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Air Fryer Honey Garlic Salmon Bites Recipe

4.8 from 104 reviews

Delicious and easy-to-make Air Fryer Honey Garlic Salmon Bites featuring tender salmon cubes air fried to perfection and coated in a glossy, flavorful honey garlic sauce. This recipe offers a quick, healthy seafood dish with a sweet and savory glaze that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests.

Ingredients

Scale

Salmon

  • lbs salmon fillets (skin removed & cut into 1½-inch cubes)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • ¾ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika

Honey Garlic Sauce

  • ¼ cup honey
  • 3 tbsp soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • ½ tsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp water (optional, for thickening)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F and lightly grease the basket to prevent the salmon from sticking during cooking.
  2. Season the Salmon: Pat the salmon cubes dry with paper towels. Place them in a bowl, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Gently toss to coat the salmon cubes evenly without breaking them apart.
  3. Air Fry the Salmon: Arrange the seasoned salmon cubes in a single layer inside the air fryer basket, leaving some space between each piece. Air fry for 6 to 8 minutes, flipping the cubes halfway through cooking. The salmon should be lightly caramelized on the outside and cooked through.
  4. Prepare the Honey Garlic Sauce: While the salmon cooks, combine honey, soy sauce, unsalted butter, rice vinegar, and minced garlic in a small saucepan. Simmer over medium-low heat, stirring frequently until the sauce becomes smooth and glossy. If you prefer a thicker sauce, whisk the cornstarch mixed with water into the saucepan and simmer for an additional 30–60 seconds until slightly thickened.
  5. Toss and Serve: Transfer the hot cooked salmon cubes to a serving bowl. Pour the warm honey garlic sauce over the salmon and gently toss to coat evenly. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

  • Ensure the salmon cubes are dry before seasoning to achieve better caramelization in the air fryer.
  • Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches if needed to allow even cooking.
  • Adjust the honey garlic sauce thickness by adding or omitting the cornstarch slurry based on your preference.
  • This recipe is best served fresh, but leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
  • Use fresh garlic for optimal flavor in the sauce, or substitute with garlic powder in a pinch.

Keywords: air fryer salmon, honey garlic salmon, salmon bites, easy salmon recipe, quick seafood, air fryer seafood, healthy salmon bites, honey garlic sauce