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Air fryer salmon cubes with a caramelized brown sugar spice coating and flaky tender centers on a plate

Air Fryer Salmon Cubes with Brown Sugar Spice Coating

Air fryer salmon cubes are a quick seafood recipe with a caramelized brown sugar spice coating and a tender, buttery center. This easy dish is perfect for flavorful weeknight meals when you want a fast and satisfying salmon option.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 8 minutes
Total Time 13 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 188
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Salmon
  • 1 lb. salmon (see note 1)
Spice coating
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch
  • 3/4 teaspoon coarse kosher salt (or 1/2 teaspoon table salt)
  • 2-3 teaspoons avocado or olive oil

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Remove the salmon skin if needed, then pat the fish dry with paper towels. Cut the salmon into 1 to 2 inch cubes.
  2. Combine the brown sugar, spices, cornstarch, and salt in a small bowl.
  3. Coat the salmon cubes with the seasoning mixture and oil, mixing until the pieces are evenly covered.
Cooking
  1. Place the seasoned salmon cubes in the air fryer basket and spread them out so they are not stacked heavily.
  2. Air fry at 400°F (205°C) for 8 minutes.
  3. Check the salmon texture; the outside should be golden and the inside should remain juicy, with the pieces separating easily when pressed with a fork. For a softer center, cook for 6-7 minutes instead.

Notes

For the salmon: A thick, boneless, skinless salmon piece is easiest to cut into cubes. The spice mixture works for 1 to 1.5 pounds of salmon; if using closer to 1.5 pounds, the coating will be lighter and additional salt may be needed after tasting. For the brown sugar: If the brown sugar is dry or clumped, break it apart before mixing so it combines more evenly with the spices and coats the salmon better.