If you love bold flavors, easy prep, and crave-worthy texture, then bang bang salmon bites need to be on your radar. This recipe combines tender chunks of salmon with a crispy coating and a signature sweet-and-spicy bang bang sauce that’s impossible to resist. Whether you’re prepping for a party, a weeknight dinner, or a game-day snack, these bites deliver on taste, texture, and convenience.
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Bang Bang Salmon Bites
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a bowl, whisk together mayo, sweet chili sauce, and Sriracha. Set aside.
- Pat salmon cubes dry, then toss gently with olive oil and panko (if using).
- Heat a skillet over medium-high. Add salmon cubes in a single layer; cook 3–4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through (or air fry at 400°F for 8–10 minutes).
- Remove from heat, transfer salmon to a mixing bowl, pour the Bang Bang sauce over and toss gently to coat.
- Serve warm, garnished with green onions or sesame seeds.
Notes
What Are Bang Bang Salmon Bites?
A Modern Twist on the Viral “Bang Bang” Flavor
Bang bang sauce started as a restaurant-famous topping—creamy, sweet, tangy, and spicy all at once. Originally paired with shrimp, the bang bang trend has evolved, finding its way to chicken, cauliflower, and now salmon. And let’s be real—salmon might be the best version yet.
These bites are typically made by cutting salmon into small, cube-like pieces, coating them lightly in seasoning or a crispy shell, and cooking until golden. Once done, they’re tossed or drizzled with that unforgettable sauce.
The result? A crave-worthy snack or meal that’s:
- Crunchy on the outside
- Tender and flaky inside
- Coated in flavor-packed, spicy sauce
How Salmon Makes This Version Healthier and Richer
Swapping shrimp or chicken for salmon adds some serious nutritional power:
- High in omega-3 fatty acids
- Rich in lean protein
- Packed with vitamins like B12 and D
And because salmon is naturally moist and flavorful, it holds up beautifully when baked or air-fried—no deep frying required. It’s a cleaner, more nutrient-rich option for fans of bold-flavored finger foods.
Ingredients for Bang Bang Salmon Bites
Key Ingredients for Crispy Salmon Bites
To make these bites irresistible, start with the right base. Here’s what you’ll need:
| Ingredient | Purpose | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Salmon fillet | Protein base | Skinless, boneless, cut into chunks |
| Cornstarch or panko | Light, crispy coating | Use for extra crunch (optional) |
| Salt & pepper | Base seasoning | Add garlic powder or paprika for flavor |
| Oil spray or light olive oil | Helps crisp edges | Needed if using air fryer or oven |
These ingredients ensure the salmon turns golden and crisp outside while staying tender inside. For gluten-free diets, skip the panko and use seasoned cornstarch instead.
Homemade Bang Bang Sauce Components
The magic of this dish lies in the bang bang sauce—creamy, sweet, tangy, and spicy. Here’s what you need for the classic version:
| Sauce Ingredient | Amount | Substitution Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Mayonnaise | ¼ cup | Use avocado mayo or Greek yogurt for lighter option |
| Sweet chili sauce | 2 tbsp | Adds sweetness + tang |
| Sriracha | 1 tbsp (or to taste) | Adjust heat based on your preference |
Whisk everything in a small bowl until smooth. Make a double batch if you’d like extra to use as a dip or sauce later.
Check out our sauce : Homemade Bang Bang Sauce
How to Make Bang Bang Salmon Bites
Step 1: Prep the Salmon Like a Pro
Start by grabbing a fresh, boneless salmon fillet. Slice it into small, even cubes—around 1 to 1.5 inches. Keeping the pieces the same size ensures they all cook at the same rate and come out tender on the inside.
Here’s how to prep them:
- Dry the salmon with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This step helps the surface crisp up better.
- Cut into chunks that are bite-sized but not too small—they should hold their shape while cooking.
- Season lightly with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of garlic powder or paprika if you like a flavor boost.
- Optional for crunch: Toss the salmon pieces in a bit of cornstarch or coat them lightly in panko breadcrumbs if you’re not gluten-free.
Step 2: Cook Your Way – Air Fryer, Oven, or Stovetop
You’ve got three great options for cooking bang bang salmon bites, each with its own benefits.
Air Fryer Technique (Light & Crunchy)
- Preheat your air fryer to 390°F (200°C).
- Mist the basket with a bit of cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Place the salmon cubes in a single layer, making sure there’s a little room between each piece for proper air circulation.
- Cook for 8–10 minutes, turning the pieces halfway through to ensure even crisping.
Why this rocks: You’ll get a satisfyingly crispy finish without drowning your salmon in oil—perfect if you’re aiming for a lighter option.
