Crispy Air Fryer Teriyaki Salmon Bites

These crispy air fryer salmon bites cook at 400°F in under 15 minutes, with caramelized edges and a juicy center. They’re coated in a glossy homemade teriyaki glaze and perfect for rice bowls, meal prep, or an easy high-protein dinner!

5 from 24 votes

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Prep Time 5

Cook Time 10

Total Time 15

Serving servings

Ingredients

Salmon:

4 (6oz) salmon fillets (fresh or thawed from frozen), skin removed and cut into 1-inch pieces
toasted sesame seeds, for garnish
2 stalks of green onion, thinly sliced for garnish

Homemade Teriyaki Sauce:

2 teaspoon arrowroot starch, cornstarch, or tapioca flour
¼ cup cold water
¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce, use tamari is gluten-free
¼ cup fresh orange juice, juice from 1 orange
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
2 - 3 tablespoon honey, based on your desired sweetness level
½ teaspoon sesame oil
1 teaspoon fresh grated ginger, very fine
2 - 3 large garlic cloves, minced

Store-Bought Teriyaki Sauce

½ - ⅔ cup favorite teriyaki sauce, (if you do not want to make your own)

Instructions

Prep the Slurry: Dissolve the arrowroot starch in cold water and set aside. Pat the salmon bites completely dry with paper towels.
Mix the Teriyaki Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining sauce ingredients. Do not add the starch slurry yet. SKIP IF USING BOTTLED TERIYAKI SAUCE.
Marinate the Salmon (if time allows): Toss the salmon pieces in ⅓ cup of the teriyaki sauce. Let marinate in a shallow bowl or zip-top bag for 10–20 minutes.
Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat to 400°F and lightly spray the basket with cooking oil.
Air Fry the Salmon: Arrange the salmon in a single layer without overlapping. Air fry for 4–6 minutes, until cooked through and lightly crispy.
Heat the Remaining Sauce: While the salmon cooks, bring the remaining teriyaki sauce to a boil in a small saucepan over medium-high heat.
Thicken the Sauce: Reduce the heat to medium-low and whisk in the starch slurry. Simmer for 3–4 minutes, until thickened. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Glaze the Salmon: Remove the salmon from the air fryer and toss with the thickened teriyaki sauce.
Serve & Garnish: Serve over warm rice and top with sesame seeds, sliced green onions, and your favorite roasted or steamed vegetables (broccoli or edamame are great options). I love these Air Fryer Green Beans!

Notes

Cut Evenly: Keep salmon cubes about 1 inch so they cook evenly.

Pat Dry: Moisture prevents crisping — blot the salmon well before air frying.

Don't Overcook: Salmon is done at 140–145°F. Remove promptly to keep it tender.

Shortcut Option: You can use store-bought teriyaki sauce instead of homemade.

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 2–3 minutes for the best texture.

Nutrition

Course Dinner

Cuisine Asian, Healthy

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