Air Fryer Salmon Bites with Garlic Recipe

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This air fryer salmon bites recipe is one of the easiest ways to make crispy, flavorful garlic salmon in under 20 minutes.

Air Fryer Salmon Bites with Garlic served on a plate with brown rice.

Recipe Summary

✅ Recipe Name: Air Fryer Salmon Bites with Garlic
🕒 Prep Time: 22 minutes
🧑‍🧒‍🧒 Serves: 3 people
🍽️ Calories: 394 kcal
🥣 Ingredients: Salmon filet, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, fresh parsley, garlic powder, paprika, salt & pepper.
👏 Why You'll Love It: Simple ingredients, quick & easy, homemade.

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Tender salmon cubes are coated in a simple garlic and Parmesan mixture, then air fried until golden on the outside and juicy on the inside. It's a healthy, high-protein option that works for busy weeknights, meal prep, or even as a kid-friendly appetizer.

In my house, even my kids were happy to eat them. They might have reminded them a little of their favorite chicken nuggets that I like making in my air fryer.

If you love salmon, be sure to try my Almond Flour Crusted Salmon and my Air Fryer Maple Salmon.

Why You'll Love This Air Fryer Salmon Bites Recipe

🌾 Made with simple, wholesome ingredients.
⏱️ Quick and easy: done in 22 minutes!
👏 Crispy without deep frying. Yay!
🍴 Easy to customize with your favorite seasonings

Key Nutrition and Health Benefits of Salmon

Rich in omega-3 fatty acids: Salmon is one of the best food sources of long-chain omega-3 fats (EPA and DHA), which the body cannot make on its own. These fats help support heart health, reduce inflammation, and support brain function.
High in quality protein: salmon is an excellent source of high-quality protein. Protein helps repair tissues, support muscle mass, and maintain important body functions.
Good source of vitamin D: Salmon naturally contains vitamin D, a nutrient many people don't get enough of. Vitamin D is important for bone health, immune function, and overall well-being.

Ingredients You'll Need

Air Fryer Salmon Bites with Garlic, Ingredients.

Fresh salmon fillets, skin removed and cut into bite-size cubes
Panko breadcrumbs for crunch
Grated Parmesan cheese
Garlic powder or finely minced fresh garlic
Paprika for mild warmth and color
Salt and black pepper
Fresh parsley for brightness
Olive oil or avocado oil spray
Lemon wedges for serving

How to Make Air Fryer Salmon Bites

Air Fryer Salmon Bites with Garlic, cut salmon into bites.

Step 1: Start by preparing the salmon. Remove the skin and any bones, then cut the fillets into bite-sized pieces. Pat them dry with paper towels so they are as dry as possible.

Air Fryer Salmon Bites with Garlic, mix breadcrumbs, garlic powder, parmesan, parsley, and spices.

Step 2: In a shallow bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, parsley, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. This mixture adds great flavor and a crispy texture to the salmon bites.

Air Fryer Salmon Bites with Garlic, add salmon bites to spices mix.

Step 3: Add the salmon bites to the bowl with the seasoning mixture. Lightly spray the salmon with olive oil, or use avocado oil or your preferred cooking spray.

Air Fryer Salmon Bites with Garlic, mix salmon bites and spices until well coated.

Step 4: Dip each piece of salmon into the breadcrumb mixture until fully coated on all sides. Gently press the crumbs onto the salmon so they stick well.

Air Fryer Salmon Bites with Garlic, preheat air fryer and bake until salmon bites are golden.

Step 5: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes. Preheating helps the salmon bites cook evenly and become crispy on the outside. Cooking times and temperatures may vary depending on your air fryer. I used a Ninja Air Fryer. Arrange the salmon bites in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding.

Air Fryer Salmon Bites with Garlic, shake the basket half way through cooking.

Step 6: Air fry for 8 to 12 minutes, flipping or shaking halfway through, until golden and cooked through.

Air Fryer Salmon Bites with Garlic, cook until golden brown on all sides.

Step 7: Once cooked, remove the salmon bites from the air fryer, squeeze fresh lemon juice on top, and serve immediately.

Tips for the Best Air Fryer Salmon Bites

Cut salmon into evenly sized cubes so they cook at the same rate.
Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket.
For extra crispiness, lightly spray the bites with oil halfway through cooking.
Use a meat thermometer if needed. Salmon is done at 145°F.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when air fried salmon is done?

Salmon should reach 145°F (63°C) internally and flake easily.

Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes. Thaw fully and pat dry before coating for best results.

Storage and Reheating

Avoid microwaving if possible, as it softens the coating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3 to 4 minutes to restore crispiness

Air Fryer Salmon Bites with Garlic with brown rice.

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