Crispy Spicy Salmon Bites are bold, flavorful, and ready in no time. Bite-sized pieces of salmon are seasoned, cooked to golden perfection, and tossed in a spicy, sticky glaze that hits all the right notes—crispy, juicy, and just the right amount of heat.

Crispy Spicy Salmon Bites

Why I Love This Recipe

I love how quick and satisfying this recipe is. The salmon comes out crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with spicy-sweet flavor. It works just as well for a fun appetizer as it does for a weeknight dinner. Plus, I can throw it together with just a handful of ingredients and get it on the table in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Salmon fillets, skin removed and cut into bite-sized cubes
Olive oil
Paprika
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Salt
Black pepper
Hot honey (or honey + hot sauce)
Unsalted butter
Cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
Fresh parsley, for garnish

Directions

Season the salmon:
I toss the salmon cubes in olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until they’re well coated.
Cook the salmon:
I either air fry or oven-bake the salmon. In the air fryer, I cook them at 390°F for about 9–10 minutes, shaking halfway through. In the oven, I bake them at 400°F for around 16 minutes, flipping once. They should be golden and crispy on the edges.
Make the spicy glaze:
While the salmon cooks, I melt butter in a small saucepan, stir in the hot honey, and add a pinch of cayenne if I want more heat. I simmer it for just a minute to blend the flavors.
Toss and serve:
I pour the warm spicy glaze over the cooked salmon bites and gently toss until every piece is coated. A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top finishes it off.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

Extra crunch: I sometimes coat the salmon in panko before cooking for an ultra-crispy texture.
Different sauce: I swap hot honey for buffalo sauce or sriracha-mayo for a different kick.
Air fryer vs. oven: Both work well, but I go with the air fryer when I want max crispiness with minimal oil.
Mild version: I leave out the cayenne and use plain honey if I’m not in the mood for heat.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Reheating: I reheat them in the air fryer or oven at 350°F for a few minutes to bring the crisp back. The microwave works too, but it softens the texture.
Freezing: I don’t recommend freezing them once cooked, since the glaze can make them soggy.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, I just make sure it’s fully thawed and patted dry before seasoning. That helps the salmon crisp up properly.

How spicy are these?

That depends on the hot honey and how much cayenne I use. I can keep it mild or turn up the heat to my liking.

What can I serve with them?

I usually serve them over jasmine rice, in a rice bowl with veggies, or alongside a fresh cucumber salad. They also work great as finger food with dipping sauces.

Can I make these ahead?

I prefer to cook them fresh for the best texture, but I prep the salmon and sauce ahead of time and store them separately. Then I just cook and toss when ready.

What’s the best way to keep them crispy?

I space the salmon out when cooking (no crowding!), and I toss them in the glaze just before serving so they don’t sit too long in the sauce.

Conclusion

Crispy Spicy Salmon Bites are the kind of recipe I keep coming back to—easy, fast, and loaded with flavor. Whether I’m looking for a fun appetizer or a simple dinner with a little kick, this one always delivers. It’s crispy, spicy, and downright addictive.