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Easy Crispy Garlic Butter Salmon Bites in Air Fryer

crispy garlic butter salmon bites air fryer - featured image

These crispy garlic butter salmon bites are the perfect quick and easy weeknight dinner. Ready in under 15 minutes, they feature shatteringly crispy edges and tender, flaky salmon coated in a rich garlic butter sauce.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb (450g) salmon fillets, skinless
  • 3 tbsp (42g) unsalted butter, melted
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp fine sea salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper, freshly ground
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
  • Lemon wedges (for serving, optional)

Instructions

  1. Pat the salmon dry with paper towels. This is crucial for crispiness.
  2. Cut the salmon into bite-sized cubes, about 1 to 1.5 inches each.
  3. In a small microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter in 15-second intervals. Stir in the minced garlic and let it sit for 1 minute.
  4. In a medium mixing bowl, combine paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Add the cubed salmon and toss gently to coat evenly with the dry seasonings.
  5. Pour the melted garlic butter over the seasoned salmon and toss gently until every piece is coated.
  6. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3 minutes.
  7. Arrange the salmon bites in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving space between each piece. Do not overcrowd.
  8. Air fry at 400°F for 8 minutes. Carefully flip each piece using tongs, then cook for another 2-4 minutes until golden and crispy. Internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
  9. Remove from the air fryer and let rest for 2 minutes. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve immediately with lemon wedges.

Notes

Don’t skip patting the salmon dry—moisture prevents crispiness. For extra crunch, cook the full 10 minutes. If using salted butter, reduce added salt slightly. For dairy-free, substitute with ghee or a dairy-free butter alternative. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes.

Nutrition

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