Air Fryer Asian Salmon Bites with Sauce

If you’re craving a restaurant-quality Asian-inspired meal but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen, these air fryer Asian salmon bites with sauce are your answer. Ready in just 15 minutes, these tender, buttery salmon cubes are coated in a savory-sweet glaze and served with an irresistible spicy mayo dipping sauce.

This easy salmon bites recipe combines the convenience of air frying with bold Asian flavors, creating a healthy dinner that’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. The best part? We have a secret ingredient that makes these the most delicious air fryer salmon bites you’ll ever taste.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Salmon Bites Recipe

Quick Cooking: These Asian salmon bites air fryer style cook in just 4-6 minutes—faster than ordering takeout!

Healthy and Protein-Rich: Salmon is packed with omega-3 fatty acids, making this a nutritious choice for healthy salmon bites.

Minimal Cleanup: No splattering oil or dirty stovetop—just one air fryer basket to wash.

Versatile Serving Options: Serve as an appetizer, over rice bowls, in tacos, or as a protein-packed snack.

Kid-Friendly: The bite-sized pieces and sweet-savory flavor make this a hit with picky eaters.

Meal Prep Friendly: Make a batch for easy lunches throughout the week.

The Secret Ingredient: Why Mayonnaise Makes the Best Salmon Bites

Here’s the game-changer: instead of coating the salmon with oil, we use mayonnaise. Yes, you read that right!

Mayonnaise might sound unconventional, but it’s the secret to achieving perfectly golden, tender air fryer salmon cubes. Here’s why it works:

Creates a Non-Stick Barrier: The mayo prevents the salmon from sticking to the air fryer basket.

Acts as a Marinade: The oil and egg emulsion in mayo helps flavors penetrate the fish.

Perfect Binder: Seasonings stick to the mayo-coated salmon better than they would to oil alone.

Locks in Moisture: Mayo helps the salmon retain its natural juices, preventing dry, overcooked fish.

Develops a Golden Crust: The fat content in mayo promotes beautiful browning without deep frying.

For the best results, use Japanese-style Kewpie mayonnaise, which is richer and thicker than American mayo. However, regular mayonnaise works perfectly fine—use whatever you have in your fridge. If you absolutely don’t want to use mayo, substitute with 1-2 teaspoons of neutral vegetable oil, though the results won’t be quite as impressive.

Ingredients for Air Fryer Asian Salmon Bites

For the Salmon Bites

1 pound salmon fillet (skinless or skin removed) 2 teaspoons mayonnaise (Kewpie preferred) 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free) 2 teaspoons honey (or maple syrup) 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder 1-2 teaspoons gochugaru (Korean chili flakes) 1 teaspoon cornstarch (helps create a crispy exterior)

For the Spicy Mayo Sauce

1/3 cup mayonnaise (Kewpie recommended) 1.5 tablespoons rice vinegar (unseasoned) 1-2 tablespoons chili garlic paste (adjust to taste) 1/2 teaspoon sugar 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil

Ingredient Notes and Substitutions

Salmon: Choose fresh, high-quality salmon. Wild-caught has more flavor, but farmed salmon works great too. Make sure to remove the skin before cutting into cubes.

Soy Sauce: Regular soy sauce, low-sodium, or tamari all work. Coconut aminos work for a soy-free option.

Honey: Adds sweetness and helps the salmon caramelize. Maple syrup or agave work as substitutes.

Gochugaru: Korean red chili flakes have a sweet, smoky, slightly spicy flavor. Substitute with Aleppo pepper for a milder option, or red pepper flakes for more heat.

Chili Garlic Paste: Found in the Asian section of most grocery stores. Sambal oelek, sriracha, or even gochujang work as substitutes for the dipping sauce.

Cornstarch: Helps the seasonings adhere and creates a light crust. You can omit it, but the coating won’t be quite as crispy.

