Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites – Sweet, Spicy, and Totally Irresistible!
These Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites are the ultimate flavor bomb! Tender salmon cubes are coated in a crunchy crust and tossed in a creamy, spicy-sweet Bang Bang sauce made with mayo, sriracha, sweet chili, and honey. Whether you're serving them as a party appetizer, stuffing them into tacos, or topping a rice bowl, these bites deliver restaurant-quality taste in under 30 minutes. Air fryer, oven, or pan-seared—this versatile recipe is a must-try for seafood lovers and spice fans alike!
Equipment
- Cutting board & knife
- Mixing bowls
- Air fryer, skillet, or oven
- Tongs or spatula
- Wire rack (optional for oven)
- Small whisk or spoon (for sauce)
Ingredients
For the Salmon Bites
- 1 lb fresh salmon fillet, skin removed, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 1 egg, beaten (for coating)
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (or almond flour for low-carb)
- Optional: ½ cup buttermilk + 1 tbsp hot sauce (for marinade)
For the Bang Bang Sauce
- ½ cup mayonnaise (Kewpie preferred)
- ¼ cup sweet chili sauce
- 1–2 tbsp sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp lime juice
Instructions
- Prep the Salmon: Pat salmon cubes dry. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Optional: marinate in buttermilk and hot sauce for 15 minutes.
- Make the Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together mayo, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and lime juice. Chill until ready to serve.
- Coat the Bites: Dip salmon cubes in beaten egg, then press into panko or almond flour. Let rest for 5 minutes to set coating.
Cook Your Way:
- Pan-Fry: Heat oil in skillet over medium-high. Cook bites 2–3 minutes per side until golden.
- Air Fryer: Spray basket lightly. Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Oven: Bake at 425°F (220°C) on a wire rack for 12–15 minutes until crisp.
Serve: Drizzle sauce over bites or serve on the side. Garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, or cilantro.
Notes
- For extra crunch, drizzle sauce just before serving.
- Use fresh salmon for best texture.
- Make extra sauce—it’s great on veggies, sandwiches, and bowls.
- To reheat, use air fryer or oven uncovered to restore crispiness.
- Swap salmon for shrimp, tofu, or chicken for variation.
- Gluten-free? Use GF panko or almond flour.
- Low-carb? Skip breadcrumbs and use crushed pork rinds.