Name: Bang Bang Salmon Bites Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: Asian Fusion
Ingredients: 1 ½ pounds salmon fillets (skin removed, cut into bite-sized pieces); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; ½ teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat); ½ cup mayonnaise; ¼ cup Thai sweet chili sauce; 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce (adjust to taste); 1 tablespoon honey; 1 tablespoon lime juice

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 5 reviews

If you love bold flavors and perfectly cooked seafood, you are in for a real treat with this Bang Bang Salmon Bites Recipe. These bite-sized pieces of salmon pack a delightful punch with their crispy edges and creamy, spicy sauce that hits all the right notes. It’s a dish that brings together sweet, tangy, and spicy elements in a way that’s irresistibly addictive. Whether for a snack, appetizer, or light dinner, these Bang Bang Salmon Bites will quickly become your new favorite go-to.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows two clear glass bowls on a white marbled surface. The left bowl contains raw, orange salmon chunks topped with several spices: black pepper, white powder, brown-red paprika, and yellow garlic powder, all sitting on top in separate small piles. The right bowl has the same salmon chunks, but now mixed with the spices, giving the fish a reddish-brown, spiced coating with a slightly shiny texture and even color. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Simple ingredients come together beautifully in this recipe, each playing a key role in creating layers of flavor and perfect texture. From the rich salmon to the spicy sauce, every element is essential to make those Bang Bang Salmon Bites stand out.

Salmon fillets (1 ½ pounds): Fresh, skin removed, and cut into bite-sized pieces for easy cooking and perfect portions.
Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Helps the seasoning stick and ensures the salmon crisps up nicely in the air fryer.
Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Adds a mellow, savory depth without overpowering the fresh fish.
Onion powder (1 teaspoon): Works alongside the garlic to build a subtle aromatic base flavor.
Smoked paprika (1 teaspoon): Gives a warm, smoky hint that complements the salmon beautifully.
Salt (½ teaspoon): Enhances all the natural and added flavors in the salmon and sauce.
Black pepper (½ teaspoon): Adds a gentle kick and balances the sweetness in the sauce.
Cayenne pepper (¼ teaspoon, optional): For those who like some heat, it brings just the right amount of spiciness.
Mayonnaise (½ cup): The creamy base of the Bang Bang sauce that provides richness and tang.
Thai sweet chili sauce (¼ cup): Delivers sweet and slightly tangy notes that make this sauce unique.
Sriracha sauce (1 tablespoon): Gives the sauce its signature spicy kick, adjustable to taste.
Honey (1 tablespoon): Adds a natural sweetness to balance the heat from the chili sauces.
Lime juice (1 tablespoon): Brightens and lifts the overall flavor, adding a fresh citrus zing.

How to Make Bang Bang Salmon Bites Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce

Start by making the sauce because it needs to be ready to drizzle over the salmon as soon as it’s cooked. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and lime juice until smooth and well combined. Set this vibrant sauce aside; its creamy, spicy, and sweet flavors will bring your salmon bites to life.

Step 2: Season the Salmon Bites

In a large bowl, toss the salmon pieces with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if you’re using it. Make sure each bite is thoroughly coated in this aromatic seasoning blend — this step is crucial for layering flavor and getting that crispy finish.

Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer

Give your air fryer a moment to heat up to 400°F (200°C), which takes about 3 minutes. Proper preheating helps the salmon bites cook evenly and develop those irresistible crispy edges without drying out the inside.

Step 4: Cook the Salmon Bites

Arrange the salmon bites in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding so the hot air can circulate and give the salmon a perfect crispy exterior. Air fry for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking. The salmon should be tender, flaky, and lightly crisped at the edges.

Step 5: Serve With That Amazing Sauce

Transfer your perfectly cooked salmon bites to a serving plate and generously drizzle the Bang Bang sauce on top. Keep some sauce on the side for dipping — because why not? This final touch makes the dish pop with flavor.

How to Serve Bang Bang Salmon Bites Recipe

A white plate holds a layer of fluffy white rice scattered with black and white sesame seeds and small bits of green onions, giving it a speckled look. On top, there are eight pieces of golden brown grilled chicken with a shiny, light brown sauce coating each piece, and small chopped green onions sprinkled over them. On one side, a bright green lime wedge rests against the rice, adding a splash of color. The plate sits on a white marbled surface, and the food looks fresh and vibrant. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes really elevate this dish both visually and flavor-wise. Try sprinkling chopped green onions or fresh cilantro over the salmon bites for a burst of color and freshness. A few toasted sesame seeds add a nice nutty crunch, while a wedge of lime on the side lets everyone add a bit more tang if they like.

Side Dishes

Bang Bang Salmon Bites shine as an appetizer, but pairing them with light sides turns this into a satisfying meal. Serve alongside a crisp cucumber salad or a simple mixed greens salad dressed in a citrus vinaigrette to keep flavors bright and balanced. Steamed jasmine rice or fluffy quinoa also work wonderfully to soak up every bit of sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Think beyond the plate to make these salmon bites a party favorite. Serve them on skewers for easy finger food or arranged over crispy wonton chips for an irresistible crunch-and-creamy appetizer. You can even create mini lettuce wraps for a low-carb twist that feels fresh and fun.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Bang Bang Salmon Bites can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Store the sauce separately to keep the salmon crispy. When ready to eat, gently reheat the salmon bites to maintain their texture before serving with the sauce.

Freezing

While fresh is always best, you can freeze cooked salmon bites for up to 1 month. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze initially, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.

Reheating

To bring back the crispiness of the salmon bites, reheat them in an air fryer or oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it tends to make the salmon soggy. Add the Bang Bang sauce fresh just before serving to keep it vibrant and creamy.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to fully thaw and pat the salmon dry before cutting and seasoning. This helps achieve that perfect crispy texture when air frying.

Is it possible to make this recipe without an air fryer?

Yes, you can bake the salmon bites in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for about 12-15 minutes, turning halfway through. They may not be as crispy but will still be delicious!

Can I adjust the spice level in the Bang Bang Salmon Bites Recipe?

Definitely. The sriracha and cayenne pepper let you control the heat. Start with less and add more to suit your taste buds perfectly.

What can I substitute for Thai sweet chili sauce?

If you don’t have Thai sweet chili sauce, a mix of honey and mild chili sauce or a sweet and spicy jam works well as a replacement to keep the flavor balance.

Are Bang Bang Salmon Bites healthy?

They can be! Salmon is rich in omega-3s and protein, and cooking them in the air fryer uses less oil. Just enjoy the sauce in moderation to keep it balanced.

Final Thoughts

Making the Bang Bang Salmon Bites Recipe is one of those kitchen adventures that feels both fun and rewarding. Every bite delivers a perfect harmony of crispy, creamy, sweet, and spicy that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re sharing with friends or treating yourself, this recipe promises smiles all around. Grab your ingredients, fire up the air fryer, and dive into these flavorful nuggets that you’ll want to add to your regular rotation right away!