Bang Bang Salmon Bites
These bang bang salmon bites are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and coated in a creamy, sweet, and spicy sauce that makes them impossible to resist. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners, meal prep bowls, or crowd-pleasing appetizers, this recipe delivers big flavor with minimal effort using either an air fryer or oven.
Ingredients
Salmon
- 1 lb salmon fillets, skinless and cubed cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 0.5 tsp salt
- 0.25 tsp black pepper
Bang Bang Sauce
- 0.5 cup mayonnaise
- 0.25 cup sweet chili sauce
- 1 tbsp sriracha adjust to taste
- 1 tbsp honey
Instructions
- Pat the salmon cubes very dry with paper towels. This helps remove excess moisture so the salmon can crisp properly.
- In a large bowl, toss the salmon with oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
- Air Fryer Method: Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the salmon bites in a single layer with space between pieces. Air fry for 7–9 minutes, shaking halfway through, until lightly golden and cooked through.
- Oven Method: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and spread the salmon bites out evenly. Bake for 10–12 minutes, broiling for the last minute if desired for extra browning.
- While the salmon cooks, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and honey in a small bowl. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Once the salmon is cooked, transfer it to a clean bowl and gently toss with the bang bang sauce while still hot. Serve immediately.
Notes
For the crispiest salmon bites, avoid overcrowding the air fryer or baking sheet. Always add the sauce after cooking to prevent sogginess. This recipe also works well with shrimp or tofu using the same method. For meal prep, store the sauce separately and toss just before serving.