Bang Bang Salmon Bites are crispy, spicy, and absolutely delicious little pieces of salmon that come out perfect every time when you use the air fryer. These bites have a crunchy outside with tender, flaky salmon inside, all coated in a creamy, spicy bang bang sauce that brings a fun kick to the dish.
I love making these salmon bites when I want something quick but flavorful. The air fryer makes it super easy to get that golden crust without frying in tons of oil, which means less mess and a lighter feel. Plus, the bang bang sauce is one of my favorite simple sauces to whip up—it’s creamy with just enough heat, and it really makes the salmon shine.
For serving, I like to put these salmon bites over a bed of rice or alongside some steamed veggies, and sometimes I add a squeeze of fresh lime for a little extra brightness. They’re perfect as a snack, appetizer, or even a main dish, and everyone who tries them always asks for the recipe. These bites have quickly become a favorite in my kitchen because they’re fast, tasty, and always a crowd-pleaser.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillet is best for a flaky, tender bite. If fresh isn’t available, frozen works too—just thaw it before cutting. You can also try sockeye or coho for a richer flavor.
Mayonnaise: This is the base for the creamy bang bang sauce. For a lighter option, try Greek yogurt, which adds tanginess.
Sweet chili sauce & Sriracha: These give the sauce its spicy-sweet kick. If you want less heat, reduce or skip the Sriracha. Honey or maple syrup can replace sweet chili if needed but might change the flavor slightly.
Olive or avocado oil: Use any neutral oil you like for coating the salmon. Avocado oil has a high smoke point, which is great for air frying.
Green onions, sesame seeds, cilantro: These fresh toppings add texture and brightness. If you don’t have cilantro, parsley works well too.
How Do I Get Crispy, Perfect Salmon Bites in the Air Fryer?
Getting crispy salmon in the air fryer is easy but needs attention to a few details:
- Pat dry the salmon well: Removing moisture helps the edges crisp up.
- Even coating: Toss the salmon pieces gently but thoroughly in oil and spices to get flavor and good browning.
- Single layer: Spread the salmon cubes so they don’t touch. Crowding traps steam and prevents crisping.
- Shake halfway: Give the basket a shake mid-cook to brown all sides evenly.
- Watch the time: Salmon cooks quickly. 7-10 minutes at 400°F is enough to be cooked through and lightly charred but still moist inside.
- Serve right away: Crispy texture is best fresh, so drizzle your bang bang sauce just before serving or use as a dip on the side.
These tips help lock in flavor and texture, giving you tender, crispy salmon bites that don’t dry out and are full of bold bang bang flavor.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Air fryer – the star of the recipe for quick, crispy salmon bites with less oil.
- Mixing bowls – handy for tossing salmon with spices and mixing the bang bang sauce.
- Tongs or a spatula – to gently turn the salmon bites without breaking them.
- Measuring spoons – for accurate spice and sauce amounts.
- Sharp knife and cutting board – to cut salmon into even bite-sized pieces safely.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap salmon for firm white fish, like cod or halibut, for a milder flavor that still crisps well.
- Add a sprinkle of finely chopped fresh ginger to the bang bang sauce for a fresh zingy twist.
- Mix in panko breadcrumbs to the salmon cubes before air frying for an extra crunchy coating.
- Top with chopped peanuts or cashews to add a nutty crunch that pairs nicely with the spicy sauce.
How to Make Bang Bang Salmon Bites – Air Fryer Salmon Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb fresh salmon fillet, skin removed and cut into bite-sized cubes
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp sweet chili sauce
- 1 tsp Sriracha hot sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp soy sauce
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil
- 2 green onions, sliced thinly
- 1 tsp sesame seeds (optional)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
- Lime wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for preparation, including chopping and mixing, and around 10 minutes to cook in the air fryer. So in about 20 minutes total, you’ll have delicious, crispy salmon bites ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Bang Bang Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and soy sauce until smooth. Set aside for later use.
2. Prepare the Salmon:
Pat the salmon cubes dry with paper towels to remove extra moisture. Place them in a mixing bowl. Add the garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and olive oil. Toss gently to coat all the pieces evenly with the spices and oil.
3. Cook the Salmon Bites:
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. Arrange the salmon pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they’re not touching. Cook for 7 to 10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through so the bites cook evenly and get a little crisp on all sides. The salmon should flake easily and have lightly charred edges when ready.
4. Serve and Garnish:
Transfer the cooked salmon bites to a serving plate. Drizzle with the bang bang sauce or serve the sauce on the side for dipping. Garnish with sliced green onions, sesame seeds, and chopped fresh cilantro if you like. Serve immediately with lime wedges to add a bright, fresh squeeze on top.
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon, but be sure to fully thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and pat it dry before cutting and cooking. This helps prevent excess moisture and ensures the salmon crisps up nicely in the air fryer.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salmon bites in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the air fryer or microwave to keep them crispy without drying them out.
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier or Milder?
Absolutely! Adjust the amount of Sriracha in the bang bang sauce to control the heat. For milder bites, reduce or omit the Sriracha, and for extra spice, add a dash more or sprinkle with chili flakes before cooking.
Can I Substitute the Mayonnaise in the Sauce?
Yes, Greek yogurt makes a great healthier substitute for mayonnaise and still gives that creamy texture. Just keep in mind it will add a tangier flavor to the sauce.
