Ever bite into something so crispy, flavorful, and downright addictive that you wonder where it’s been all your life? That’s exactly how I felt the first time I made these Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites. Crunchy on the outside, tender on the inside, and smothered in a creamy, sweet-spicy sauce this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, stuffing them into tacos, or piling them on top of Hello Fresh rice bowls, these bites are the real deal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes, making weeknight meals a breeze.
- Big on Flavor – A perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and savory in every bite.
- Versatile – Serve them as a main dish, snack, or party appetizer.
Ingredients Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites
For the Salmon Bites:
- Salmon – Skinless fillets, cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
- Paprika – Adds a warm, smoky undertone.
- Garlic Powder – Infuses rich, savory flavor.
- Kosher Salt & Pepper – Enhances the natural taste of the salmon.
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- Mayonnaise – The creamy base that holds the sauce together.
- Thai Sweet Chili Sauce – A little sweet, a little spicy, and absolutely delicious.
- Sriracha – Brings the heat! Adjust to your spice preference.
- Honey – Balances the spice with a touch of natural sweetness.
Note: Full ingredient measurements can be found in the recipe card below.
How to Make Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bit
1. Prep the Salmon
- Why Patting the Salmon Dry is Important:
Excess moisture on the salmon can prevent proper browning and crisping. Use a paper towel to pat the pieces dry before seasoning. - Best Salmon to Use:
Skinless salmon fillets work best. You can use fresh or previously frozen salmon, but if using frozen, make sure it’s fully thawed and dried well. - Seasoning Tips:
- Paprika: Adds a mild smokiness and enhances color.
- Garlic powder: Brings depth of flavor.
- Salt & Pepper: Enhances taste and balances the dish.
- Optional: Add a pinch of cayenne for extra heat.
2. Cook the Salmon
- Best Pan for Crispy Salmon:
A non-stick or cast-iron skillet works best to prevent sticking and get an even sear. - Oil Selection:
Use a neutral, high-smoke point oil like avocado, canola, or vegetable oil. - Cooking Technique for Maximum Crispiness:
- Heat the oil until shimmering before adding the salmon.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan work in batches if needed.
- Avoid moving the salmon around too much; let it develop a crust before flipping.
3. Make the Bang Bang Sauce
- Key Ingredients & Their Roles:
- Mayonnaise: Creates a creamy, rich base.
- Thai Sweet Chili Sauce: Adds sweetness, tanginess, and a little spice.
- Sriracha: Provides heat and depth of flavor.
- Honey: Balances the spiciness with natural sweetness.
- Customizing the Flavor:
- Want it spicier? Add more sriracha or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Want it tangier? Squeeze in a bit of fresh lime juice.
- Want it lighter? Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise.
4. Toss & Serve
- Best Way to Toss Without Breaking the Salmon:
- Gently fold the sauce over the salmon using a spoon or spatula.
- If you prefer, serve the sauce on the side for dipping instead.
- Serving Ideas:
- Over a bed of jasmine rice with steamed broccoli.
- In tacos with shredded cabbage and a squeeze of lime.
- As an appetizer with toothpicks for easy dipping.
Extra Pro Tips Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites
- For Ultimate Crispiness:
If you want an extra crunch, lightly coat the salmon pieces in cornstarch before cooking. - Make it Healthier:
Air-fry the salmon at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway. - Storage & Reheating:
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in an air fryer or skillet to bring back crispiness.
Tips for the Best Salmon Bites
- Pat the salmon dry – Moisture is the enemy of crispiness!
- Cook in batches – Overcrowding the pan leads to steaming instead of crisping.
- Adjust the spice level – Love heat? Add extra sriracha. Prefer mild? Reduce it.
How to Serve Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites
- Over Rice – These bites are fantastic over a bowl of fluffy Hello Fresh rice bowls with fresh veggies.
- In Tacos – Load them into tortillas with shredded cabbage and a drizzle of extra sauce.
- With a Side of Yumm Sauce – This creamy, tangy sauce takes them to another level!
Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
- Make Ahead – The bang bang sauce can be prepared up to 2 days in advance and stored in the fridge.
- Storage – Leftover salmon bites can be kept in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Reheating – Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to maintain crispiness.
Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites
Equipment
- Air Fryer or Skillet
Ingredients
For the Salmon Bites
- 1 lb salmon skinless fillets, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tsp paprika adds a warm, smoky undertone
- 1 tsp garlic powder infuses rich, savory flavor
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt enhances the natural taste of the salmon
- 1/4 tsp black pepper for seasoning
For the Bang Bang Sauce
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise the creamy base that holds the sauce together
- 2 tbsp Thai sweet chili sauce a little sweet, a little spicy, and absolutely delicious
- 1 tbsp sriracha brings the heat! Adjust to your spice preference
- 1 tsp honey balances the spice with a touch of natural sweetness
Instructions
- In a bowl, season the salmon pieces with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F or heat a skillet over medium-high heat with a little oil.
- Cook the salmon bites in a single layer for about 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and cooked through.
- Meanwhile, mix mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and honey in a small bowl to create the Bang Bang sauce.
- Once the salmon is cooked, drizzle with Bang Bang sauce or toss to coat. Serve immediately!
Notes
FAQs Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites
Is This Recipe Gluten-Free?
What to Check in Store-Bought Thai Sweet Chili Sauce:
Some brands add soy sauce or wheat-based thickeners, so look for one labeled gluten-free.
Alternative Gluten-Free Options: Make a homemade sweet chili sauce using honey, rice vinegar, chili flakes, and cornstarch.
Swap the store-bought sauce for a mix of honey and hot sauce for a simpler option.
What Can I Use Instead of Sriracha?
If you don’t have sriracha or want a different heat level, try these:
Milder Heat: A few drops of Frank’s Red Hot or a dash of smoked paprika.
Medium Heat: Chili garlic sauce (more garlicky, less sweet than sriracha).
Spicier Kick: A pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper.
Non-Spicy Option: Just leave it out, or replace it with a bit more Thai sweet chili sauce.
Can I Bake Instead of Pan-Fry?
Yes! Here’s how to bake it for crispy results:
Temperature: Bake at 400°F (200°C).
Time: 12-15 minutes, or until salmon is golden brown and flakes easily.
Extra Crispiness Tip: Lightly coat the salmon in cornstarch before baking and spray with a bit of oil.
Air Fryer Alternative:
400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes, shaking halfway.
What Sides Go Well with Bang Bang Salmon?
This dish pairs best with light, fresh sides that balance the creamy, spicy sauce. Here are a few ideas:
Grains & Rice
Steamed jasmine rice
Cilantro-lime rice
Quinoa for a high-protein option
Vegetables
Steamed broccoli, asparagus, or bok choy
Roasted Brussels sprouts with a drizzle of honey
Cucumber salad with a soy-lime dressing
Taco or Wrap Idea
Serve salmon bites in a lettuce wrap for a low-carb option
Use in fish tacos with slaw and avocado
Dipping Sauces
Extra Bang Bang Sauce on the side
A cooling yogurt-based sauce (Greek yogurt + lime juice + cilantro)
Conclusion Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites
There you have it crispy, saucy, and downright delicious Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites that are sure to be a hit! So, what are you waiting for? Grab your salmon, whip up some bang bang sauce, and enjoy this irresistible dish. Let me know how it turns out!