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Air Fryer Crab Bites – Crispy, Juicy, and Ready Fast

Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time12 minutes
Total Time22 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

  • Lump crab meat fresh or high-quality canned, 12 ounces, drained and picked over
  • Panko breadcrumbs 3/4 cup (plus extra for rolling, optional)
  • Egg 1 large, beaten
  • Mayonnaise 3 tablespoons
  • Dijon mustard 2 teaspoons
  • Worcestershire sauce 1 teaspoon
  • Lemon zest from 1/2 lemon
  • Lemon juice 1 tablespoon
  • Old Bay or seafood seasoning 1 to 1 1/2 teaspoons
  • Garlic powder 1/2 teaspoon
  • Green onion 2 tablespoons, finely sliced (or chives)
  • Fresh parsley 2 tablespoons, chopped
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Oil spray avocado or olive oil
  • Optional for serving: lemon wedges and a quick dip mayo + lemon + hot sauce

Instructions

  • Prep the crab. Gently check the crab for shells. Pat it dry with paper towels so the mix isn’t watery.
  • Mix the binder. In a medium bowl, whisk the egg, mayonnaise, Dijon, Worcestershire, lemon zest and juice, Old Bay, and garlic powder until smooth.
  • Add aromatics. Stir in the green onion and parsley.
  • Taste the mixture and adjust salt and pepper. It should be bright and savory.
  • Fold in the crab. Add the crab and panko. Use a spatula or your hands to fold gently.
  • Don’t mash—the goal is to keep some crab chunks intact.
  • Chill the mixture. Cover and refrigerate for 15–20 minutes. This helps the breadcrumbs hydrate and makes shaping easier.
  • Shape the bites. Scoop about 1 tablespoon per bite and roll into small balls or press into mini patties, about 1 inch wide. If you want extra crunch, roll lightly in more panko.
  • Preheat the air fryer. Set to 390°F (200°C) for 3–4 minutes.
  • Lightly spray the basket to prevent sticking.
  • Air fry in batches. Arrange bites in a single layer without crowding. Mist the tops with oil.
  • Cook. Air fry for 7–9 minutes total, flipping halfway. They’re done when golden and firm to the touch.
  • If your bites are larger, add 1–2 minutes.
  • Serve hot. Sprinkle with extra parsley, add lemon wedges, and offer a quick dip. Eat right away for the best crunch.