Step-by-Step: How to Make Asian Salmon Bites in Air Fryer

Prepare the Spicy Mayo Sauce (Can be made up to 3 days ahead)

In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, rice vinegar, chili garlic paste, sugar, and toasted sesame oil.
Taste and adjust spice level by adding more chili paste if desired.
Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve. The flavors will meld and improve as it sits.

Prepare the Salmon

Cut the salmon into uniform cubes: Remove any skin from the salmon fillet. Cut into strips about 1.5 inches wide, then cut crosswise into cubes. Consistency in size is crucial for even cooking.
Dry the salmon thoroughly: Use paper towels to pat the salmon completely dry. This step is essential for achieving a golden crust.
Coat with mayonnaise: Place salmon cubes in a medium bowl and add 2 teaspoons of mayonnaise. Toss gently to coat each piece.
Add the seasonings: Sprinkle in cornstarch, soy sauce, honey, garlic powder, and gochugaru. Toss until every piece is evenly coated with the sweet-savory-spicy mixture.

Air Fry the Salmon Bites

Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3-5 minutes.
Arrange in a single layer: Place seasoned salmon cubes in the air fryer basket with a little space between each piece. Don’t overcrowd—cook in batches if necessary.
Cook for 4-6 minutes: Air fry without flipping. The exact time depends on the size of your cubes and how well-done you like your salmon. For medium-rare (our preference), aim for an internal temperature of 130°F. For medium, cook to 135-140°F.
Check for doneness: The salmon should be golden brown on the outside and tender inside. It should flake easily with a fork but still be slightly translucent in the very center for medium-rare.
Rest briefly: Let the salmon bites air fryer rest for 1-2 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute.

Alternative Cooking Methods

Don’t have an air fryer? No problem! These Asian glazed salmon bites work beautifully with other cooking methods.

Oven Method

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place salmon cubes on a parchment-lined baking sheet with space between each piece. Bake for 7-8 minutes, flipping halfway through cooking time. The salmon should be golden and cooked to your desired doneness.

Skillet Method

Heat 1-2 teaspoons of vegetable oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. When hot, add salmon cubes in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, turning once, until golden brown and cooked through. This method gives you the most control over browning.

How to Build the Perfect Asian Salmon Rice Bowl

Transform your air fryer salmon bites into a complete, Instagram-worthy meal by assembling a rice bowl. This is one of our favorite ways to serve these flavorful bites.

The Base

Start with 1 cup of cooked rice per person. White rice, brown rice, jasmine rice, or even cauliflower rice all work beautifully. For extra flavor, try:

Garlic butter rice
Coconut rice
Sesame rice
Quinoa or other grains

Add the Salmon

Top your rice with 4-6 salmon bites per bowl. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and extra gochugaru or chili flakes if you want more heat.

Fresh Vegetables and Garnishes

This is where you can get creative. Our favorite additions include:

Crunchy Elements:

Sliced Persian cucumbers
Shredded carrots
Thinly sliced radishes
Edamame
Sugar snap peas

Pickled Components:

Quick pickled red onions
Pickled ginger
Pickled daikon
Kimchi

Fresh Herbs and Aromatics:

Sliced scallions (green onions)
Fresh cilantro
Shiso leaves
Thai basil

Additional Toppings:

Toasted nori sheets (cut into strips)
Crispy fried shallots or onions
Avocado slices
Soft-boiled or fried egg
Microgreens

Finish with Sauce and Citrus

Drizzle the spicy mayo sauce generously over everything. Add lime or lemon wedges on the side for a bright, acidic finish that cuts through the richness.

Flavor Variations for Salmon Bites

While the Asian-inspired version is our favorite, these air fryer salmon cubes are endlessly versatile. Try these flavor combinations:

Teriyaki Salmon Bites

Replace the soy-honey mixture with teriyaki sauce. Add a sprinkle of sesame seeds before air frying. Serve with a teriyaki glaze drizzled on top.

Honey Garlic Salmon Bites

Increase honey to 1 tablespoon and add 2 minced garlic cloves (or 1 teaspoon garlic powder). Omit the gochugaru for a milder, sweeter version.

