Air Fryer Teriyaki Salmon Bites

When I crave something bold and satisfying but quick enough for a weeknight, these air fryer teriyaki salmon bites never disappoint. The salmon comes out impossibly tender and sweet-savory every time, while garlic green beans and fluffy rice round out the perfect fuss-free meal.

The flavors always remind me of my favorite takeout spot but lighter and way fresher. My whole family gets excited when they smell the salmon cooking in the air fryer.

Ingredients

• Salmon fillets cubed: Opt for center-cut filets with bright orange color for the richest flavor and best moisture
• Teriyaki sauce: Delivers that sweet savory glaze Use a thicker style for the best cling
• Soy sauce: Balances the sweetness with umami A low sodium version works well to control salt
• Mayo: Gives moisture and helps caramelize the surface Japanese-style mayo offers extra creaminess
• Oyster sauce: Adds extra depth and a touch of natural sweetness Choose a thick glossy brand with no fishy smell
• Salt and pepper: Simple seasoning helps every flavor pop
• Extra teriyaki: For brushing on halfway for a fresh shiny glaze
• Green beans: Look for slim crisp beans Snap one in half at the store to check for freshness
• Garlic: Chopped fresh garlic drives the beans with a bold punch Avoid pre-minced for the brightest flavor
• Coarse salt: Brings the best texture to your green beans and seasons them evenly
• White rice: A classic base for all the sauce and juices Fluffy jasmine works best

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Salmon:

Cut the salmon fillets into even bite-sized cubes for consistent cooking and perfect texture Every piece should be roughly the same size so they cook at the same rate

Marinate the Salmon:

In a large bowl combine teriyaki sauce soy sauce mayo oyster sauce a pinch of salt and pepper Toss the salmon cubes until every piece is fully coated Let this marinate for at least fifteen minutes while you prep the sides More time gives even more flavor

Air Fry the Salmon:

Arrange the marinated salmon cubes in a single layer in your air fryer basket Set to three hundred seventy five degrees and cook for twelve minutes Flip the pieces halfway through for even browning and caramelization

Brush and Finish:

After twelve minutes open the basket and brush the salmon bites with extra teriyaki sauce for a glossy finish Return to the air fryer for just two more minutes until sticky and golden

Prep the Green Beans:

Bring a pot of water to a boil and cook green beans for five minutes This keeps them crisp tender Drain and immediately rinse under cold water to stop the cooking and preserve bright color

Sauté Garlic and Beans:

Heat a skillet over medium high and add your minced garlic Sauté for about two minutes until the garlic is fragrant but not browned Toss in the green beans and sprinkle generously with coarse salt Sauté together for four to five minutes until the beans pick up garlicky flavor and a bit of char

Serve the Meal:

Scoop fluffy white rice onto each plate Add a generous mound of garlic green beans and pile on the teriyaki salmon bites right off the air fryer Serve immediately while everything is piping hot with extra sauce on the side

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Fresh garlic makes all the difference in the green beans Instead of jarred garlic I always use whole cloves for bigger aroma I still remember my daughter sneaking bites of these salmon cubes right off the tray before dinner even hit the table

Storage Tips

Let everything cool before packaging Store portions of rice salmon and green beans separately in airtight containers They stay fresh for up to three days in the fridge Reheat gently in the microwave or air fryer just until warm The salmon reheats best when misted lightly with water

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have oyster sauce try hoisin for a different depth You can use tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten free option Chicken breast or extra firm tofu both work as salmon swaps though cooking time will change Sriracha or sesame oil also add a punch to the marinade if you like it spicy

Serving Suggestions

This meal is delicious with a side of quick pickled veggies like carrots or radishes For a full bowl style meal toss with avocado cubes and a sprinkle of furikake Toasted sesame seeds or sliced scallions over top make for a fresh finish

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Cultural Notes

Teriyaki is a Japanese-inspired method that has traveled the world This version takes pantry American sauces and applies air fryer magic but the spirit is in the sweet and savory balance Even my friends who never cooked salmon before rave about how easy this makes it

Recipe Questions & Answers

→ How do I keep salmon bites tender in the air fryer?

Marinating the salmon helps lock in moisture. Avoid overcooking by keeping a close eye, and flip halfway for even texture.

→ Can I use store-bought teriyaki sauce?

Yes, store-bought teriyaki works well and saves time. You can also make homemade for more control over sweetness and saltiness.

→ What other vegetables pair well with salmon bites?

Broccoli, snap peas, or carrots can be swapped for green beans. Lightly stir fry or steam for the best results.

→ How do I meal prep this dish?

Allow the cooked salmon and green beans to cool, then divide into airtight containers with rice. Refrigerate for up to three days.

→ Should I remove the salmon skin before cooking?

Removing the skin results in more even cooking and bite-sized pieces. However, leaving the skin is fine if preferred.