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A pile of perfectly cooked honey garlic salmon bites on a plate, showing their crispy texture and glossy glaze. A fork is lifting one bite to show its tenderness.

Honey Garlic Salmon Bites: Crispy, Quick & Irresistible

These 20-minute Honey Garlic Salmon Bites are incredibly crispy, tender, and coated in a sticky, savory sauce. This easy recipe offers air fryer, oven, and stovetop methods for a perfect, flavorful weeknight dinner every time.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Lunch, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Asian-inspired
Calories: 395

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 lbs skinless salmon cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/3 cup honey
  • 3 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tsp fresh ginger grated
  • 1 tbsp water
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes optional

Equipment

  • 1 Air Fryer Optional, for air fryer method.
  • 1 Large Skillet Optional, for stovetop method.
  • 1 Baking sheet Optional, for oven method.

Instructions
 

  1. Pat the salmon cubes completely dry with paper towels. In a medium bowl, toss the salmon with olive oil, cornstarch, paprika, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
  2. Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place salmon in a single layer in the basket. Air fry for 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and cooked through.
  3. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange salmon on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes until cooked through.
  4. Heat 1 tbsp of oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add salmon in a single layer and sear for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.
  5. While salmon cooks, whisk together honey, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, water, and red pepper flakes in a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
  6. Transfer the cooked salmon to a large bowl. Pour the warm sauce over the top and gently toss to coat. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions, if desired, and serve immediately.

Notes

Don't Skip Cornstarch: This is the key to a crispy coating.
Dry the Salmon: Ensure the salmon cubes are very dry before seasoning for the best texture.
Don't Overcook: Salmon cooks quickly; check it early to ensure it remains tender and juicy.
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