Step 1: Prepare the Salmon
Pat the salmon dry with paper towels. Remove any remaining skin or pin bones, then cut it into 1-inch cubes.
Step 2: Season the Salmon
In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, soy sauce, garlic powder, paprika, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper. Add the salmon cubes and gently toss until evenly coated.
Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3–5 minutes.
Step 4: Arrange the Salmon
Place the salmon cubes in the air fryer basket in a single layer, leaving a little space between each piece. Cook in batches if needed.
Step 5: Air Fry
Cook for 8–10 minutes, shaking the basket or turning the salmon halfway through cooking. The salmon should be lightly browned and flake easily with a fork.
Step 6: Make the Hot Honey
While the salmon cooks, combine the honey, hot sauce, lime juice, red pepper flakes, and melted butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir until smooth and warmed through, about 2–3 minutes.
Step 7: Coat the Salmon
Transfer the cooked salmon bites to a large bowl. Pour the hot honey sauce over the salmon and gently toss until each piece is coated.
Step 8: Garnish
Sprinkle with chopped chives or parsley and sesame seeds, if desired.
Step 9: Serve
Serve immediately with steamed rice, roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or cauliflower rice. They also make a delicious filling for tacos, rice bowls, or lettuce wraps.
Step 10: Store Leftovers
Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3–4 minutes.
Tips
- Use fresh, center-cut salmon for the best texture.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking.
- Adjust the amount of hot sauce to make the glaze as mild or spicy as you like.
- Add a splash of soy sauce or a drizzle of sesame oil to the glaze for extra depth of flavor.
- Serve with extra lime wedges for a bright, fresh finish.
Enjoy these sweet, spicy, and perfectly crispy Air Fryer Salmon Bites with Hot Honey—a quick meal that’s bursting with flavor! 🐟🍯🌶️
