Air Fryer Salmon Bites with Hot Honey are the perfect combination of crispy, tender salmon coated in a sweet and spicy hot honey glaze. With minimal prep and a quick cook time, this recipe makes for a delicious and healthy weeknight dinner or an impressive appetizer. The air fryer gives the salmon a crispy exterior while keeping it juicy inside, and the hot honey adds a flavorful kick that you’ll love!
Why You’ll Love These Air Fryer Salmon Bites with Hot Honey
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 20 minutes, this is the ultimate fast and flavorful meal.
- Healthy and Delicious: Packed with omega-3 fatty acids and a touch of sweetness, these salmon bites are both nutritious and satisfying.
- Perfectly Crispy: The air fryer gives the salmon a crispy texture without needing much oil.
Ingredients for Air Fryer Salmon Bites with Hot Honey
For the Salmon Bites:
- 1 lb salmon fillet, skinless, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
For the Hot Honey:
- ¼ cup honey
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce (adjust to your heat preference)
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
Tools You’ll Need
- Air fryer
- Mixing bowl
- Tongs
- Small saucepan (for the hot honey)
How to Make Air Fryer Salmon Bites with Hot Honey
Step 1: Season the Salmon
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
- In a mixing bowl, toss the salmon cubes with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Ensure the salmon is evenly coated with the seasoning.
Step 2: Air Fry the Salmon
- Place the salmon bites in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they’re not touching for even cooking.
- Cook the salmon bites at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are crispy on the outside and tender inside. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
Step 3: Make the Hot Honey
- While the salmon is cooking, heat the honey, hot sauce, apple cider vinegar, and red pepper flakes (if using) in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir for 2-3 minutes until well combined and heated through.
- Remove the hot honey from the heat and set aside.
Step 4: Toss and Serve
- Once the salmon bites are done, toss them in the hot honey or drizzle the honey over the top just before serving.
- Garnish with extra red pepper flakes or fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for added color and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve these spicy-sweet salmon bites with steamed rice, roasted vegetables, or a crisp salad for a balanced meal.
- They also make a fantastic appetizer when paired with dipping sauces like sriracha mayo or a creamy yogurt dip.
Tips for the Best Air Fryer Salmon Bites
- Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: For even cooking and crispy edges, make sure to cook the salmon bites in a single layer. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Adjust the Spice Level: Control the heat by adjusting the amount of hot sauce and cayenne pepper to suit your preference.
- Pat the Salmon Dry: For the crispiest bites, pat the salmon dry with paper towels before seasoning.
Storage Instructions
- Store any leftover salmon bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- To reheat, pop them back into the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-4 minutes to crisp them up again.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
A: Yes! Just be sure to thaw the salmon completely and pat it dry before cutting it into cubes.
Q2: Can I make the hot honey ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can make the hot honey up to 3 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature and simply warm it before serving.
Q3: Can I bake the salmon bites instead of using an air fryer?
A: Yes, you can bake them at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the salmon is cooked through and crispy on the outside.
Conclusion: A Sweet and Spicy Delight!
These Air Fryer Salmon Bites with Hot Honey are a fantastic way to enjoy a healthy, flavorful meal with minimal effort. The crispy salmon paired with the sweet heat of the hot honey glaze makes for an irresistible combination that’s sure to be a hit, whether you’re serving it for dinner or as a party appetizer.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 250
Protein: 25g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fat: 10g
Fiber: 1g
Enjoy every bite of this deliciously sweet and spicy salmon dish!
