Bang Bang Salmon Bites are crispy little pieces of salmon packed with flavor and a nice kick of spicy cream sauce. The salmon is perfectly cooked in the air fryer, which makes the outside crispy without drying out the inside. This recipe brings together tender fish goodness and a creamy, spicy bang bang sauce that’s hard to resist.
I love making this when I want a quick, tasty dinner that doesn’t feel boring. Using the air fryer is my go-to because it’s fast and cuts down on oil, so the bites still feel light and fresh. Plus, I like how the sauce brings a fun, spicy creaminess that everyone asks for more of. The combo of crispy salmon with that sauce always hits the right spot.
I usually serve these bites with a side of steamed veggies or a simple salad to balance out all the flavors. They’re great for a weeknight dinner or even as a snack when friends come over. If you like a little heat and crispy fish, Bang Bang Salmon Bites might just become your new favorite!
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Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon with the skin removed works best for even air frying. If you prefer, wild-caught salmon adds extra flavor, but farmed is fine too. For a low-carb option, this works perfectly.
Spices: Garlic powder and smoked paprika give that smoky, savory crust. If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika plus a pinch of cumin can work in a pinch.
Bang Bang Sauce: The mayo base mixed with sweet chili sauce brings creaminess and sweetness, while sriracha adds heat. For a vegan version, try vegan mayo and swap honey for maple syrup or agave.
Sesame Seeds & Chives: These add a nutty crunch and fresh brightness. You can swap chives for green onions or fresh parsley if you like.
How Can I Get Crispy Salmon Bites in the Air Fryer Without Drying Them Out?
Cooking salmon in the air fryer can be tricky – too long and it dries, too short and it’s undercooked. Here’s how I do it:
- Pat the salmon dry before seasoning to help create a crisp surface.
- Use a little olive oil to help with browning and prevent sticking.
- Cook at 400°F for 7-9 minutes, flipping halfway. Check at 7 minutes to avoid overcooking.
- Arrange pieces in a single layer with space around them for air circulation.
- Use smaller, uniform bite-sized pieces so they cook evenly.
This way, you get salmon that’s crispy on the outside but tender and juicy inside every time.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Air fryer – It crisps the salmon bites quickly without extra oil, making them light and tasty.
- Mixing bowl – Perfect for tossing the salmon cubes with oil and spices evenly.
- Tongs or spatula – Helps you flip the salmon bites halfway through cooking without breaking them.
- Small whisk or fork – To mix the bang bang sauce smoothly and quickly.
- Measuring spoons – For accurate spice and sauce ingredient amounts to get the flavor just right.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap salmon with shrimp for a quicker cook time and a slightly sweet seafood flavor.
- Add a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the seasoning for extra heat if you like it spicy.
- Mix in chopped cilantro or basil into the bang bang sauce for fresh herb notes.
- Top with chopped toasted peanuts or cashews to add crunch and a nutty twist.
Bang Bang Salmon Bites – Air Fryer Salmon Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Salmon Bites:
- 1 lb fresh salmon fillet, skin removed and cut into bite-sized cubes
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp cracked black pepper
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional)
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh chives or green onions, for garnish
- Lemon wedges, for serving
For The Bang Bang Sauce:
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp sweet chili sauce
- 1 tsp sriracha (adjust more or less to desired spice level)
- 1 tsp honey or sugar
- 1 tsp rice vinegar or lime juice
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10-15 minutes to prep and cook. The salmon bites air fry quickly in 7-9 minutes, plus a few minutes to mix up the sauce. You’ll have a delicious, crispy dish ready in under 20 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare and Season Salmon:
Pat the salmon cubes dry with paper towels. Put them in a bowl and pour the olive oil over them. Toss until all pieces are coated. Sprinkle the garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, cracked black pepper, and sesame seeds (if using) over the salmon. Toss gently so all cubes get an even coating of spices.
2. Preheat Air Fryer and Cook Salmon:
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3-5 minutes. Place the salmon cubes in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they don’t touch. Cook for 7-9 minutes, flipping the pieces halfway through. The salmon should be cooked through and have a nicely crisp outside.
3. Make the Bang Bang Sauce and Serve:
While the salmon cooks, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and rice vinegar (or lime juice) in a small bowl until smooth. Adjust the heat and sweetness to your taste. Arrange the cooked salmon bites on a plate, then drizzle with the sauce or serve it on the side for dipping. Garnish with chopped chives or green onions and extra sesame seeds, and serve with lemon wedges for a fresh touch.
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 seasoning. This helps achieve the best crispy texture 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 or microwave to keep them crispy and delicious.
Can I Make the Bang Bang Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! The sauce can be made up to 2 days ahead and stored in the fridge. Give it a quick stir before serving to recombine any separated ingredients.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
You can easily control the heat by adding more or less sriracha to the sauce. If you want it milder, reduce the sriracha or omit it altogether for a creamy but mild flavor.
