Bang Bang Salmon Bites are crispy little salmon pieces coated in a flavorful sauce that hits just the right balance of spicy and sweet. Using an air fryer helps get the outside perfectly crispy while keeping the inside tender and flaky. These bites come together quickly and are packed with big flavors thanks to the bang bang sauce drizzled on top.
I love making these salmon bites when I want a tasty snack or a fun appetizer that feels a little special but doesn’t take forever. The air fryer is a game changer here because it makes them nice and crunchy without needing a lot of oil. I usually double the bang bang sauce because it’s the best part — creamy with a little kick, perfect for dipping or drizzling.
These bites are great for sharing at parties or even as a satisfying lunch with some rice or veggies on the side. I also find they’re awesome for meal prep since they keep well and reheat nicely in the air fryer. If you’re looking for a no-fuss way to enjoy salmon with a little spicy twist, this recipe’s a real winner in my book.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon is best for juicy bites. I like skinless fillets for easier cutting and cooking. If you’re short on fresh, frozen works—just thaw fully first.
Olive Oil & Soy Sauce: These add flavor and help caramelize the salmon. Swap soy with tamari for gluten-free, or use coconut aminos for a soy-free option.
Honey or Maple Syrup: They balance the heat with sweetness. Maple syrup is great if you want to avoid honey or for a vegan-friendly sauce.
Bang Bang Sauce Ingredients: Mayonnaise creates creaminess, sweet chili adds just-right sweetness, and sriracha brings the heat. Adjust sriracha or swap for any hot sauce you like.
How Do You Get Crispy, Tender Salmon Bites in the Air Fryer?
Getting the perfect texture takes a bit of care:
- Pat salmon dry before seasoning to ensure crispiness.
- Don’t overcrowd the basket; give each piece space so hot air can circulate and crisp all sides.
- Shake or gently turn the bites halfway through cooking to brown evenly.
- Keep air fryer temps around 400°F for a nice crust without drying out the salmon.
With these tips, you’ll get salmon that’s crispy on the outside and tender inside, just right for that bang bang sauce to shine.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Air fryer – it crisps the salmon bites perfectly without extra oil and cooks them quickly.
- Mixing bowl – great for tossing salmon cubes with oil, spices, and sauce evenly.
- Measuring spoons – help you get the sauce flavors just right every time.
- Whisk or fork – to blend the bang bang sauce until smooth and creamy.
- Sharp knife and cutting board – for cutting salmon into even bite-sized pieces.
- Small serving bowl – perfect for serving the bang bang sauce on the side.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use shrimp instead of salmon for a quick-shellfish alternative that cooks fast and pairs well with bang bang sauce.
- Add a squeeze of fresh lime or lemon juice on top for bright, zesty notes that balance the creamy sauce.
- Mix in finely chopped cilantro or basil for an herby twist and extra freshness.
- For milder heat, swap sriracha with sweet chili sauce only; for extra spice, add a pinch of cayenne or chili flakes.
How to Make Bang Bang Salmon Bites – Air Fryer Salmon Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salmon Bites:
- 1 pound salmon fillet, skin removed and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for smoky flavor)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 2 green onions, finely chopped (for garnish)
- Black sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1–2 teaspoons sriracha (adjust for spice preference)
- 1 teaspoon lime juice
Time Needed
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep, 8-10 minutes to cook in the air fryer, and just a few minutes to mix the sauce. In total, you’re looking at around 20 minutes from start to finish—perfect for a quick, delicious snack or meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salmon Bites:
Pat your salmon cubes dry with paper towels. Put them into a mixing bowl and drizzle with olive oil, soy sauce, and honey. Sprinkle in the garlic powder, smoked paprika if using, and some salt and black pepper. Toss gently so each piece is evenly coated with the flavors.
2. Preheat and Cook in the Air Fryer:
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (about 200°C) for 5 minutes. Spread the salmon cubes in a single layer in the basket, making sure they aren’t crowded. This helps them get crispy all around. Cook for 8 to 10 minutes, shaking the basket or turning the bites halfway through for even cooking. The salmon should turn golden and flaky.
3. Whip up the Bang Bang Sauce:
While the salmon cooks, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and lime juice in a small bowl. Taste and add more sriracha if you want it spicier. This creamy sauce will add a wonderful kick to your salmon bites.
4. Serve and Enjoy:
Place the cooked salmon bites on a plate. Drizzle with the bang bang sauce or serve it on the side for dipping. Sprinkle chopped green onions and black sesame seeds on top for a fresh, colorful finish. Serve immediately as a tasty appetizer, snack, or with rice and salad for a full meal.
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon, but make sure to thaw it completely in the fridge before cutting and cooking. Pat it dry well to avoid excess moisture, which helps achieve crispy bites in the air fryer.
Can I Make the Bang Bang Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! The sauce can be made a day in advance and stored in an airtight container in the fridge. Give it a good stir before serving as the ingredients may separate slightly.
How Should I Store Leftover Salmon Bites?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm them gently in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-5 minutes to keep them crispy.
What Are Some Good Serving Ideas for Bang Bang Salmon Bites?
They’re great as a snack or appetizer! You can also serve them over steamed rice or a fresh salad for a light meal. Roasted veggies on the side pair nicely too.
