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I discovered these hot honey salmon bites last summer when I was craving something different from my usual salmon recipes. The combination of sweet sticky honey with a kick of heat creates the most incredible glaze over tender chunks of salmon. Now they're my go-to whether I'm having friends over for appetizers or just want to jazz up dinner time.
What Makes These So Good
The magic happens when that sweet and spicy glaze hits the perfectly cooked salmon. I love how quick they are to make whether I pop them in the air fryer or oven. Sometimes I serve them as fancy appetizers, other times they're the star of my dinner bowl. The crispy edges and sticky glaze make every bite absolutely irresistible.
What You'll Need
- Salmon: 1 1/2 pounds of salmon, preferably skinless filets, cut into equal-sized pieces for even cooking. Ensure the fish is thawed if using frozen salmon for optimal texture.
- Seasonings: Paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to enhance the flavor of the salmon.
- Hot Honey: A sweet and spicy condiment, either homemade or store-bought, combined with unsalted butter to create the glaze.
Let's Get Cooking
- Prepare The Salmon
- Remove the skin if needed and cut the salmon into bite-sized pieces. Season with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Cook The Salmon
- Air fry the salmon at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes or bake in the oven at the same temperature until fully cooked, checking for a golden exterior.
- Make The Glaze
- Heat hot honey and unsalted butter until combined and sticky. Adjust spice levels by adding hot sauce or red pepper flakes as desired.
- Coat The Salmon
- Toss the cooked salmon bites in the hot honey glaze until evenly coated. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
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Keep Them Fresh
These bites are best fresh but if you have leftovers, let them cool then store the sauce and salmon separately in the fridge. They'll stay good for about two days. When you're ready to eat, just warm them up in the oven, air fryer or microwave until they're heated through.
Ways to Serve
I love setting these out as appetizers with little toothpicks and extra hot honey for drizzling. For dinner, I'll serve them over fluffy rice with roasted veggies or turn them into the most amazing tacos. Sometimes I'll create a whole grain bowl with quinoa, avocado, and whatever fresh toppings I have on hand.
Common Questions About Cooking
- → What's hot honey?
Hot honey is honey infused with chili peppers. You can buy it pre-made or make your own by warming honey with red pepper flakes.
- → Why remove the salmon skin?
Removing the skin makes it easier to cut even bites and ensures consistent cooking. It also helps the seasoning coat all sides of the salmon.
- → Can I make these ahead?
These are best served immediately while hot and glazed. The salmon can be cut and seasoned ahead, but cook just before serving.
- → What's the best salmon to use?
Fresh salmon fillets work best. Look for center-cut pieces that are evenly thick for consistent cooking. Wild or farm-raised both work well.
- → What sides go well with this?
Try rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. As an appetizer, serve with lime wedges and fresh herbs.