Because Salmon is super expensive where I live, I usually am very careful when I’m cooking it and I try to make sure that the end-result is going to be super tasty!
These air fryer salmon bites are everything: crispy edges, flaky centers, and coated in a rich lemon garlic butter sauce that I generally use when I want something simple.
They’re fast, loaded with protein, and honestly taste like something you’d get from a bistro—even though they come out of your air fryer in under 10 minutes.
You can serve them with rice like I do, throw them over salads, or eat them straight with a fork (my partner and I definitely did that).
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Tips for Extra Flavor
- Use fresh Atlantic salmon fillets for ease and best texture.
- Make sure to use real butter like Kerrygold for richer flavor in the sauce.
- Add zest from your lemon using a microplane grater before juicing and I really love this one.
- Toss in a pinch of red chili flakes to add heat to the sauce.
- A squeeze of honey into the butter sauce balances the acidity and adds a light glaze.
Air Fryer Salmon Bites with Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce
Course: Lunch, DinnerDifficulty: Easy2-3
servings10
minutes10
minutesIngredients
2 salmon fillets (skinless, about 6 oz each), cut into bite-sized chunks
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp paprika (optional)
- Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce:
1 1/2 tbsp unsalted butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
Juice of 1/2 lemon
1 tsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Directions
- In a bowl, toss the salmon chunks with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
- Let them sit while you preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 2–3 minutes. Place the salmon in a single layer in the basket (you may need to work in two batches depending on size).
- Air fry for 8–10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the salmon is crispy on the outside and flakes easily with a fork.
- While the salmon is cooking, melt the butter in a small pan over medium-low heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30–60 seconds. Stir in the lemon juice and chopped parsley if using, then remove from heat.
- Once the salmon is done, immediately toss the hot bites in the lemon garlic butter sauce until well coated. Serve warm with rice, roasted veggies, or as a protein-packed snack.
- You can pair this with rice, it goes beautifully!
Variations & Substitutions
Swap butter for ghee or dairy-free butter for a lactose-free option.
Try the same method with cod, tilapia, or shrimp for a different protein vibe.
Add soy sauce and ginger to the butter for an Asian-inspired twist.
Want a low-fat version? Skip the butter and drizzle with lemon juice and a little olive oil before serving.
This is one of those recipes you can make when you’re too tired to cook but want something a little gourmet.
Keep it on rotation—it never disappoints.
