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Crispy Air Fryer Salmon Bites

Crispy Air Fryer Salmon Bites

These Crispy Air Fryer Salmon Bites are a quick and delicious seafood appetizer with a crunchy exterior and tender salmon inside. Ready in just 15 minutes, they deliver a flavorful, healthy snack or light meal prepared easily using an air fryer for a perfect golden crisp without deep frying.

Ingredients

Scale

Salmon

  • Fresh skinless, boneless salmon fillet, cut into 1-inch cubes (about 1 pound)

Coating

  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt, to taste (about 1/2 teaspoon)
  • Black pepper, to taste (about 1/4 teaspoon)

To Cook

  • Olive oil spray

Instructions

  1. Prep the Salmon: Cut fresh salmon into bite-sized 1-inch cubes to ensure even cooking and tenderness. Pat the pieces dry carefully with paper towels to remove excess moisture and help achieve better crispness.
  2. Mix the Coating: In a shallow bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. This mixture creates a flavorful, crunchy coating for the salmon bites.
  3. Coat the Salmon Bites: Lightly spray the salmon cubes with olive oil to help the breadcrumb mixture adhere. Toss the salmon pieces in the breadcrumb mixture until each piece is evenly coated on all sides.
  4. Air Fry to Perfection: Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the coated salmon bites in a single layer in the air fryer basket without overcrowding. Air fry for 8 to 10 minutes, shaking or flipping them halfway through cooking, until golden brown and crispy.
  5. Serve and Enjoy: Remove the salmon bites from the air fryer and let them rest for a minute to retain juiciness and crunch before serving.

Notes

  • Use fresh, high-quality salmon for the best flavor and texture.
  • Patting salmon dry before coating helps breadcrumbs stick better and promotes crispiness.
  • Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket; cook in batches if needed for even browning.
  • Use olive oil spray lightly to aid crispiness without adding excess oil.
  • Customize breadcrumbs with gluten-free options or add spices/herbs like cayenne, dill, or lemon zest for variety.
  • Reheat bites in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes to restore crispness; avoid microwaving.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; freeze uncooked bites for up to 1 month.

Nutrition

Keywords: salmon bites, air fryer salmon, crispy salmon bites, appetizer, seafood snack, gluten free snack