Bang Bang Salmon Bites

Use the same base recipe but serve with a bang bang sauce made from mayo, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha.

Lemon Pepper Salmon Bites

Skip the Asian seasonings and coat with lemon zest, black pepper, garlic powder, and a touch of olive oil. Serve with lemon aioli.

Cajun Salmon Bites

Coat with Cajun seasoning blend instead of the Asian spices. Serve with remoulade or ranch dressing.

Pro Tips for the Best Salmon Bites

Size Matters: Cut all salmon cubes to the same size—about 1.5 inches. This ensures even cooking. Inconsistent pieces mean some will be overcooked while others are underdone.

Don’t Skip the Cornstarch: That teaspoon of cornstarch creates a light, crispy exterior. It also helps the seasonings stick better to the fish.

Pat Salmon Dry: Moisture is the enemy of crispiness. Dry your salmon cubes thoroughly before coating with mayo.

Don’t Overcrowd: Leave space between each piece in the air fryer basket. Crowding creates steam, which prevents browning. Cook in batches if necessary.

Avoid Overcooking: Salmon continues cooking after you remove it from the air fryer. Pull it out when it’s just slightly underdone in the center—around 125-130°F for medium-rare.

No Flipping Required: Unlike other proteins, salmon bites don’t need to be flipped. The convection heat cooks them evenly from all sides.

Prep Ahead: You can coat the salmon with mayo and seasonings up to 24 hours in advance. Store covered in the refrigerator, then air fry when ready to eat.

Storage and Meal Prep Tips

These healthy salmon bites are perfect for meal prepping your weekly lunches.

Refrigerator Storage

Let the cooked salmon bites cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the spicy mayo sauce in a separate container.

Freezer Storage

While we prefer fresh, cooked salmon bites can be frozen for up to 2 months. Place in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. This prevents them from sticking together.

Reheating

Air Fryer: The best method for maintaining texture. Reheat at 350°F for 3-4 minutes until warmed through.

Microwave: Quick but won’t maintain the crispy exterior. Heat on 50% power in 30-second intervals.

Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for 5-7 minutes on a baking sheet.

Cold: Leftover salmon bites are delicious served cold in salads or grain bowls.

Meal Prep Strategy

Prepare 2-3 batches of salmon bites on Sunday. Store in individual containers with rice and vegetables. Keep the spicy mayo sauce separate and add just before eating. You’ll have delicious, healthy lunches ready all week.

Nutritional Benefits of Salmon

Choosing salmon bites air fryer style isn’t just about convenience—it’s also a nutritious choice.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Salmon is one of the best sources of EPA and DHA omega-3s, which support heart and brain health.

High-Quality Protein: One serving provides about 25-30 grams of protein, keeping you satisfied for hours.

B Vitamins: Particularly rich in B12, which supports energy production and nervous system function.

Selenium: Important for thyroid function and immune health.

Vitamin D: One of the few food sources of this crucial vitamin.

Low Carb: Perfect for keto, paleo, or low-carb diets when served without rice.

By air frying instead of deep frying, you’re getting all these benefits without excess oil and calories.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do you cook salmon bites in an air fryer?

Air fryer salmon bites cook in just 4-6 minutes at 375°F. The exact time depends on the size of your cubes and your preferred doneness. For medium-rare, cook to an internal temperature of 130°F. For medium, aim for 135-140°F.

Do I need to flip salmon bites in the air fryer?

No! The beauty of salmon cubes air fryer cooking is that you don’t need to flip them. The circulating hot air cooks them evenly from all sides.

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, but fresh salmon works best. If using frozen, thaw completely first, then pat very dry before proceeding with the recipe. Excess moisture from frozen fish can prevent proper browning.

What can I substitute for mayonnaise?

If you don’t want to use mayo, substitute with 1-2 teaspoons of neutral oil like vegetable, canola, or avocado oil. The results won’t be quite as tender and golden, but it will still work.

Can I make these salmon bites ahead of time?

