Get ready to transform your weeknight dinners with these irresistible Honey Garlic Salmon Bites. In just 20 minutes, you can whip up a dish that’s bursting with flavor, perfectly tender, and surprisingly easy to make. This recipe features bite-sized pieces of salmon pan-seared to crispy perfection and then tossed in a sticky, savory-sweet honey garlic glaze. It’s a healthy, quick, and satisfying meal that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or new to the kitchen, this will become your go-to salmon recipe.
We’re covering everything you need to know, from the simple ingredients to three different cooking methods—pan-seared, baked, and even in the air fryer! Say goodbye to boring dinners and hello to your new favorite meal.
Why This Honey Garlic Salmon Bites Recipe is a Must-Try
If you’re looking for a recipe that ticks all the boxes, you’ve found it. These honey garlic salmon bites aren’t just delicious; they’re designed for the modern home cook.
- Quick & Easy: The entire dish comes together in about 20 minutes, making it the perfect solution for busy weeknights.
- Packed with Flavor: The homemade honey garlic sauce is the star of the show. It’s a simple yet powerful combination of sweet honey, savory soy sauce, and pungent garlic that perfectly coats each piece of salmon.
- Versatile Cooking Methods: We’ll show you how to make them on the stovetop, in the oven, or in the air fryer for ultimate convenience.
- Healthy & Nutritious: Salmon is a fantastic source of omega-3 fatty acids and protein. This recipe is a delicious way to enjoy its health benefits. If you’re looking for another healthy option, try our Shrimp and Avocado Bowls.
Key Ingredients for the Perfect Salmon Bites
The magic of this recipe lies in its simplicity. You only need a handful of common ingredients to create these amazing Honey Garlic Salmon Bites.
For the Salmon Bites:
- Salmon: You’ll need about 1.5 pounds of skinless salmon fillet. King, Sockeye, or Coho are all excellent choices.
- Olive Oil: Just a little for cooking to get that perfect sear.
- Salt & Pepper: To season the salmon before cooking.
For the Honey Garlic Glaze:
- Honey: The sweet base of our glaze.
- Soy Sauce: Use a low-sodium soy sauce to control the saltiness.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic provides the best flavor.
- Ginger: A small amount of freshly grated ginger adds a warm, zesty kick.
- Cornstarch: A cornstarch slurry is the secret to a thick, glossy glaze that clings to the salmon.
How to Make Honey Garlic Salmon Bites: A Step-by-Step Guide
Our primary method is pan-searing, which creates a fantastic crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender and juicy. Follow these simple steps for flawless results.
1. Prepare the Salmon
Start by patting your salmon fillet completely dry with paper towels. This is a crucial step for getting a good sear! Cut the salmon into 1-inch cubes. Season the pieces generously with salt and black pepper.
2. Mix the Honey Garlic Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, low-sodium soy sauce, minced garlic, and grated ginger. In a separate, tiny bowl, mix the cornstarch with a tablespoon of water to create a slurry. Set both aside.
3. Cook the Salmon Bites
Heat olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add the salmon bites in a single layer, ensuring they aren’t crowded. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Work in batches if necessary. Remove the salmon from the skillet and set it aside.
4. Thicken the Glaze & Serve
Reduce the heat to medium-low and pour the honey garlic mixture into the same skillet. Bring it to a simmer, then whisk in the cornstarch slurry. Let it bubble for about 30-60 seconds, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens. Return the cooked salmon bites to the skillet and gently toss to coat them in the glorious glaze. Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions before serving.
Alternative Cooking Methods
Don’t want to use the stovetop? No problem. These Honey Garlic Salmon Bites are just as delicious when baked or air-fried.
Air Fryer Honey Garlic Salmon Bites
For an extra crispy finish, the air fryer is a fantastic option. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the seasoned salmon cubes in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Air fry for 6-8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. While the salmon cooks, prepare the glaze on the stovetop as directed above. Once cooked, transfer the salmon to a bowl and toss with the thickened glaze.
Baked Salmon Bites (Oven Method)
Baking is a hands-off method that’s perfect for meal prep. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange the salmon bites on the sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until cooked through. Prepare the glaze on the stovetop while the salmon bakes. Once ready, drizzle the sauce over the bites or toss them gently in a bowl.
Tips for Success
Unlock the full potential of your dish with these expert tips.
- Don’t Overcook the Salmon: Salmon cooks quickly! The bites are done when they are opaque and flake easily with a fork. Overcooking will make them dry.
- Use Fresh Garlic and Ginger: For the most vibrant flavor, always opt for fresh aromatics over powders.
- Pat the Salmon Dry: Removing excess moisture is key to achieving a crispy, golden-brown crust on your salmon bites.
- Don’t Crowd the Pan: Give the salmon bites space in the pan, skillet, or air fryer. Cooking in batches ensures they sear rather than steam. For another recipe that sears beautifully, check out our Parmesan Crusted Chicken.
What to Serve with Honey Garlic Salmon Bites
These versatile salmon bites pair well with a variety of sides. Serve them over a bed of fluffy white or brown rice to soak up the extra sauce. For a low-carb option, cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles are excellent. They also go wonderfully with steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or our popular Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftover salmon bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can dry them out.
Frequently Asked Questions About Honey Garlic Salmon Bites
Yes, you can use frozen salmon. However, you must thaw it completely before you begin. Pat it very dry with paper towels after thawing to ensure you get a good sear.
Salmon bites are cooked through when they turn opaque and flake easily when prodded with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C), but be careful not to overcook them or they will become dry.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat them gently in a skillet over low heat until warmed through. You can also microwave them in 30-second bursts.
Absolutely! You can whisk together the sauce ingredients (honey, soy sauce, garlic, ginger) and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before using.
A firm variety of salmon like King, Sockeye, Coho, or Atlantic salmon works best for this recipe. Ensure you use a skinless fillet to make cutting the cubes easier.
Craving More Easy Dinners?
We hope you love these quick and flavorful Honey Garlic Salmon Bites! They are a testament to the fact that you don’t need a lot of time to create a spectacular meal. If you enjoyed this recipe, please leave a comment below and share it on Pinterest! Your support helps us create more delicious content for home cooks like you.
Honey Garlic Salmon Bites Recipe
Honey Garlic Salmon Bites (Easy 20-Minute Recipe!)
Ingredients
Equipment
Instructions
- Pat the salmon fillet dry with paper towels and cut into 1-inch cubes. Season generously with salt and pepper.
- In a small bowl, whisk together honey, low-sodium soy sauce, minced garlic, and grated ginger. In a separate small bowl, mix the cornstarch with 1 tbsp of water to create a slurry. Set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the salmon bites in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Reduce heat to medium-low. Pour the honey garlic mixture into the skillet and bring to a simmer. Whisk in the cornstarch slurry and cook for 30-60 seconds, stirring until the sauce thickens.
- Return the salmon bites to the skillet and toss gently to coat. Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions. Serve immediately.
Notes
Oven Method: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake seasoned salmon bites on a parchment-lined sheet for 10-12 minutes. Prepare the glaze on the stovetop, then toss with the cooked salmon.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
