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Blackened Baked Salmon Bites – Bold, Spicy & Healthy

Blackened baked salmon bites are a flavorful, bite-sized twist on classic salmon recipes. Coated in a Cajun-inspired spice blend and baked to perfection, these spicy, crispy, and tender morsels are ideal as a main course, appetizer, or healthy snack. Enjoy the bold smoky flavors without the fuss of frying!
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 22 minutes
Course Appetizer, Main Course, Snack
Cuisine American, Cajun, Seafood
Servings 4 servings
Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

  • Baking sheet
  • Oven
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Knife & Cutting Board

Ingredients
  

For the Salmon

  • 1 lb Salmon Fillets fresh, skinless; cut into 1-1.5 inch bite-sized cubes
  • 1 tbsp Olive Oil or avocado oil, for drizzling

For the Blackening Seasoning

  • 1 tbsp Cajun Seasoning
  • 1 tsp Smoked Paprika
  • 1/2 tsp Garlic Powder
  • 1/2 tsp Onion Powder
  • 1/4 tsp Cayenne Pepper adjust to taste
  • 1/2 tsp Dried Thyme or Oregano
  • Salt and Black Pepper to taste

Instructions
 

  • Step 1: Prepare the Salmon
    Pat the salmon dry with paper towels. Cut the salmon fillets into 1 to 1.5-inch bite-sized cubes and place them in a mixing bowl.
  • Step 2: Preheat and Prepare
    Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it. Drizzle the salmon cubes with olive oil to help the spices adhere and keep the fish moist.
  • Step 3: Season the Salmon
    In a small bowl, combine Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, dried thyme (or oregano), salt, and black pepper. Generously sprinkle the spice blend over the salmon cubes and gently toss to coat evenly.
  • Step 4: Bake to Perfection
    Arrange the seasoned salmon bites on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer, ensuring they are spaced apart for even cooking. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes until the exterior is slightly crispy and the salmon is cooked through. For extra crispiness, switch to broil for 1-2 minutes at the end, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
  • Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
    Remove the salmon bites from the oven and let them rest for 1-2 minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice, then serve immediately as an appetizer, main course, or as a topping for salads, tacos, or grain bowls.

Notes

Blackened baked salmon bites are a perfect blend of bold, smoky flavors and a healthy cooking method. The Cajun-inspired spice mix creates a crispy, flavorful crust without the need for frying, preserving the natural richness of the salmon. These bites are not only nutritious—packed with omega-3 fatty acids and lean protein—but also versatile enough to be enjoyed in many ways. Customize the spice level to suit your taste and serve with your favorite dipping sauces for an added flavor boost. Enjoy this easy, crowd-pleasing dish any day of the week!
Keyword Baked Salmon Bites, Blackened Salmon, Healthy Salmon, Spicy Salmon