Go Back
–+ servings
A bowl of blackened salmon bites with rice, green beans and lemon wedges.
Course Main Course

Air Fryer Blackened Salmon Bites

By: Elysia Cartlidge
Servings 6 servings
Bite-sized pieces of salmon are coated in homemade Cajun seasoning and then cooked until golden brown and crispy in the air fryer in just minutes. The homemade blackened seasoning mix makes these blackened salmon bites easy to throw together any night of the week! Serve them in salmon tacos, on top of a salad, or over a bed of rice for a simple meal your whole family will love! {Gluten-free, paleo & low carb}
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 7 minutes
Total Time 17 minutes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 1/2 pounds skinless salmon fillets, cut into 1-inch chunks
  • 2 teaspoons olive oil
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons smoked paprika
  • 2 teaspoons onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (add more if you prefer it spicier, less if you prefer less spicy)

Optional Garnishes

  • Squeeze of lemon or lime juice
  • Freshly chopped parsley or cilantro

Instructions

  • Mix all of the blackening spices together in a small bowl. Make sure it is blended evenly.
  • Thoroughly pat the diced salmon dry with paper towel. Place in a large bowl and toss with olive oil. You can also drizzle on a couple of drops of honey as well, if desired.
  • Add the blackened seasoning mix and toss with salmon pieces until well coated.

To Make in Air Fryer

  • Preheat air fryer to 400 degrees F. Spray air fryer basket with cooking spray.
  • Place salmon in the air fryer basket and air fry for about 5 to 7 minutes, shaking halfway until the salmon is cooked through in the center and browned and crispy on the outside.
  • Squeeze a bit of lemon juice over top and finely diced fresh parsley or cilantro to serve. 

To Make on Stove Top

  • Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat until very hot. A nonstick or stainless steel skillet will only take 30 seconds to a minute to heat, whereas a heavy skillet like cast iron may take a few minutes.
  • Add 1 tablespoon of oil to the skillet and swirl around to coat. Use tongs to remove the salmon cubes from the bowl and place them in the skillet. Sear for 2-3 minutes, or until golden brown. Using the tongs, flip the salmon and sear on the other side for 2-3 minutes, or until browned and fully cooked.

Notes

  • Adjust the cayenne pepper to taste. If you prefer spicy salmon bites, use 1/4-1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper. If you'd rather keep them on the milder side, stick to 1/8-1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper.
  • For the easiest option, try to find skinless salmon fillets. If you can't find them, use a sharp knife to cut off the skin carefully.
  • Use an instant read thermometer to check for doneness. When fully cooked, the internal temperature of salmon should be 145 F. 
  • Be careful that you don't overcook the salmon, or it will turn out dry and tough rather than moist and flaky.

Nutrition

Calories: 183kcalCarbohydrates: 2gProtein: 23gFat: 9gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 62mgSodium: 440mgPotassium: 613mgFiber: 1gSugar: 0.2gVitamin A: 914IUVitamin C: 0.2mgCalcium: 26mgIron: 2mg
Tried this recipe?Tag me Today! Mention @hauteandhealthyliving or tag #HauteandHealthyLiving!