorite sauces such as ranch or tartar sauce.
If you enjoyed this recipe, leave a comment and review to share your experience.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 4 minutes
Cook time: 6 minutes
Total time: 10 minutes

Variations

Spicy Cajun: Swap the listed spices for Cajun seasoning for a bold, smoky kick.
Garlic lovers: Use garlic salt or extra garlic powder for deeper flavor.
Taco style: Season with taco seasoning and serve in tortillas with slaw and avocado.
Italian herb: Replace thyme and paprika with Italian seasoning for a Mediterranean twist.
Honey glaze: Drizzle lightly with honey before cooking for a sweet-savory balance.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover salmon bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To reheat, place them back in the air fryer at 350°F for 2–3 minutes until warmed through. You can also reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat. Avoid microwaving for too long, as it can dry out the salmon.

For freezing, store cooled salmon bites in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, but thaw it completely and pat it dry before seasoning to ensure even cooking and crispiness.

Do I need to remove the salmon skin?

Removing the skin helps the bites cook evenly, but you can leave it on if preferred.

How do I know when the salmon is done?

The salmon should flake easily with a fork and reach an internal temperature of 145°F.

Can I make this without preheating the air fryer?

Yes, though preheating helps achieve a slightly crispier exterior.

What sauces pair well with salmon bites?

Ranch dressing, tartar sauce, garlic aioli, honey mustard, or a squeeze of fresh lemon all work beautifully.

Can I cook these in the oven instead?

Yes. Bake at 400°F for about 10–12 minutes, or until cooked through.

Why are my salmon bites dry?

They may have been overcooked. Reduce the cooking time slightly and check early.

Can I use other seasonings?

Absolutely. Try Cajun seasoning, lemon pepper, taco seasoning, or Italian herbs.

Are these good for meal prep?

Yes, they store and reheat well, making them great for lunches and grain bowls.

Can I add vegetables to the air fryer at the same time?

Yes, but ensure they have similar cooking times and avoid overcrowding the basket.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Salmon Bites are a fast, flavorful, and versatile meal that fits perfectly into busy schedules. With a crispy exterior, tender interior, and endless seasoning options, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite for easy dinners, meal prep, or healthy snacking.