Description
Golden, crispy, and packed with rich, savory flavor, these fried salmon bites are the ultimate seafood snack or appetizer. Whether deep-fried, pan-fried, or air-fried, they come out perfectly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. This easy-to-follow recipe includes the best coating method, frying techniques, and delicious dipping sauces to take your salmon bites to the next level.
Ingredients
For the Salmon Bites
1 lb fresh salmon, skinless and boneless
½ cup all-purpose flour
¼ cup cornstarch
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
2 eggs, beaten
2 tbsp milk
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp paprika
½ tsp lemon zest
Salt and black pepper to taste
2-3 cups vegetable or canola oil (for frying)
Optional Flavor Enhancers
½ tsp cayenne pepper for heat
1 tbsp grated Parmesan for extra crispiness
1 tsp dried dill for a fresh, herby touch
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Salmon
Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture
Cut the salmon into bite-sized cubes, about 1 to 1.5 inches
Season with salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and lemon zest
Step 2: Coat the Salmon
Three-Step Coating Process
Lightly coat each salmon piece in a mixture of flour and cornstarch to help the batter stick
Dip the floured salmon into the egg and milk mixture, ensuring full coverage
Roll the salmon pieces in panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently for an even, crispy coating
Step 3: Choose Your Frying Method
Deep Frying – Maximum Crispiness
Heat 2-3 cups of vegetable oil to 350-375°F (175-190°C)
Carefully drop salmon bites into the hot oil in small batches to prevent overcrowding
Fry for 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally until golden brown
Remove and drain on a paper towel-lined plate
Pan Frying – Crispy with Less Oil
Heat ¼ inch of oil in a non-stick pan over medium-high heat
Fry the salmon bites for about 3 minutes per side until golden and crispy
Transfer to a paper towel to drain excess oil
Air Frying – Healthier Alternative
Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C)
Lightly spray the coated salmon bites with cooking oil
Arrange in a single layer and air fry for 8-10 minutes, shaking halfway through
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Let the fried salmon bites cool for 2-3 minutes before serving
Pair with a delicious dipping sauce and your favorite side dishes
Notes
For extra crunch, double-coat the salmon by dipping it in the egg and breadcrumbs twice
To prevent soggy bites, avoid overcrowding the frying pan or air fryer
If using frozen salmon, thaw completely and pat dry before seasoning
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer Snack Main Course
- Method: Deep Frying Pan Frying Air Frying
- Cuisine: American Seafood
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 ounces of fried salmon bites
- Calories: ~320 kcal
- Sugar: ~2g
- Sodium: ~450mg
- Fat: ~18g
- Saturated Fat: ~4g
- Unsaturated Fat: ~10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: ~22g
- Fiber: ~1g
- Protein: ~25g
- Cholesterol: ~65mg
Keywords: fried salmon bites crispy salmon snack seafood appetizer