You can prep the seasoned salmon up to 24 hours in advance and store covered in the refrigerator. The spicy mayo sauce can be made up to 3 days ahead. Air fry the salmon just before serving for the best texture.

What’s the best way to cut salmon into cubes?

Remove any skin from the fillet first. Cut the salmon lengthwise into strips about 1.5 inches wide, then cut crosswise into cubes. Use a sharp knife and try to keep all pieces the same size for even cooking.

Are these salmon bites keto-friendly?

Yes! The Asian salmon bites air fryer recipe is naturally low-carb and keto-friendly. Just skip the honey (or use a sugar-free substitute) and serve without rice. The spicy mayo sauce is also keto-approved.

Can I use a different type of fish?

While salmon works best due to its fat content and texture, you can try this recipe with other firm fish like cod, halibut, or mahi-mahi. Adjust cooking time as needed since leaner fish may cook faster.

How do I know when the salmon is done?

The most reliable method is using an instant-read thermometer. For medium-rare (our preference), aim for 130°F. The salmon should flake easily with a fork and be opaque on the outside with a slightly translucent center.

What makes the sauce spicy?

The heat comes from chili garlic paste (or your chosen substitute). Start with 1 tablespoon and add more to taste. You can also use sriracha, sambal oelek, or gochujang.

Serving Suggestions Beyond Rice Bowls

While rice bowls are fantastic, these versatile Asian glazed salmon bites work in many other dishes:

Salmon Tacos: Serve in corn or flour tortillas with shredded cabbage, avocado, and spicy mayo.

Lettuce Wraps: Use butter lettuce leaves as wraps for a low-carb option.

Salad Topper: Add to mixed greens with Asian-style dressing for a protein-packed salad.

Poke-Style Bowl: Serve raw-style (cook to rare) with sushi rice, edamame, and seaweed salad.

Appetizer Skewers: Thread onto small skewers with vegetables for party appetizers.

Noodle Bowls: Toss with soba, udon, or rice noodles and vegetables.

Bento Boxes: Perfect protein component for Japanese-style lunch boxes.

Spring Rolls: Wrap in rice paper with vegetables and herbs.

Why This Recipe Works

This air fryer Asian salmon bites with sauce recipe succeeds because it combines several winning elements:

The mayonnaise coating is the secret weapon that keeps the salmon incredibly moist while developing a beautiful golden crust. Unlike traditional oil coating, mayo creates a rich, protective barrier that prevents the fish from drying out during the high-heat cooking process.

The Asian-inspired seasoning blend of soy sauce, honey, garlic, and chili flakes creates layers of flavor—savory, sweet, spicy, and umami—that transform simple salmon into something special. The honey isn’t just for sweetness; as an invert sugar, it promotes rapid browning and caramelization.

The air fryer’s convection heat circulates around each salmon cube, cooking it evenly without the need for flipping. This hands-off approach means you can prep your rice and vegetables while the salmon cooks itself to perfection.

The spicy mayo sauce ties everything together with creamy, tangy, spicy notes that complement the rich salmon beautifully. It’s similar to the popular yum yum sauce served at Japanese steakhouses, but with a spicy kick.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, meal prep inspiration, or an impressive appetizer, these air fryer Asian salmon bites with sauce deliver on every level. In just 15 minutes, you’ll have restaurant-quality salmon that’s tender, flavorful, and absolutely addictive.

The combination of crispy exterior, buttery interior, bold Asian flavors, and that irresistible spicy mayo sauce creates a dish that satisfies on every level. Plus, with the convenience of air frying and the health benefits of salmon, you can feel good about serving this meal to your family regularly.

Don’t be intimidated by the idea of cooking fish at home—this easy salmon bites recipe is truly foolproof. The mayo coating and quick cooking time make it nearly impossible to mess up. Even if you’ve never cooked salmon before, you’ll achieve professional results.

So grab your air fryer, pick up some fresh salmon, and get ready to make these incredible healthy salmon bites. We guarantee they’ll become a regular rotation in your dinner lineup. The hardest part will be not eating them all straight from the air fryer basket!