Airfryer cajun salmon bites

The best air fryer cajun salmon bites recipe

Move over chicken nuggets — salmon has entered the building. These air fryer cajun salmon bites are everything you want from a quick weeknight dinner or cheeky snack: crispy on the outside, juicy and flaky in the middle, and bursting with flavour. The best part? They’re done in under 15 minutes, making them the ultimate lazy-girl (or boy) recipe.

If you’re already a salmon fan, this recipe is going to blow your mind. And if you’re still on the fence about fish, I promise this will convert you. Salmon chunks get tossed in oregano, basil, Cajun seasoning, garlic, and a touch of chilli for a smoky kick. Then the air fryer works its magic, turning those little cubes into golden, crispy flavour bombs. Dip them into my zesty lemon mayo and honestly? You’ll wonder why you ever bothered with frozen fish fingers.

Why salmon bites work so well in the air fryer

Here’s the thing about the air fryer: it’s a game-changer for salmon. Instead of faffing around with a frying pan and hot oil, you get the same crispy edges and perfectly flaky texture with way less effort (and fewer calories if you’re counting). Plus, salmon is naturally rich in omega-3s and protein, which makes these bites not just tasty but actually good for you.

Cooking salmon in the air fryer also means you don’t stink out the kitchen like you sometimes do when pan-frying fish. Everything stays neat, contained, and mess-free. It’s basically clean eating with less cleaning up. Win-win.

The perfect dip: lemony seasoned mayo

Now, no salmon bite is complete without a dip — that’s just science. For this recipe, I’ve whipped up a simple lemony mayo with some leftover seasoning mix that balances out the spice perfectly. It’s creamy, zingy, and so addictive you’ll want to put it on literally everything (I’ve tested it on chips, roasted veg, even sandwiches… you’re welcome).

If you’re spice-shy, don’t worry — the lemon mayo tones everything down so you’re getting flavour, not fire. Think smoky Cajun vibes rather than tongue-numbing heat. If you do like it spicy, feel free to sneak in a dash of hot sauce or extra chilli flakes to take it up a notch.

If you’re all about perfectly seasoned food, don’t forget to try out my roast potato seasoning! This could also make for a great alternative for these salmon bites. Grab a pack here.

FAQ: your salmon bite questions answered

Why use an air fryer?
Because it’s quicker, healthier, and less messy than pan-frying or deep-frying. You still get that gorgeous crispy texture, but without gallons of oil. Plus, it cooks salmon evenly, so you’re not left with raw middles or overcooked edges.

Are these salmon bites really spicy?
Not at all. Cajun seasoning gives a warm, smoky flavour with just a touch of chilli. The lemon mayo dip cools everything down, so they’re definitely more “flavourful” than “fiery.”

Can I make these without Cajun seasoning?
Of course. Swap in paprika and garlic for a milder option, or even try an Italian herb mix if you’re not in the mood for spice.

What do I serve with salmon bites?
They’re amazing as a snack or starter, but also work as part of a main meal. Pile them onto a salad, wrap them in a tortilla, or serve with fries for a fish-and-chip-inspired fakeaway.

Make it your wwn

The beauty of salmon bites is that they’re endlessly customisable. Fancy something fresher? Add dill and lemon zest to the seasoning. Want a Friday night fakeaway? Coat the salmon in panko breadcrumbs before air frying for extra crunch. Or go full hun mode and dunk them in sweet chilli sauce — I won’t judge.

Don’t forget the book plug 📚

And if you’re as obsessed with the air fryer as I am, you need to check out my book: Poppy Cooks: The Actually Delicious Air Fryer Cookbook. It’s packed with speedy, tasty recipes just like this one — the sort that prove air fryers aren’t just for chips. Nearly a Sunday Times Bestseller (manifesting a second round, babes), so grab yourself a copy and let’s make air fryer magic together.