Bang Bang Salmon Bites are a fun and tasty way to enjoy salmon with a little spicy kick! These bite-sized pieces of salmon get crispy in the air fryer and are tossed in a creamy, slightly spicy sauce that has just the right amount of heat and sweetness. The texture is perfectly crunchy on the outside and tender inside, making them a real crowd-pleaser.
I love making this recipe when I want something quick but special. Using the air fryer keeps the salmon juicy without any fuss, and the bang bang sauce is easy to whip up with simple ingredients like mayo, sriracha, and a touch of honey. I always find myself double-dipping because the sauce just makes everything taste that much better!
These bites are great as an appetizer at casual get-togethers or even as a main dish served over rice or a fresh salad. Whenever I bring these to a party, people always ask for the recipe. It’s such a simple and satisfying dish that feels a little fancy but is super easy to make at home.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh, skinless salmon fillets work best for tender, juicy bites. If you want a milder flavor, try using Atlantic salmon, or go wild with sockeye for a richer taste. Frozen salmon can work, just thaw fully and pat dry.
Olive Oil & Seasonings: Olive oil helps the salmon crisp up in the air fryer. If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika or a pinch of chili powder will add nice color and a bit of warmth.
Bang Bang Sauce: This sauce balances creaminess and heat with mayo, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha. For a lighter option, use Greek yogurt instead of mayo. Adjust sriracha to your preferred spice level or swap with another hot sauce you like.
Sweet Chili Sauce: Look for sweet chili sauce in Asian markets or supermarkets. If unavailable, mix honey with a touch of chili flakes and garlic for a similar effect.
How Can You Get Crispy and Tender Salmon Bites in the Air Fryer?
Cooking salmon in the air fryer is all about balance—getting the outside crispy while keeping the inside juicy.
- Pat the salmon dry before seasoning to remove moisture, so it crisps up better.
- Don’t overcrowd the basket; leave space between pieces for hot air to circulate.
- Flip or shake the bites halfway through cooking to brown evenly.
- Keep an eye on cooking time—8-10 minutes usually works, but thicker pieces may need a little more.
- Use a meat thermometer if unsure; salmon is perfectly done at about 145°F (63°C).
These tips help you get salmon bites with just the right crispy edges and tender centers every time.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Air fryer – This is key for getting crispy, evenly cooked salmon bites without extra oil.
- Mixing bowl – For tossing the salmon cubes with seasoning and sauce easily.
- Whisk or fork – Helpful to blend the bang bang sauce smooth and creamy.
- Tongs or a spatula – To gently turn or shake salmon bites in the air fryer for even cooking.
- Measuring spoons – For accurate spice and sauce ingredient measurements.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap salmon with shrimp or firm white fish like cod for a fresh twist while using the same sauce.
- Add chopped fresh cilantro or basil to the sauce for a brighter, herbaceous flavor.
- Mix in finely diced red bell peppers or cucumbers as a crunchy garnish to balance the spicy sauce.
- Use a blend of mayo and Greek yogurt in the sauce for a lighter but creamy texture.
How to Make Bang Bang Salmon Bites – Air Fryer Salmon Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salmon:
- 1 lb (450g) salmon fillet, skin removed and cut into bite-sized cubes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (black or white), optional
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced, for garnish
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- ⅓ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to your preferred spice level)
- 1 teaspoon honey (optional, for a hint of sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon lime juice (optional, for brightness)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 8-10 minutes to cook in the air fryer, making it a quick and easy dish to whip up. You’ll spend just a few minutes seasoning and mixing the sauce, then the salmon cooks quickly to a crispy, tender finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salmon:
Start by patting the salmon cubes dry with paper towels—this helps them get nice and crispy. In a bowl, toss the salmon pieces with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and sesame seeds until they’re evenly coated.
2. Preheat and Cook the Salmon:
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3-5 minutes. Arrange the salmon cubes in a single layer in the basket, making sure they’re not crowded. Cook for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket or turning the pieces halfway through for even cooking. The salmon should be cooked through and have a slightly crispy outside.
3. Make the Bang Bang Sauce:
While the salmon cooks, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and lime juice in a small bowl until smooth and creamy.
4. Toss and Serve:
When the salmon bites are ready, gently toss them with half of the Bang Bang sauce to coat them well. Arrange the salmon on a plate, drizzle with the remaining sauce if you like, and garnish with the sliced green onions. Serve right away, either as a tasty appetizer or with rice and veggies for a full meal.
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon, but be sure to thaw it completely in the fridge overnight and pat it dry before seasoning to ensure it crisps up nicely in the air fryer.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Bang Bang Salmon Bites in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the air fryer or oven to retain crispiness.
Can I Adjust the Spiciness of the Bang Bang Sauce?
Absolutely! Adjust the amount of sriracha to make the sauce milder or spicier according to your taste. You can also omit it entirely if you prefer no heat.
What Can I Serve With Bang Bang Salmon Bites?
They’re delicious on their own as an appetizer, but also great served over rice, alongside steamed vegetables, or with a fresh salad for a light and balanced meal.