Crispy Honey Garlic Salmon Bites are little pieces of salmon cooked to golden perfection with a crispy outside and tender, flaky inside. They’re coated in a sticky, sweet, and garlicky sauce that makes every bite pop with flavor. These bites are perfect whether you want a quick snack or a main dish that feels special without a lot of fuss.
I love making these salmon bites when I want something fast but still impressive. The honey and garlic combo is a classic that never fails to bring out the best in the salmon, and that crispiness? It’s just so satisfying to bite into. I usually double the sauce because I can’t resist drizzling extra on top or dipping the bites in it.
My favorite way to enjoy these is with a side of steamed veggies or a simple salad to keep things fresh. They’re also great for sharing at casual get-togethers or packed in lunches. Honestly, anytime I make these, everyone always asks for the recipe—and I’m happy to share it every time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: I prefer fresh wild-caught salmon for flavor, but farmed salmon works too. You can use skin-on fillets if you like, just remove the skin after cooking or leave it crispy. Avoid frozen unless fully thawed and patted dry.
Cornstarch: This is key for that crispy outer crust. If unavailable, try all-purpose flour or rice flour for a lighter crunch. I always shake off extra coating to avoid sogginess.
Honey: Use raw or regular honey for sweetness. Maple syrup or agave nectar also work but will change the flavor slightly. I like honey for a classic, balanced taste.
Soy Sauce & Vinegar: Soy sauce adds salty umami; low-sodium versions are great if you want less salt. Rice vinegar brings a mild tang; apple cider vinegar is a good substitute but a bit stronger.
How Do You Get Salmon Bites Crispy Without Overcooking?
Crispy salmon means a hot pan and quick cooking to lock in moisture while forming a crust. Here’s how I do it:
- Dry the salmon well before coating to avoid soggy bites.
- Use a non-stick pan and enough oil to coat the bottom so bites can crisp evenly.
- Cook over medium-high heat but avoid very high heat that burns the coating before the inside cooks.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if needed to keep the heat steady.
- Flip carefully once the underside is golden and crispy, cooking the other side just long enough to finish.
Rest the bites briefly after cooking before adding the sauce so they stay crispy under the glaze.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Non-stick skillet – helps get the salmon bites crispy without sticking or breaking apart.
- Sharp knife – for cutting the salmon into even, bite-sized cubes easily and safely.
- Mixing bowls – useful for dredging salmon in cornstarch and mixing the sauce ingredients.
- Spatula or tongs – to flip salmon bites gently without tearing them.
- Measuring spoons and cups – to get the sauce ingredients just right every time.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap salmon for firm white fish like cod or halibut for a milder taste that still crisps well.
- Add a sprinkle of sesame seeds to the coating for extra crunch and nutty flavor.
- Mix finely chopped green onions or ginger into the sauce to brighten the garlic and honey.
- Use sriracha or chili garlic sauce in place of red pepper flakes for a spicier kick.
Crispy Honey Garlic Salmon Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Salmon Bites:
- 1 lb (450g) salmon fillet, skin removed and cut into 1-inch cubes
- ½ cup cornstarch (for coating)
- 2 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil (for frying)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For The Honey Garlic Sauce:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup honey
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 2 tbsp water
For Garnishing and Serving:
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, finely chopped
- Lemon wedges
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of active cooking time. Prep includes cutting and coating the salmon, then cooking each batch. Adding the sauce and glazing the bites will also take a few minutes. Overall, plan for about 20-25 minutes from start to finish—quick and easy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salmon Bites:
Pat the salmon cubes dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Lightly season with salt and pepper. Put the cornstarch on a plate, then dredge each salmon piece until coated evenly. Shake off any extra cornstarch to avoid clumps.
2. Cook the Salmon Until Crispy:
Heat the olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the coated salmon pieces in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until a golden brown crust forms, being careful not to crowd the pan. Cook in batches if needed. Remove and set aside on a plate.
3. Make the Honey Garlic Sauce and Combine:
Lower the heat to medium, then add the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the honey, soy sauce, vinegar, red pepper flakes, and water. Stir and cook the sauce for 1-2 minutes so it slightly thickens. Return the salmon bites to the pan and gently toss them in the sauce so they glaze well. Cook another 1-2 minutes to let the flavors soak in.
4. Serve and Garnish:
Transfer the salmon bites to a serving dish, spooning any leftover sauce on top. Garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro and a sprinkle of extra red pepper flakes if you like a bit more spice. Add lemon wedges on the side for a fresh squeeze just before eating.
Enjoy your crispy, sweet, and savory Honey Garlic Salmon Bites as a tasty appetizer or alongside steamed veggies and rice for a satisfying meal!
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to fully thaw the salmon in the fridge overnight and pat it very dry before cutting and coating. Extra moisture will make it harder to get that crispy crust.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salmon bites in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When reheating, warm them gently in a skillet over low heat to keep the crispiness, or use a microwave but expect the coating to soften a bit.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
You can prepare and coat the salmon cubes ahead and keep them in the fridge for a few hours before cooking. However, it’s best to fry and glaze the bites fresh for the best texture and flavor.
What Can I Serve With Honey Garlic Salmon Bites?
They pair wonderfully with steamed vegetables, rice, or a crisp salad. Lemon wedges add a fresh, zesty contrast, so don’t skip them!
