Name: 30-Minute Air Fryer Salmon Bites with Hot Honey Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 lb salmon fillet, skin removed; 2 Tbsp neutral oil (grapeseed oil, avocado oil, or canola oil); ¾ cup panko breadcrumbs; 2 tsp granulated garlic; 2 tsp Italian seasoning; 1 tsp sweet paprika; 1 tsp Kosher salt; ½ tsp dry mustard; ¼ tsp cayenne pepper; ½ cup (8 Tbsp) unsalted butter; ¼ cup Mike’s Hot Honey or other hot honey; 1 tsp cayenne pepper; 1 tsp garlic powder; ½ tsp chili powder; ½ tsp Kosher salt; ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper

Jump to Recipe· 4.4 from 1 review

If you love salmon but crave something quick, crispy, and bursting with flavor, then this 30-Minute Air Fryer Salmon Bites with Hot Honey Recipe is about to become your new best friend in the kitchen. These salmon bites are perfectly crunchy on the outside and tender on the inside, featuring a sweet and spicy hot honey sauce that adds an irresistible kick. Whether you’re whipping up a speedy weeknight dinner, a tasty appetizer, or a flavorful protein addition to a salad or rice bowl, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality results without any fuss.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A round white plate filled with many small, fresh salmon pieces, each piece showing bright orange color with light white lines running through it like waves, placed on a white marbled surface, showing the vibrant and smooth texture of the fish. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This recipe calls for simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together beautifully to create layers of flavor and texture. Each component plays a crucial role: the panko adds crunch, the spices bring warmth and depth, and the hot honey sauce ties everything together with the perfect balance of sweet heat.

2 lb salmon fillet, skin removed: Fresh salmon is the star here, tender and flaky for perfect bite-size pieces.
2 Tbsp neutral oil (grapeseed, avocado, or canola): Helps the breading crisp up nicely without overpowering the salmon’s natural flavor.
¾ cup panko breadcrumbs: Provides that light, airy crunch that makes these bites irresistible.
2 tsp granulated garlic: Adds a savory aromatic punch.
2 tsp Italian seasoning: A flavorful herb blend that complements the salmon beautifully.
1 tsp sweet paprika: Gives warmth and a hint of sweetness.
1 tsp Kosher salt: Enhances and balances the overall flavors.
½ tsp dry mustard: Introduces a subtle tang for depth.
¼ tsp cayenne pepper: Just enough to add a mild warming heat.
½ cup unsalted butter: For the luxurious base of the hot honey sauce.
¼ cup Mike’s Hot Honey or other hot honey: The sweet and spicy star that makes the sauce unforgettable.
1 tsp cayenne pepper (for the sauce): Boosts the spicy kick.
1 tsp garlic powder: Elevates the sauce’s flavor with a gentle garlic note.
½ tsp chili powder: Adds smoky complexity.
½ tsp Kosher salt (for the sauce): Balances the sauce perfectly.
¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper: Offers a mild heat and bite to finish.

How to Make 30-Minute Air Fryer Salmon Bites with Hot Honey Recipe

Step 1: Cube and Prepare the Salmon

Start by cutting your salmon fillet into even bite-sized cubes, about 1 to 1.5 inches each. For best results, you can follow a quick 10-15 minute cure method to enhance the texture and flavor, but if time is tight, simply cubing and seasoning is enough. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (191°C) or your oven to 400°F (204°C) to get ready for cooking.

Step 2: Mix the Breading

In a large bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs with granulated garlic, Italian seasoning, sweet paprika, Kosher salt, dry mustard, and cayenne pepper. This flavorful mixture ensures every bite has a golden, crispy crust infused with aromatic spices.

Step 3: Coat the Salmon Bites

Drizzle the cubed salmon with neutral oil and toss it well to lightly coat every piece. Then add the salmon cubes into the breadcrumb mixture and gently toss again until each bite is thoroughly coated in that delicious, crunchy coating.

Step 4: Air Fry or Bake the Salmon

Transfer the coated salmon bites to the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure there is some space between each to crisp evenly. Air fry them at 375°F (191°C) for about 8 minutes, flipping once halfway. If you’re using an oven, arrange the bites on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 400°F (204°C) for 10-12 minutes until golden and cooked through.

Step 5: Prepare the Hot Honey Sauce

While the salmon cooks, heat unsalted butter in a small saucepan over medium-high heat. Add Mike’s Hot Honey, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, chili powder, Kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Stir consistently until the butter is fully melted and the spices release their tempting aroma. This vibrant sauce will elevate your salmon bites to another level.

Step 6: Toss and Serve

Once cooked, transfer the crispy salmon bites to a large bowl and drizzle generously with the hot honey sauce. Toss gently to coat each piece evenly for that perfect blend of texture and flavor.

How to Serve 30-Minute Air Fryer Salmon Bites with Hot Honey Recipe

The image shows a close-up of golden-brown crispy chicken pieces coated with a shiny reddish-orange sauce that gives them a slightly glossy look. Each piece has a crunchy texture with visible seasoning specks on the surface. These chicken pieces are piled together in a white bowl with some fresh green parsley leaves scattered around for garnish. To the left edge of the bowl is a white dipping sauce with green herbs sprinkled on top. The entire dish rests on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like chopped parsley, cilantro, or even thinly sliced green onions brighten up the plate and add a lovely fresh contrast to the rich bites. A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or crushed red pepper flakes can add extra texture and heat if you’re feeling adventurous.

Side Dishes

These salmon bites work beautifully with simple sides like steamed jasmine rice, quinoa salad, or a crisp green salad with citrus vinaigrette. Mashed sweet potatoes or roasted seasonal veggies pair wonderfully for a heartier meal that’s still balanced and fresh.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the salmon bites over a base of mixed greens or creamy avocado slices for an inviting, colorful display. They also shine as a shareable appetizer on a platter with dipping sauces like ranch or a cool yogurt-based dressing to offset the spicy-sweet heat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover salmon bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To maintain crunchiness, avoid covering them in sauce until ready to reheat and serve.

Freezing

You can freeze uncooked coated salmon bites by arranging them on a sheet tray and freezing until solid, then transferring to a freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month. When ready, cook directly from frozen at the recommended temperature, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.

Reheating

Reheat the salmon bites in a 350°F air fryer or oven for about 4-5 minutes to bring back their crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it tends to make them soggy. Reapply the hot honey sauce after reheating for maximum flavor.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes! Just make sure to thaw the salmon completely and pat it dry before cubing and coating. This helps the breading stick better and keeps the salmon bites crispy after cooking.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, simply swap the panko breadcrumbs for a gluten-free alternative or crushed gluten-free crackers. The rest of the recipe is naturally gluten-free!

Can I adjust the spice level of the hot honey sauce?

Absolutely! Feel free to reduce the cayenne pepper and chili powder or add extra hot honey if you prefer a milder or sweeter sauce. It’s all about tailoring the heat to your taste buds.

Can I bake these salmon bites instead of air frying?

Yes, baking at 400°F (204°C) for 10-12 minutes works perfectly if you don’t have an air fryer. Just make sure to keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.

What’s the best way to serve leftovers?

Leftover salmon bites are fantastic tossed into salads, crumbled over grain bowls, or tucked into wraps for quick lunches. They maintain their flavor and texture well with reheating.

Final Thoughts

This 30-Minute Air Fryer Salmon Bites with Hot Honey Recipe is such a joy to make and even more delightful to eat. It’s a fuss-free, flavorful way to enjoy salmon that’s crispy, tender, and bursting with sweet and spicy goodness. I promise once you try it, this recipe will become a go-to for fast, impressive meals that everyone will rave about.