Air Fryer Crispy Crab Bites (VIRAL TIKTOK)

crispy air fryer crab bites on a white plate

4.53 from 21 votes

Air Fryer Crispy Crab Bites (VIRAL TIKTOK)

Crispy air fryer crab bites are the latest sensation to take TikTok by storm. There's a good reason these crispy crab snacks have gone viral too. Ready in under 20 minutes, they're a perfect crunchy snack or appetizer that can be made to feed a crowd.

Prep Time5

Cook Time15

Total Time20

Course: Appetizer, Snack

Cuisine: American, Southern

Servings:

Calories: 176kcal

Author: Meaghan @ 4 Sons R Us

Ingredients

2 8 oz pkgs imitation crab meat leg style
6 tbsp melted butter divided
1/2-1 tsp Old Bay seasoning
1/4 tsp garlic powder

US Customary - Metric

Instructions

Slice the crab sticks into roughly 1" pieces, and transfer the chopped meat to a waiting mixing bowl.
Pour half of the melted butter evenly out over the crab pieces, then sprinkle with the Old Bay seasoning. Toss gently, just until evenly coated.
Transfer the prepared crab meat to the basket of an air fryer and spread out in an even, single layer.
Cook at 380° for 9-10 minutes. Open the air fryer, and give the basket a good shake. Close and cook for another 8-10 minutes- depending on your desired level of crispness.
Transfer the crispy crab bites to a waiting plate or bowl. Set aside.
In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining melted butter and garlic powder until evenly combined.
Serve the garlic butter on the side with the warm air fryer crab bites, for dipping.

Notes

Be careful not to toss the crab pieces too long when mixing with the butter and seasoning. Too rough or too long and the meat will break up.
I made these in a 7 quart basket style air fryer. If using a smaller version, you may need to cook the imitation crab bites in batches to ensure a single layer that cooks & crisps evenly.
As written, this recipe makes about 6 servings. You can easily double or triple if making them as an appetizer to feed a crowd.

Nutrition