Description
These Blackened Air Fryer Salmon Bites are a quick, flavorful, and healthy seafood snack or appetizer. Tender chunks of salmon are seasoned with a bold blend of spices, air fried to perfection for a crispy, smoky crust, and served with fresh lemon wedges and parsley. Perfect for a light meal or paired with brown rice for a satisfying dinner.
Ingredients
Salmon
- 4 (6 ounce) skinless salmon filets, diced into 1-inch chunks
- Olive oil spray
Spice Mix
- 1 tablespoon sweet paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
For Serving
- Lemon wedges
- Chopped parsley
- Brown rice (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the salmon: Place the diced salmon chunks in a large bowl and lightly spritz them with olive oil spray to ensure the seasoning adheres well and to promote crisping during cooking.
- Make the spice rub: In a small bowl, combine sweet paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, dried thyme, dried oregano, kosher salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to create a uniform spice blend.
- Season the salmon: Rub the spice mixture evenly over all sides of the salmon chunks, making sure each piece is well coated for maximum flavor.
- Prepare the air fryer basket: Spray the air fryer basket lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking and help achieve a crispy exterior on the salmon bites.
- Air fry the salmon bites: Place the seasoned salmon chunks in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook at 400°F (204°C) for 5 to 7 minutes, shaking or gently tossing the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking. The salmon should be cooked through in the center and have a nicely browned, blackened crust on the outside.
- Serve: Remove the salmon bites from the air fryer and garnish with fresh chopped parsley. Serve immediately with lemon wedges for squeezing over the top. Optionally, accompany with cooked brown rice for a complete meal.
Notes
- Cooking times may vary slightly depending on the size of the salmon chunks and the air fryer model.
- For extra crispiness, ensure the salmon pieces are not overcrowded in the basket to allow proper air circulation.
- You can substitute skinless salmon for salmon with skin if preferred, but skin-on pieces may crisp differently.
- Adjust cayenne pepper according to your spice tolerance.
- Brown rice is optional but adds a wholesome side to round out the meal.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American