Name: Air Fryer Spicy Honey Salmon Bites Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 7 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 10 ounces salmon, skin removed and cut into 1-inch cubes; 1 tablespoon coconut aminos; 1 tablespoon sriracha; 2 teaspoons honey; 1 teaspoon rice vinegar; 1 teaspoon sesame oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger; Salt and pepper, to taste; Green onions, sliced; Sesame seeds; Sriracha mayo; White rice; Steamed or sautéed veggies; Avocado slices

Jump to Recipe· 3.8 from 62 reviews

If you’re craving a dish that perfectly balances sweet, spicy, and savory flavors while being incredibly quick to whip up, this Air Fryer Spicy Honey Salmon Bites Recipe is going to become your new favorite. Imagine tender, bite-sized pieces of salmon, marinated in a luscious blend of honey and sriracha, crisped to perfection in the air fryer, creating a delightful contrast between a lightly crispy exterior and a juicy, flavorful inside. It’s an easy, vibrant meal that tastes like a restaurant-quality treat yet comes together effortlessly in your own kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A large white bowl filled with many bright orange chunks of raw salmon with visible white lines, placed near the center right of the image. Surrounding the bowl are 9 small white bowls or containers arranged in a loose circle, each holding different ingredients: chopped green onions with shades of light and dark green at the top left, a roughly mashed pale yellow paste in the top center, a dark brown liquid in a small white pitcher at the top right, a thick red sauce in a bowl near the middle left, a honey-colored liquid with a wooden honey dipper resting in it just below the red sauce, a very small bowl with a dark brown liquid in the bottom center left, a small bowl with a mix of salt and black pepper at the bottom left, a bowl with light beige sesame seeds at the bottom center right, a bowl containing light brown powdered spices, and a small glass container with a clear liquid nearby. All is set on a white marbled surface photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The wonderful thing about this recipe is how the simple, fresh ingredients come together to build layers of delicious flavor and texture. Each component plays a key role, from the rich, flaky salmon providing heartiness and protein, to the punchy sriracha adding the perfect heat, and the honey balancing it all with just the right amount of sweetness.

10 ounces salmon, skin removed and cut into 1-inch cubes: Fresh or thawed salmon works best for tender, juicy bites.
1 tablespoon coconut aminos: A savory soy sauce alternative that adds umami depth without overwhelming saltiness.
1 tablespoon sriracha: This chili sauce gives a vibrant, spicy kick to the marinade.
2 teaspoons honey: Adds natural sweetness that harmonizes perfectly with the heat.
1 teaspoon rice vinegar: Provides a bright, subtle tang that lightens the marinade.
1 teaspoon sesame oil: Imparts a nutty aroma that elevates the overall flavor profile.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic packs in fragrant, savory notes essential for a bold taste.
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger: Adds warmth and gentle spice for complexity.
Salt and pepper, to taste: Enhances and balances the flavors perfectly.
Optional toppings like green onions and sesame seeds: For freshness, color, and a bit of crunch.
Serving suggestions such as sriracha mayo, white rice, veggies, or avocado: Complement the salmon for a complete meal.

How to Make Air Fryer Spicy Honey Salmon Bites Recipe

Step 1: Mix the marinade

Start by combining all the marinade ingredients in a medium-large bowl: coconut aminos, sriracha, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, ground ginger, salt, and pepper. Take a moment to stir everything together until the honey dissolves and the colors meld into a beautiful spicy-sweet sauce. This marinade is where all the magic begins and sets the stage for juicy, flavorful salmon bites.

Step 2: Marinate the salmon

Next, add your salmon cubes to the bowl and gently toss them so every piece is lovingly coated in the marinade. You want that sauce to saturate each bite for maximum flavor impact. Cover the bowl and let the salmon marinate for at least 15 minutes—this short rest time allows the salmon to soak up all those delicious notes without losing its tender texture.