Oven-Baked Method (Great for Crowd-Size Batches)
- Turn your oven on and preheat it to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare a baking tray by lining it with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
- Spread the salmon pieces out across the tray so they’re not touching.
- Bake for 15 to 18 minutes, flipping the bites once during cooking so all sides brown up nicely.
Why it works: Ideal when you need to cook a large batch at once—just pop it in and let the oven do the heavy lifting while you prep the sauce or sides.
Skillet Method (Pan-Seared to Perfection)
- Warm 1 to 2 tablespoons of oil in a non-stick frying pan over medium-high heat.
- Add your seasoned salmon bites and sear each side for 2 to 3 minutes, or until a golden crust forms.
- Once cooked through and nicely browned, remove them from the pan and let them rest briefly.
Why it’s a winner: This method delivers unbeatable flavor and texture, especially if you love that crispy, pan-seared edge. Just keep an eye on them—they cook quickly!
Tips for Extra Crispy, Juicy Bang Bang Salmon Bites
1. Choose the Right Salmon Cut
To get the best texture, go for a firm, fresh fillet—skin removed and bones taken out. Look for cuts from the center portion of the fish, as they’re thicker and cook more evenly. Avoid thin or tail-end cuts, which can overcook quickly and turn dry.
2. Dry Before You Fry
Moisture is the enemy of crispiness. Always pat your salmon pieces completely dry with paper towels before seasoning or cooking. Removing excess water helps the surface crisp up better whether you’re baking, air frying, or pan searing.
3. Don’t Skip the Starch (Unless You Want To)
While these bites are naturally delicious on their own, a light dusting of cornstarch or arrowroot powder can take the crisp to the next level. It creates a thin coating that crisps up beautifully in both air fryers and ovens.
Want more crunch? Go a step further with panko breadcrumbs—they add a golden, satisfying texture. For gluten-free, stick to cornstarch or a GF breadcrumb blend.
4. Give Them Room to Breathe
Whether you’re baking or using an air fryer, don’t overcrowd the pan. Spread the salmon cubes out in a single layer with space between them. Overlapping leads to steaming, not crisping.
5. Add the Sauce Last
Bang bang sauce is full of flavor—but it’s also moisture-heavy. For crisp texture, wait until after cooking to toss or drizzle the sauce. If you coat them too early, you’ll lose that crunchy shell.
Serving Ideas and Pairings for Bang Bang Salmon Bites
Turn These Bites into a Full-On Meal or Appetizer
Bang bang salmon bites aren’t just a snack—they’re incredibly versatile. Whether you’re hosting guests or just making dinner for two, these spicy salmon chunks can easily fit into any part of your menu.
Here are a few fun and easy ways to serve them:
As a Main Dish
- On rice bowls – Add steamed rice, avocado, cucumber, shredded carrots, and drizzle with extra sauce for a satisfying salmon bowl.
- Over a salad – Toss them on a bed of mixed greens with a citrus vinaigrette for a low-carb, protein-packed lunch.
- With noodles – Serve over soba or rice noodles with stir-fried veggies and sesame oil.
As a Party Appetizer
- Serve them on toothpicks with a drizzle of bang bang sauce and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
- Plate them alongside a dipping sauce trio: bang bang, soy-ginger, and a lemon aioli.
As Tacos or Wraps
- Use small tortillas or lettuce leaves and top with slaw, avocado, and a squeeze of lime.
- Perfect for a fusion-style taco night!
Best Side Dishes to Pair With
Looking to round out the meal? These sides pair perfectly with the bold flavors of Bang Bang Salmon Bites:
| Side Dish Idea | Flavor Match |
|---|---|
| Coconut rice | Balances the heat with sweetness |
| Asian slaw | Adds crunch and freshness |
| Roasted sweet potatoes | Natural sweetness complements spice |
| Edamame or snap peas | Simple and crisp |
| Pickled veggies | Adds acidity and zing to the plate |
Storing, Reheating, and Meal Prep Tips
How to Store Leftover Bang Bang Salmon Bites the Right Way
Got leftovers? Lucky you—bang bang salmon bites keep well if you store them properly. Here’s how to keep them tasting as fresh as when they came out of the oven (or air fryer).
Refrigerator Storage
- Let the bites cool to room temperature first.
- Transfer to an airtight container lined with a paper towel to absorb extra moisture.
- Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezer Storage
- Place cooled salmon bites on a baking sheet and freeze until solid (about 1–2 hours).
- Then transfer them to a zip-top freezer bag or freezer-safe container.
- Label and freeze for up to 2 months.
They’re great to pull out for quick dinners, lunchboxes, or even high-protein snacks!
Reheating Without Losing That Crunch
The key to keeping bang bang salmon bites crispy when reheating is avoiding the microwave—unless you don’t mind them a little soft.
