Ready for a lunch upgrade? These Hot Honey Air Fryer Salmon Bites are the answer. With their tender texture and sweet-spicy glaze, they pair seamlessly with rice bowls, salads, or tacos. Plus, they’re quick to make, perfect for those busy weekdays.
- Cuisine: American
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes
- Total Time: 17 minutes
- Servings: 4
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy: Cooks in under 20 minutes.
- No mess: The air fryer simplifies cleanup.
- Nutrient-rich: A healthy protein option for a balanced meal.
- Versatile: Easily pairs with various dishes and flavors.
Ingredients
- 2 Salmon filets, chopped into cubes (392 g): Provides a nutritious, protein-rich base. Use fresh or sustainably sourced frozen salmon for the best results.
- 2 tsp Hot honey (10 g): Adds a sweet-spicy glaze. If unavailable, mix 1 teaspoon of honey with a pinch of chili flakes.
- 1/4 tsp Kosher salt: Enhances the salmon’s natural flavors. Sea salt can work in its place.
- 1/4 tsp Garlic powder: Imparts a subtle, savory depth. Substitute with a 1/2 teaspoon of fresh minced garlic if preferred.
- 1/8 tsp Paprika: Lends a mild smokiness. Smoked paprika can bring additional depth.
- Pinch of black pepper: A touch of heat and flavor. Freshly ground for the best aroma.
- 1 tsp Olive oil (5 g): Assists in browning and adds moisture. Substitute with avocado oil if desired.
How to Make It
Step 1: Prepare the Salmon
If using frozen salmon, ensure it is fully thawed by placing it in the fridge overnight or submerged in a bowl of cold water for about 30 minutes. Once ready, pat the salmon dry with paper towels to ensure a crisp texture when cooked. Chop the salmon into uniform bite-sized cubes for even cooking.
Step 2: Preheat the Air Fryer
Set your air fryer to 400 degrees F. Preheating ensures that the salmon starts cooking immediately upon entering, helping achieve the perfect combination of crispy exterior and tender interior.
Step 3: Season the Salmon
In a mixing bowl, drizzle the cubed salmon with hot honey. Evenly sprinkle the garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper over the salmon, ensuring a uniform coat. This step enhances flavor throughout every bite.
Step 4: Air Fry the Salmon
Lightly spray the seasoned salmon with olive oil spray; this promotes a golden finish. Lay the salmon cubes in the preheated air fryer basket in a single layer to ensure even cooking. Cook at 400 degrees F for 5 to 7 minutes or until the salmon reaches your desired doneness, with a slightly firm texture and opaque color.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
These salmon bites are versatile. Serve them on rice bowls, salads, or tucked into tacos and wraps. We love pairing them with rice, cucumbers, carrots, avocado, and a drizzle of sriracha mayo for a balanced meal.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use a regular oven instead of an air fryer?
Yes, bake the salmon bites at 425 degrees F for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even cooking. The result won’t be as crisp but will still be delicious.
What can I serve with these salmon bites?
Try them over a bed of rice or quinoa, with a side of roasted vegetables, or tucked into a warm tortilla for an easy salmon taco. They also complement a fresh greens salad well.
How do I store leftovers?
Place any leftovers in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to two days. Reheat in the air fryer for about 3 minutes for the best texture before serving.
