Crispy Honey Garlic Salmon Bites are little bites of pure joy! These golden, crunchy salmon pieces are coated in a sweet and garlicky sauce that’s just bursting with flavor. The salmon stays tender inside while the outside gets perfectly crispy, making each bite a delicious mix of textures and tastes.
I love making these when I want a quick but impressive snack or appetizer. The honey and garlic blend together in a way that always gets compliments from friends and family. Plus, they’re easy to pop straight out of the pan and onto the plate, which means less fuss and more time enjoying the food.
My favorite way to serve these salmon bites is with a sprinkle of fresh green onions and a side of steamed veggies or a crunchy salad. They’re great for sharing at gatherings or just as a special treat during the week. Seriously, once you try them, you might find yourself craving these crispy little bites again and again!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon is best for flavor and texture. I like skinless fillets for easy cutting and crisping. If unavailable, frozen salmon thawed well works fine too.
Coating: Flour creates a nice crust, but cornstarch makes the bites extra crispy if you prefer a lighter crunch. You could also try panko breadcrumbs.
Honey: The sweet base of the sauce. Maple syrup or agave nectar can be swapped if you want a different sweetness or need a vegan option.
Soy Sauce: Adds saltiness and depth. For gluten-free, choose tamari or coconut aminos instead.
Butter & Oil: Butter adds richness and flavor to the sauce. Use olive oil for frying or vegetable oil if you want a neutral taste.
How Do You Get Salmon Bites Crispy Without Overcooking?
Salmon cooks quickly and can dry out if you’re not careful. The key is to keep cubed pieces similar in size so they cook evenly.
- Pat salmon dry to remove moisture—wet fish won’t crisp well.
- Coat lightly but evenly in flour or cornstarch to form a crispy shell.
- Cook on medium-high heat to create a nice crust quickly without burning.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if needed so each bite gets direct heat.
- Flip gently once the bottom is golden, then cook briefly to maintain juiciness inside.
Following these tips helps you get crispy bites on the outside with tender, flavorful salmon inside every time.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large non-stick or stainless steel skillet – it helps get the salmon crispy without sticking or breaking apart.
- Mixing bowls – good for coating the salmon pieces evenly with flour or cornstarch.
- Tongs or a slotted spatula – perfect for flipping the salmon bites gently without smashing them.
- Measuring spoons and cups – to get the sauce ingredients just right.
- Cutting board and sharp knife – for cutting the salmon into even, bite-sized cubes.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap salmon for firm white fish like cod or halibut for a milder flavor and similar texture.
- Add a pinch of smoked paprika or chili powder to the flour coating for a subtle smoky or spicy kick.
- Stir in sesame seeds into the coating or sprinkle on top after cooking for extra crunch and nuttiness.
- Mix fresh ginger with the garlic in the sauce for a fresh, zesty twist that balances the sweetness.
How to Make Crispy Honey Garlic Salmon Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Salmon Bites:
- 1 lb salmon fillet, skin removed, cut into 1-inch cubes
- ½ cup all-purpose flour or cornstarch (for coating)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil
For The Honey Garlic Sauce:
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- ¼ cup honey
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar (optional, for a little tang)
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes around 10 minutes for preparation, and about 10 minutes to cook the salmon bites and the sauce. In roughly 20 minutes, you’ll have a delicious plate of crispy honey garlic salmon bites ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salmon Bites:
Use paper towels to pat the salmon cubes dry, then season them lightly with salt and pepper. Next, coat each cube in flour or cornstarch, shaking off any extra so they’re evenly covered but not too thick.
2. Cook the Salmon Bites:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully place the coated salmon cubes in a single layer without crowding the pan (cook in batches if needed). Cook undisturbed for 2 to 3 minutes until the bottoms turn crispy and golden. Flip them and cook the other side for another 2 to 3 minutes until done. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Make and Toss in the Honey Garlic Sauce:
Turn the heat to medium and add butter to the same pan. When melted, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar if using, and red pepper flakes for a hint of spice. Let the sauce simmer 1 to 2 minutes until slightly thickened. Return the salmon bites to the skillet and toss gently to coat them completely in the sauce.
4. Serve and Garnish:
Transfer the salmon bites to a serving plate, drizzle any remaining sauce over the top, and sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley or cilantro. Serve immediately, perhaps with a side of sour cream or your favorite dipping sauce.
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to fully thaw the salmon in the refrigerator overnight and pat it dry before cutting and cooking. This helps prevent excess moisture, so the bites get nice and crispy.
What Can I Substitute for Flour or Cornstarch?
You can use panko breadcrumbs for an extra crunchy texture or almond flour for a low-carb option. Just adjust the coating thickness to avoid clumps.
How Should I Store Leftover Salmon Bites?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to keep them crispy, or warm briefly in the microwave.
Can I Make These Salmon Bites Ahead of Time?
You can prep the salmon cubes and sauce ingredients in advance but cook the bites just before serving for the best crispy texture and fresh flavor.