Best Reheating Methods:
- Air Fryer: Reheat at 350°F for 4–5 minutes. Restores crisp perfectly.
- Oven: Bake at 375°F for 6–8 minutes until warmed through.
- Skillet: Add a small splash of oil and pan-sear on medium for 2–3 minutes per side.
Avoid reheating in a covered container, as steam will ruin the texture.
Can You Meal Prep Bang Bang Salmon Bites?
Absolutely! These bites are meal prep friendly, especially when cooked in bulk and stored without sauce. Here’s how:
| Task | Tip |
|---|---|
| Pre-cut salmon | Store raw pieces in fridge up to 2 days ahead |
| Make sauce in advance | Keeps up to 7 days in a sealed jar |
| Pre-cook and freeze | Reheat when needed for a quick meal |
Pair with quick-cook rice, frozen veggies, or a salad kit for easy, balanced meals.
Bang Bang Salmon Variations and Diet Tweaks
Make It Work for Any Lifestyle
One of the best things about bang bang salmon bites is how flexible they are. Whether you’re following a specific diet or just want to try something new, you can easily adjust this recipe without losing flavor.
Low-Carb / Keto Versio
To keep things keto-friendly:
- Skip the breadcrumbs and use almond flour or crushed pork rinds for the coating.
- Replace sweet chili sauce with sugar-free chili garlic sauce or a low-carb sweetener blend.
- Sub Greek yogurt or avocado mayo for regular mayo.
These swaps reduce sugar and carbs while keeping that spicy, creamy punch intact.
Gluten-Free Adaptations
This recipe is naturally gluten-free if you:
- Use gluten-free panko or skip the coating entirely.
- Double-check the labels on chili sauce and sriracha for hidden gluten.
- Air-fry or bake to avoid flour-based coatings used in deep frying.
Dairy-Free Options
No dairy? No problem. Bang bang sauce is naturally dairy-free if you:
Swap the Protein
No salmon on hand? Try these bang bang variations:
- Shrimp – The OG bang bang star.
- Chicken – Use diced breast or thigh meat.
- Tofu or Tempeh – For a vegetarian spin.
- Cauliflower florets – Makes a great plant-based party snack.
Each option pairs well with the bang bang sauce and can be prepared with the same cooking methods.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bang Bang Salmon Bites
What is bang bang sauce made of?
Traditional bang bang sauce is made from three simple ingredients:
Mayonnaise for creaminess
Sweet chili sauce for sweetness and tang
Sriracha for heat and depth
You can adjust it by using Greek yogurt for a lighter version, or adding lime juice or honey to tweak the flavor to your liking.
Can I use frozen salmon for bang bang salmon bites?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw the salmon completely and pat it very dry before cutting it into chunks. Excess moisture will prevent a crispy finish and dilute the seasoning. Use paper towels to remove as much moisture as possible after thawing.
How do I keep salmon bites crispy after cooking?
Here are a few quick tips:
Don’t overcrowd the tray or air fryer basket—leave space between each piece.
Always add the sauce after cooking, not before.
Use cornstarch or panko for a crunchy coating.
Reheat in the air fryer or oven, not the microwave.
Are bang bang salmon bites healthy?
Yes, especially if baked or air-fried. Salmon is high in protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and important nutrients like vitamin D and B12. Making your own sauce lets you control the sugar and sodium levels too. For an even healthier twist, use Greek yogurt or avocado mayo in the sauce.
Can I make bang bang salmon bites in the air fryer?
Absolutely! The air fryer is one of the best methods for this recipe. It uses little to no oil, cooks quickly, and gives you that irresistible crispy texture without deep frying. Cook at 390°F (200°C) for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
What can I serve with bang bang salmon bites?
Some of the best pairings include:
Coconut rice or jasmine rice
Slaw or crunchy cabbage salad
Lettuce wraps or taco shells
Pickled cucumbers or radishes
Dipping sauces like soy-ginger or lemon aioli
They’re also great on top of bowls or salads for a fast and flavorful meal.
Conclusion: Why Bang Bang Salmon Bites Are a Must-Try
Whether you’re hosting a party, meal prepping for the week, or just craving something crispy and spicy, bang bang salmon bites check all the boxes. They’re easy to make, packed with flavor, and totally customizable for different dietary needs.
With just a few pantry ingredients and your choice of cooking method—air fryer, oven, or skillet—you can whip up restaurant-style bites in under 30 minutes. Add that creamy bang bang sauce and you’re golden.
So next time you’re in the mood for something bold, give these spicy salmon bites a go—you won’t regret it.
Want to explore more sauce variations and plating styles?
Check out this flavorful version by Delish: Delish’s Bang Bang Salmon Recipe