Air Fryer Salmon Bites with Garlic Recipe

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

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

• 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

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.

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

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

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Other Fish Recipes You'll Love

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5 from 1 vote

Air Fryer Salmon Bites with Garlic Recipe

Dr. Nena Stefanovic

Upgrade your lunch or snack time with these flavorful and nutritious salmon bites - an easy-to-make recipe that you'll love.

Prep Time10 minutes mins

Cook Time12 minutes mins

Total Time22 minutes mins

Course: Air Fryer, Appetizer, Main Course, Side Dish, Snack

Cuisine: American

Servings: 3 people

Calories: 394kcal

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Ingredients

 

1x2x3x

• ▢ 1 lb salmon fresh fillet
• ▢ 1 cup breadcrumbs Panko
• ▢ ¼ cup Parmesan grated
• ▢ 1 tablespoon parsley fresh, chopped
• ▢ 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ▢ ½ teaspoon paprika
• ▢ salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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 fry for 8 to 12 minutes, flipping or shaking halfway through, until golden and cooked through.
• Once cooked, remove the salmon bites from the air fryer, squeeze fresh lemon juice on top, and serve immediately.

Notes

• The nutrition information provided is an estimate. It will vary based on the specific ingredients used. 
• 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.
•  

Nutrition

Calories: 394kcal | Carbohydrates: 27g | Protein: 38g | Fat: 14g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 5g | Monounsaturated Fat: 4g | Cholesterol: 89mg | Sodium: 465mg | Potassium: 846mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 402IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 186mg | Iron: 3mg

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