These salmon bites are quick, sticky, a little sweet, and packed with flavor. You toss everything together, air fry it, then drizzle with a garlicky honey glaze that’s finger-licking good. Perfect for weeknights when you’re craving something fast but a little fancy.
Why I Love This Recipe
This one’s always in my weeknight rotation. It was born from one of those “what can I make in 15 minutes?” moments, and now I make it constantly. It’s simple, tastes like takeout but healthier, and makes you look like you tried way harder than you did.
- Comes together in under 20 minutes
- Sticky, garlicky, sweet-and-savory flavor bomb
- Air fryer = fast, crispy edges
- Great with rice, noodles, or just on its own
- You can prep everything ahead
What You’ll Need
- 2 salmon fillets (about 1 pound total), skin removed and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon water (for slurry)
- Optional: sesame seeds and chopped green onions for topping
Servings and Time
- Serves: 2
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 8 minutes
Pro Tips
- Make sure the salmon is patted dry before seasoning—it helps it crisp up
- Don’t crowd the air fryer; cook in batches if needed
- Warm the glaze slightly before drizzling so it spreads better
- Toss the bites in glaze right before serving to keep them crispy
- Add a dash of chili flakes for heat
Tools Required
- Air fryer
- Small saucepan
- Mixing bowls
- Tongs or silicone spatula
- Whisk
Substitutions and Variations
- Use maple syrup instead of honey for a different sweetness
- Try tamari or coconut aminos for gluten-free
- Add chili oil for a spicy version
- Swap salmon for tofu or chicken (adjust cook time)
Make Ahead Tips
- Mix the sauce ingredients up to 3 days in advance and refrigerate
- Cube the salmon and store in the fridge, ready to season and cook
Recipe + Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Salmon
In a mixing bowl, combine 2 salmon fillets (cut into 1-inch cubes) with 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
Step 2: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat the air fryer to 400°F. Lightly spray or brush the basket with oil to keep the salmon from sticking.
Step 3: Air Fry the Salmon
Place salmon cubes in a single layer in the preheated air fryer basket. Air fry at 400°F for 7–8 minutes, shaking halfway through, until golden and slightly crisp.
Step 4: Make the Honey Garlic Glaze
In a small saucepan, combine 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 tablespoon honey, 1 tablespoon brown sugar, and 3 minced garlic cloves. Bring to a simmer over medium heat. In a small bowl, mix 1 teaspoon cornstarch with 1 tablespoon water to make a slurry. Stir slurry into the saucepan and cook for 1–2 minutes until thickened.
Step 4: Toss the Salmon in the Glaze
Transfer cooked salmon bites to a clean bowl. Pour the warm glaze over and toss gently to coat all pieces.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired. Serve hot, with rice or noodles.
Macros (per serving, serves 2)
- Calories: 390
- Protein: 32g
- Carbs: 16g
- Fat: 22g
- Sugar: 12g
- Fiber: 0g
Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
Air frying gives you a crisp exterior without drying out the salmon inside. The glaze thickens thanks to the cornstarch slurry, which helps it cling to each bite. Garlic, soy, and honey hit all the flavor notes—sweet, salty, and umami.
Common Mistakes
- Not drying the salmon: Water prevents crisping
- Overcooking: Salmon dries out fast—7–8 minutes is enough
- Glaze too thick or thin: Measure your cornstarch and water for the perfect consistency
- Crowding the air fryer: That steams instead of crisps
What to Serve With
- Steamed white or jasmine rice
- Stir-fried broccoli or green beans
- Noodles tossed in sesame oil
- Asian-style slaw for crunch
- Cucumber salad with vinegar
FAQ
Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, just thaw it fully and pat dry before cooking.
Can I bake instead of air fry?
Totally. Bake at 400°F for 12–14 minutes.
How do I know it’s done?
The salmon should flake easily with a fork and be opaque in the center.
Is this spicy?
Nope, but you can add chili flakes or sriracha if you want heat.
Leftovers & Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer or a skillet to keep them crispy. Avoid microwaving—it softens the texture.
Final Thoughts
These air fryer honey garlic salmon bites are proof that a fast dinner can still be totally crave-worthy. The glaze alone is worth keeping in your back pocket. Try it, love it, and come back to tell me how it went—I’d love to hear your twist on it too.