Step 3: Prepare the air fryer

While the salmon marinates, preheat your air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures the salmon cooks evenly and crisps up beautifully. Having the air fryer ready to go is key for that perfect crispy outside with tender middle.

Step 4: Air fry the salmon bites

Arrange the marinated salmon pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding—giving each bite some breathing room allows the hot air to circulate freely and crisp the salmon evenly. If you saved any extra marinade, feel free to drizzle a little more on top for added glaze and flavor. Cook for about 7 minutes, until they are lightly crisp on the outside but still juicy and tender inside.

Step 5: Final touches

Once cooked, carefully remove the salmon bites from the air fryer. You’re now ready to add any final toppings like chopped green onions or a sprinkle of sesame seeds to add freshness and a bit of crunch. This simple final step really elevates the presentation and flavor.

How to Serve Air Fryer Spicy Honey Salmon Bites Recipe

A white bowl filled with a layered dish starting with a base of white rice. On top, sections of bright orange shredded carrot, green edamame beans, cubed light green avocado, and diced dark green cucumber sit neatly around the bowl. In the center are golden-brown grilled chicken pieces, drizzled with a light pink creamy sauce and sprinkled with black and white sesame seeds and small slices of green onion. A silver fork rests inside the bowl on the right side. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface, surrounded by other bowls filled with shredded carrot and edamame beans. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes make all the difference. Try tossing on thinly sliced green onions for a pop of vibrant color and mild bite. Toasted sesame seeds add a nutty crunch that contrasts nicely with the tender salmon. A drizzle of sriracha mayo can bring creaminess and an extra layer of spice that complements the bites beautifully.

Side Dishes

This recipe pairs wonderfully with simple steamed white rice or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. Fresh veggies like roasted broccoli, snap peas, or crisp avocado slices add both color and nutrition to the plate, balancing the spice with cool creaminess and crunch.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve these salmon bites on a bed of mixed greens dressed lightly with sesame oil and rice vinegar. Or for an appetizer-style presentation, skewer the bites on toothpicks and serve with dipping sauces like a creamy sriracha mayo or tangy soy-ginger sauce. These ideas make the dish versatile and great for sharing with friends or family.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover salmon bites can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Make sure they are cooled to room temperature before sealing to keep flavors fresh and textures intact. This makes for an easy next-day lunch or snack.

Freezing

If you want to keep leftovers longer, place salmon bites on a lined baking sheet and freeze them individually first. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. This way, they maintain their shape and can be reheated individually without sticking together. Frozen bites best if eaten within one month to preserve flavor and texture.

Reheating

Reheat salmon bites in the air fryer at 350 degrees for 3-4 minutes to regain the crisp exterior without drying out the tender inside. Avoid using a microwave if you want to keep that texture contrast fresh and delicious. Alternatively, a hot skillet can also do the trick.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the salmon completely, pat it dry, and drain excess moisture before marinating. This helps the marinade stick better and allows the salmon to crisp nicely in the air fryer.

Is coconut aminos necessary?

While coconut aminos add a unique depth and mild sweetness, you can substitute with low-sodium soy sauce or tamari. Just adjust the salt accordingly since soy sauce tends to be saltier.

Can I adjust the spice level?

Definitely! If you prefer milder salmon bites, simply reduce the amount of sriracha or omit it altogether. For extra heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or more sriracha to the marinade.

What if I don’t have an air fryer?

No problem. You can cook the salmon bites in a hot skillet with a bit of oil for about 3-4 minutes per side. They won’t be as crispy, but still delicious and tender.

Can I use this marinade for other proteins?

Yes! This marinade works wonderfully with shrimp, chicken, or tofu, making it versatile for different meals while keeping that fantastic spicy-sweet flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Air Fryer Spicy Honey Salmon Bites Recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy seafood that is both quick and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or impressing guests with a simple yet gourmet dish, these salmon bites are sure to delight. Give it a try and watch it become a cherished go-to in your recipe collection!