Bang Bang Salmon Bites are crispy, tender pieces of salmon with a spicy, creamy sauce that just lights up your taste buds. These little bites get perfectly cooked in the air fryer, giving them a great crunch without being greasy. The blend of bold flavors makes each bite super satisfying and easy to enjoy any time.
I love making these salmon bites when I want something quick but still packed with flavor. The air fryer does all the hard work for me, so I get this amazing crispy texture without much effort. The spicy sauce is my favorite part—it adds a nice kick that keeps me coming back for more. I usually mix up a batch to share, but sometimes I end up sneaking bites all by myself!
This dish is perfect served as an appetizer when friends come over or even as a main course with some rice and veggies. I like to keep extra sauce nearby for dunking because it really makes the salmon pop. If you’re looking for a simple, delicious recipe that’s a little different, Bang Bang Salmon Bites are a winner every time in my kitchen.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets give the best flavor and texture here. If you can’t find fresh, thawed frozen salmon works well too. Avoid pre-seasoned or smoked salmon for this recipe.
Olive Oil: Olive oil helps crisp up the salmon in the air fryer. You can swap it with avocado or grapeseed oil if preferred.
Spices: Garlic powder and smoked paprika add a nice smoky depth. If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika or a pinch of cayenne can work.
Bang Bang Sauce: The mix of mayo, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha gives the perfect creamy heat. For a dairy-free version, use vegan mayo. Honey can be swapped with maple syrup or agave.
How Do You Get Crispy Salmon Bites in the Air Fryer Without Overcooking?
Perfect salmon bites come from balancing crispiness with tender insides. Here’s how I do it:
- Cut salmon into similar-sized cubes to cook evenly.
- Coat with oil and spices so every bite crisps well.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket—air needs to circulate for crisping.
- Cook at 400°F for 8-10 minutes, shaking halfway to brown all sides.
- Keep an eye after 8 minutes—salmon cooks fast and can dry out if overdone.
By following these tips, you get salmon bites with a golden crust and juicy center every time!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Air fryer – it crisps the salmon bites quickly and evenly without extra oil.
- Mixing bowls – handy for tossing salmon with spices and making the sauce.
- Whisk or fork – helps blend the Bang Bang sauce smoothly.
- Sharp knife and cutting board – for cutting salmon into even bite-sized pieces.
- Tongs or spatula – to shake or turn salmon bites in the air fryer basket.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap salmon for shrimp or firm white fish like cod for a different seafood twist.
- Add a sprinkle of chili flakes or cayenne to the seasoning for extra heat.
- Mix in chopped fresh cilantro or basil on top for a fresh herb flavor.
- Use honey mustard instead of sweet chili sauce in the Bang Bang sauce for a tangy option.
Bang Bang Salmon Bites – Air Fryer Salmon Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salmon Bites:
- 1 lb salmon fillet, skin removed and cut into bite-sized cubes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp black sesame seeds (optional)
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp sweet chili sauce
- 1 tsp sriracha sauce (adjust for spice preference)
- 1 tsp honey or sugar
- ½ tsp rice vinegar or lime juice
Time Needed
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 8-10 minutes to cook in the air fryer. Adding about 5 minutes for mixing the sauce and garnishing, you’ll have a delicious dish ready in roughly 20–25 minutes total.
Step-By-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare and Season the Salmon:
Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for around 5 minutes. Meanwhile, toss the bite-sized salmon cubes in a bowl with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and black sesame seeds if you’re using them. Mix well so every piece is nicely coated.
2. Air Fry the Salmon Bites:
Place the salmon pieces in a single layer inside the air fryer basket. Be sure not to overcrowd the basket, as this helps the bites crisp up evenly. If needed, cook in batches. Air fry for 8–10 minutes, shaking or turning them halfway through to ensure all sides get golden and crisp.
3. Make the Bang Bang Sauce:
While the salmon cooks, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey (or sugar), and rice vinegar (or lime juice) in a small bowl. Adjust the sriracha to your preferred spice level.
4. Serve and Enjoy:
When the salmon bites are cooked, transfer them to a serving plate. Drizzle the Bang Bang sauce over the bites or serve it on the side for dipping. Garnish with sliced green onions for a fresh, colorful finish. Enjoy right away while warm and crispy!
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to fully thaw the salmon in the refrigerator overnight and pat it dry before cutting and seasoning. This helps the bites crisp up better in the air fryer.
How Should I Store Leftover Salmon Bites?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes to regain crispiness.
Can I Make the Bang Bang Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! The sauce can be made up to 3 days in advance and kept covered in the fridge. Give it a quick stir before serving.
What Can I Serve with Bang Bang Salmon Bites?
These bites pair wonderfully with steamed rice, a crisp salad, or roasted veggies. They also make a great appetizer with extra sauce for dipping!