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Air Fried Fish Nuggets

Overview
Fast, flavorful, and built for sharing, these air-fried salmon bites deliver caramelized teriyaki on the outside and tender fish inside. They’re plated over a pineapple coconut aioli that brings tropical sweetness and a touch of heat. It’s a simple prep, quick cook, and flexible enough for holidays, game days, or a weeknight snack attack.

[[ recipeID=recipe-2mja4gl51, title=Air Fried Adult Fish Nuggets with a Garlic Butter Sauce ]]

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use salmon with skin on?
Not here. Remove the skin so the cubes cook evenly and get good surface caramelization.

What if I don’t have an air fryer?
Use a hot oven around 425°F or cook the nuggets in a pan for a few minutes on each side. Watch closely so they do not overcook.

Is the teriyaki rub required?
No. Any sweet savory dry rub works. You can also brush on teriyaki sauce at the end for a glossy glaze.

Can I make the aioli ahead of time?
Yes. Cover and refrigerate for a day and give it a quick stir before serving.

How spicy is this?
Mild to medium. Adjust the sriracha to your taste.

Can these be served cold?
Warm is best. If they cool down, a short reheat will help bring back texture.

How else can I serve them?
Try rice bowls, tacos, sliders, or chop and toss into a salad.


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Air Fried Adult Fish Nuggets

Caramelized teriyaki salmon nuggets meet a tropical dip that tastes like a mini vacation in a bowl. They crisp up fast in the air fryer, get glossy and sticky, then land on a velvety blend of pineapple, coconut, and just enough heat to keep things interesting. Great for a holiday dinner spread, ideal for the big game, and dangerously doable on a random weeknight when “snacks for dinner” suddenly feels like a life plan.

Servings: 5 people

Keywords:

  • Prep Time: 20 mins
  • Cook Time: 10 mins
  • Total Time: 30 mins

Ingredients

Instructions

Ingredients

  • 2 LB Skinless Salmon, Cubed
  • 2 TBSP Vegetable Oil
  • ½ Cup Teriyaki Dry Rub (Maui Wowee Recommended, or Your Preferred

Pina Colada Aioli

  • ½ Cup Mayonnaise
  • ¼ Cup Crushed Pineapple, Drained
  • ¼ Cup Unsweetened Coconut Milk
  • 2 TBSP Sirarcha (Any Brand Will Work)
  • ¼ Cup Parsley, Chopped

Instructions

  1. Preheat Air fryer to 375°F
  2. Cut the salmon into uniform 1-inch cubes and place in a large mixing bowl.
  3. Toss the salmon with oil, then add the teriyaki dry rub. Mix until evenly coated.
  4. Arrange the salmon cubes in a single layer in an air fryer basket, leaving space between pieces.
  5. Air fry at 375°F for 6 to 8 minutes, or until cooked through and caramelized.
  6. While the salmon cooks, prepare the sauce. In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, crushed pineapple, coconut milk, sriracha, and parsley. Mix until smooth and well incorporated.
  7. Spoon a generous layer of sauce onto the bottom of a large serving platter.
  8. Arrange the salmon nuggets over the sauce and insert a serving pick into each piece.
  9. Serve Immediately

Notes

-Cut the salmon evenly so every piece finishes cooking at the same time.

-Don’t overcrowd the air-fryer basket—space equals caramelization.

-Taste your aioli and adjust the heat; a little extra sriracha never hurt anyone.

-Drain the pineapple well or the sauce can get loose.

-Serve immediately—these nuggets lose their swagger if they sit around.

-Works as a pass-around bite, a topping for rice bowls, or a protein boost for salads.