If you’re looking for a dish that’s crispy, flavorful, and packed with a spicy-sweet kick, these Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites are the perfect choice!
This recipe combines tender, bite-sized salmon pieces seasoned to perfection and seared until golden brown.
Tossed in a creamy, spicy, and slightly tangy Bang Bang sauce, these salmon bites are irresistibly delicious.
Ingredients:
For the Salmon Bites:
1 1/2 pounds salmon fillets (skin removed, cut into bite-sized pieces).
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder.
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper.
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat).
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup Thai sweet chili sauce.
1 tablespoon sriracha sauce (adjust for preferred heat level)
1 tablespoon honey.
1 tablespoon lime juice (freshly squeezed)
Optional Garnish:
Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped.
Green onions, sliced
Sesame seeds.
Directions:
Step 1: Prep the Salmon
Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels to ensure a crispy texture. Remove any skin and cut the salmon into 1-inch bite-sized cubes.
Place the salmon pieces in a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
Toss gently to coat the salmon evenly with the seasoning.
Step 2: Make the Bang Bang Sauce
In a small mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and lime juice until smooth and creamy.
Taste and adjust the sauce—add more sriracha for heat or honey for sweetness. Set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Salmon
Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat and add a small amount of olive oil to prevent sticking.
Once the oil is hot, add the salmon pieces in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Work in batches if needed.
Variations of Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites
Air Fryer Version
Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
Lightly spray the salmon bites with oil and arrange them in a single layer.
Cook for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until crispy.
Oven-Baked Version
Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
Place the salmon bites on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Bake for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and cooked through.
Panko-Crusted Salmon Bites
For extra crunch, coat the seasoned salmon bites in panko breadcrumbs before cooking.
Lightly press the breadcrumbs onto each piece to ensure they stick.
Bang Bang Shrimp or Chicken
Substitute the salmon with shrimp (peeled and deveined) or chicken breast (cut into bite-sized pieces).
Adjust cooking times accordingly—shrimp cooks in 3-4 minutes per side, while chicken needs 6-7 minutes per side.
Low-Carb/Keto Version
Swap the honey for a sugar-free sweetener in the Bang Bang sauce.
Serve over cauliflower rice or a fresh salad for a keto-friendly meal.
Spicier Option
Add extra sriracha or red pepper flakes to the sauce for more heat.
A drizzle of spicy chili oil can also enhance the flavor.
Serving Ideas
Serve in lettuce wraps for a light and fresh meal.
Use as a taco filling with slaw and avocado.
Pair with steamed rice or noodles for a satisfying bowl.
Would you like any specific variation tailored to your taste?
Storage Tips for Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites
Refrigeration:
Store leftover salmon bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Keep the Bang Bang sauce separate to maintain the crispiness.
Reheating:
Skillet: Reheat in a pan over medium heat for 3-4 minutes to restore crispiness.
Air Fryer: Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes.
Oven: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes.
Microwave (not recommended): This may make the salmon soft instead of crispy.
Freezing (Not Ideal):
Salmon bites can be frozen for up to 1 month, but the texture may change.
Freeze on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a freezer-safe container.
Reheat from frozen in the oven or air fryer for best results.
Bang Bang Sauce Storage:
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Stir well before using again.
Would you like meal prep tips for this recipe?
Serving Suggestions for Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites
As an Appetizer
Serve on a platter with toothpicks and extra Bang Bang sauce for dipping.
Garnish with sesame seeds, chopped cilantro, or green onions for a vibrant touch.
In Tacos
Fill warm corn or flour tortillas with salmon bites.
Add shredded cabbage, avocado slices, and a drizzle of Bang Bang sauce.
Serve with lime wedges for extra freshness.
Over Rice or Noodles
Serve over steamed jasmine rice, coconut rice, or quinoa for a hearty meal.
Toss with stir-fried noodles or soba noodles for an Asian-inspired dish.
In a Salad Bowl
Top a fresh salad with salmon bites, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and sliced avocado.
Use Bang Bang sauce as a creamy dressing.
With Roasted or Steamed Veggies
Pair with roasted broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts for a balanced meal.
Serve with a side of mashed sweet potatoes or cauliflower puree.
Lettuce Wraps
Use butter lettuce or romaine leaves as a low-carb alternative.
Add shredded carrots, cucumber, and a drizzle of sauce for crunch and flavor.
Buddha Bowl Style
Arrange salmon bites with brown rice, avocado, edamame, shredded carrots, and pickled onions in a bowl.
Drizzle with extra Bang Bang sauce and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
Which serving style do you prefer?