Bang Bang Salmon Bites

Crispy, juicy, and bursting with bold flavors, Bang Bang Salmon Bites are the ultimate appetizer or quick dinner! These bites feature tender salmon coated in a crunchy, golden crust, drizzled (or tossed) in a creamy, spicy-sweet Bang Bang sauce that will leave your taste buds dancing. The perfect mix of crunch, heat, and richness makes them an instant favorite.

Best of all, these bites can be made in the oven or air fryer, making them a healthier alternative to traditional fried seafood. Serve them on their own, over rice, or with a fresh salad for a balanced and flavorful meal. Whether you’re entertaining guests or just craving something delicious, these salmon bites will not disappoint!

Full Recipe

Ingredients:

1 lb salmon fillet, skin removed, cut into bite-sized cubes
1/2 cup cornstarch
2 eggs, beaten
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/4 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
1 tablespoon Sriracha (adjust for spice preference)
1 teaspoon honey
1 teaspoon rice vinegar
1 teaspoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon chopped green onions (for garnish)
1 teaspoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
Cooking oil spray or 2 tablespoons olive oil

Directions:

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) or heat an air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
Set up a breading station: place cornstarch in one bowl, beaten eggs in another, and mix panko with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika in a third.
Dip each salmon bite into cornstarch, then egg, then panko mixture, pressing lightly to coat.
Arrange salmon bites on a lined baking sheet or air fryer basket. Lightly spray with oil.
Bake for 12-15 minutes (or air fry for 8-10 minutes), flipping halfway, until golden brown and crispy.
While salmon is cooking, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, honey, rice vinegar, and soy sauce to create the bang bang sauce.
Toss cooked salmon bites in the sauce or drizzle over the top.
Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds. Serve immediately!

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal per serving | Servings: 4 servings

Bang Bang Salmon Bites – A Flavor Explosion in Every Bite

Bang Bang Salmon Bites are the perfect combination of crispy, juicy, and spicy-sweet goodness. Inspired by the famous Bang Bang Shrimp, this recipe swaps shrimp for tender salmon pieces, giving it a unique seafood twist. Coated in a light, crunchy breading and tossed in a creamy, spicy sauce, these bites deliver bold flavors with every mouthful. Whether you’re looking for a delicious appetizer, a protein-packed snack, or a quick dinner option, this dish is a must-try.

Why You’ll Love Bang Bang Salmon Bites

This recipe stands out because it is:

Quick & Easy – Ready in just 30 minutes, making it a great weeknight meal.
Healthier Alternative – Uses an oven or air fryer instead of deep frying.
Packed with Flavor – The combination of crispy salmon and creamy, spicy sauce is irresistible.
Versatile – Can be served as an appetizer, main dish, or even in tacos and salads.
Customizable – Adjust the spice level or swap ingredients to fit your taste preferences.

What Is Bang Bang Sauce?

The magic of this recipe lies in the Bang Bang sauce—a creamy, spicy, and slightly sweet condiment that enhances the crispy salmon bites. The sauce typically combines mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and Sriracha, giving it a balance of heat and sweetness. Some variations include honey or rice vinegar to add extra depth to the flavor. Originally made famous by Bonefish Grill’s Bang Bang Shrimp, this sauce has since become a favorite addition to many seafood and chicken dishes.

Cooking Methods: Oven vs. Air Fryer

One of the best aspects of this recipe is its adaptability. You can cook these salmon bites in the oven or an air fryer, depending on your preference.

Oven Method: Baking the salmon bites at 400°F (200°C) results in a crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender. This method is great for those who prefer a hands-off approach.
Air Fryer Method: Air frying at 375°F (190°C) gives an even crispier texture in a shorter amount of time, making it a great choice for a quick and healthier version.

What to Serve with Bang Bang Salmon Bites

These crispy, spicy salmon bites pair well with a variety of sides and accompaniments, including:

Rice or Quinoa – A bed of jasmine rice, brown rice, or quinoa balances the spice and adds a filling component.
Fresh Salads – A simple cucumber salad, coleslaw, or mixed greens with a light vinaigrette complements the bold flavors.
Tacos – Stuff the salmon bites into warm tortillas with shredded cabbage, avocado, and extra Bang Bang sauce for an irresistible taco variation.
Roasted or Steamed Vegetables – Asparagus, broccoli, or green beans make a nutritious side.
French Fries or Sweet Potato Fries – A crispy side to keep things fun and indulgent.

How to Make This Recipe Gluten-Free

If you’re following a gluten-free diet, you can still enjoy Bang Bang Salmon Bites by making a few simple swaps:

Use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs instead of regular ones.
Substitute tamari or coconut aminos for soy sauce in the sauce.
Ensure that all other ingredients, including cornstarch and seasonings, are certified gluten-free.

Tips for the Best Bang Bang Salmon Bites

To make sure your salmon bites turn out perfectly crispy and flavorful, keep these tips in mind:

Use Fresh Salmon – Fresh, high-quality salmon works best for this recipe. If using frozen salmon, make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before coating.
Cut Evenly-Sized Pieces – This ensures that the bites cook evenly and achieve a uniform crispiness.
Don’t Skip the Breading Process – Coating the salmon in cornstarch, then egg, then panko ensures a light and crispy texture.
Lightly Spray with Oil – Whether baking or air frying, a light mist of cooking spray helps achieve a golden crust.
Serve Immediately – These salmon bites taste best when fresh and crispy. If left sitting too long, they may lose their crunch.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

If you have any leftovers (though they’re so delicious, it’s unlikely!), here’s how to store and reheat them properly:

Storage: Keep leftover salmon bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating: To maintain crispiness, reheat in an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes or in an oven at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the breading soggy.

Variations and Additions

Want to experiment with different flavors? Here are some fun variations:

Spicy Kick: Add extra Sriracha or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce for more heat.
Garlic Lovers: Mix minced garlic into the sauce for a rich, garlicky flavor.
Coconut Crusted: Use shredded coconut mixed with panko for a tropical twist.
Asian-Inspired: Add a touch of ginger or sesame oil to the sauce for extra depth.
Honey Garlic: Swap Sriracha for honey and garlic powder for a sweet and savory variation.

Is This Recipe Kid-Friendly?

Yes! If making this recipe for kids or those sensitive to spice, simply reduce or omit the Sriracha in the Bang Bang sauce. The sweet chili sauce still provides flavor without overwhelming heat. You can also serve the sauce on the side for dipping instead of tossing the salmon bites in it.

Conclusion

Bang Bang Salmon Bites are the perfect way to enjoy a restaurant-quality dish at home. With their crispy coating, tender salmon, and bold Bang Bang sauce, they offer a delightful balance of texture and flavor. Whether served as an appetizer, main course, or in tacos and bowls, this dish is guaranteed to impress.

Not only is this recipe easy to make, but it’s also adaptable to different cooking methods and dietary preferences. With minimal ingredients and just 30 minutes of cooking time, you can have a delicious and satisfying meal ready in no time.

Give these Bang Bang Salmon Bites a try, and let their crispy, spicy, and savory goodness elevate your next meal!

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