When you’re craving something bold, crispy, and downright addictive, look no further than Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites. These sizzling bites of salmon are seared until perfectly golden, then tossed in a creamy, spicy-sweet Bang Bang sauce that will make your taste buds sing. They’re fast, flavorful, and completely irresistible—perfect for a weeknight dinner, party appetizer, or a fun addition to your weekly meal prep.
I first discovered Bang Bang sauce on shrimp at a seafood joint, and I knew instantly that it had potential beyond shellfish. When paired with crispy salmon, the flavor and texture combo is next-level. It’s the kind of dish that disappears quickly from the table and keeps people coming back for more.
Why You’ll Love Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, from prep to plate.
- Pan-Seared Perfection: Crispy edges, tender center.
- Saucy Goodness: The Bang Bang sauce is a creamy, spicy-sweet knockout.
- Perfect for Any Season: Light enough for summer, satisfying enough for winter.
Ingredients
For the Salmon Bites:
- 1½ lbs salmon fillets (skin removed, cut into 1-inch pieces)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup Thai sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
Optional Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
- Sliced green onions
- Sesame seeds
Kitchen Tools Needed
- Sharp knife and cutting board
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Large non-stick skillet
- Spatula or tongs
- Paper towels
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Salmon
Pat the salmon dry using paper towels—this is crucial for getting a nice crispy sear.
Cut into 1-inch cubes and place in a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and cayenne (if using). Toss gently until all pieces are evenly coated.
Step 2: Make the Bang Bang Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and lime juice until smooth.
Taste and adjust—add more sriracha for heat or honey for extra sweetness. Set aside.
Pro Tip: Make extra sauce—it’s great for dipping veggies or drizzling over rice bowls!
Step 3: Cook the Salmon
Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add a little olive oil to coat the bottom.
Place the salmon pieces in a single layer without overcrowding. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side, gently turning until all sides are crispy and golden brown.
Work in batches if necessary. Transfer cooked bites to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Step 4: Coat the Salmon
Choose your sauce style:
- Drizzle it: Place salmon bites on a serving platter and drizzle Bang Bang sauce over the top.
- Toss it: For full coating, add salmon to a bowl, pour the sauce over, and toss gently.
Pro Tip: If serving to a crowd, serve sauce on the side for dipping to keep salmon crispy longer.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Top with your choice of chopped parsley, green onions, or sesame seeds for extra flair.
Serve hot for best texture and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
These Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites are incredibly versatile:
- Appetizer: Serve on skewers or toothpicks for an easy finger food.
- Dinner Bowl: Pair with jasmine rice, avocado, and cucumber for a fresh rice bowl.
- Salad Topper: Add to a crunchy slaw or greens for a protein-packed salad.
- Taco Filling: Tuck into mini tortillas with slaw and drizzle with extra sauce.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Reheat in a skillet or air fryer to retain crispiness. Avoid microwaving if possible—it can soften the coating.
- Sauce: Store separately and rewhisk before using.
Recipe Variations
- Make It Low-Carb: Serve over cauliflower rice or in lettuce wraps.
- Air Fryer Option: Air fry at 400°F for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Oven-Baked: Bake at 425°F for 12–15 minutes, flipping once for even browning.
Tips for Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites
- Always pat the salmon dry before seasoning—moisture prevents browning.
- Use a hot skillet and don’t overcrowd the pan.
- Leave space between pieces so they sear instead of steam.
- If using skin-on salmon, remove the skin for even cooking and texture.
Final Thoughts
Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Potatoes might be a winter favorite, but these Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites shine all year long. Whether served as a main dish, a shareable snack, or as part of a sushi-style bowl, this recipe delivers bold flavor with minimal effort.
Make it once, and you’ll be hooked. The contrast of crispy salmon with creamy Bang Bang sauce is truly irresistible. Let me know how you serve yours—and don’t forget to double the sauce!
Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites
Ingredients
For the Salmon Bites:
- 1½ lbs salmon fillets skin removed, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper optional, for heat
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup Thai sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce adjust to taste
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
Optional Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or cilantro chopped
- Sliced green onions
- Sesame seeds
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Salmon
- Pat the salmon dry using paper towels—this is crucial for getting a nice crispy sear.
- Cut into 1-inch cubes and place in a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and cayenne (if using). Toss gently until all pieces are evenly coated.
Step 2: Make the Bang Bang Sauce
- In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and lime juice until smooth.
- Taste and adjust—add more sriracha for heat or honey for extra sweetness. Set aside.
Pro Tip: Make extra sauce—it’s great for dipping veggies or drizzling over rice bowls!
Step 3: Cook the Salmon
- Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add a little olive oil to coat the bottom.
- Place the salmon pieces in a single layer without overcrowding. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side, gently turning until all sides are crispy and golden brown.
- Work in batches if necessary. Transfer cooked bites to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Step 4: Coat the Salmon
- Choose your sauce style:
- Drizzle it: Place salmon bites on a serving platter and drizzle Bang Bang sauce over the top.
- Toss it: For full coating, add salmon to a bowl, pour the sauce over, and toss gently.
Pro Tip: If serving to a crowd, serve sauce on the side for dipping to keep salmon crispy longer.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Top with your choice of chopped parsley, green onions, or sesame seeds for extra flair.
- Serve hot for best texture and flavor.
Leave a Comment