If you’re looking to wow your taste buds with a dish that’s bursting with flavor yet incredibly easy to whip up, then these Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon Bites are about to become your new go-to. Imagine tender, juicy salmon pieces coated in a luscious, spicy-sweet bang bang sauce, all perfectly crispy thanks to the magic of the air fryer. This recipe brings together the richness of salmon with a tangy kick that’s both comforting and exciting. Whether you’re cooking for a quick weeknight meal or impressing guests, these bites hit every note of deliciousness.

Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon Bites Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Don’t be fooled by the simplicity of this ingredient list—each component plays a vital role in creating the perfect balance of taste, texture, and color in your Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon Bites. From the seasoning that adds a smoky warmth to the creamy yet spicy bang bang sauce, everything works together harmoniously.

Salmon (1 ½ pounds): Choose fresh, skinless filets cut into bite-sized pieces for quick and even cooking.
Extra virgin olive oil (2 tablespoons): Helps the seasoning stick and adds a subtle fruity richness.
Paprika (1 teaspoon): Brings a mild smokiness and vibrant color to the salmon bites.
Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Infuses a savory depth without overpowering the delicate fish.
Kosher salt (1 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness of the sauce.
Black pepper (½ teaspoon): Adds a mild heat that complements the sauce’s sriracha kick.
Mayonnaise (1 cup): Creamy base for the bang bang sauce that smooths out the spicy edges.
Thai sweet chili sauce (½ cup): Delivers the sweet and tangy core of the bang bang flavor.
Sriracha (2 teaspoons): Gives the sauce a vibrant, punchy heat that you can adjust to your liking.
Honey (2 tablespoons): Balances the spice with natural sweetness for an irresistible glaze.
Chives (for garnish): Adds a fresh, oniony brightness and a pop of color at the finish.

How to Make Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon Bites

Step 1: Preheat Your Air Fryer

Start by setting your air fryer to 390 degrees Fahrenheit. Getting the air fryer nice and hot ensures that your salmon bites will crisp up beautifully on the outside while remaining tender inside. This step is essential for that perfect balance of textures.

Step 2: Season the Salmon Bites

In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper. This seasoning mix creates a flavorful coating that enhances the natural taste of the salmon without overpowering it. Gently toss the salmon pieces in this blend until each bite is evenly covered.

Step 3: Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce

While the salmon is resting in the seasoning, combine the mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and honey in another bowl. Whisk until the sauce is smooth and vibrant. This creamy, sweet, and spicy sauce will be the star of the dish, bringing a delightful zing that perfectly complements the salmon’s richness.

Step 4: Toss Salmon in Half the Sauce

Reserve half of the bang bang sauce for later as a drizzle after cooking. Toss the seasoned salmon bites in the remaining sauce, coating them gently but thoroughly. This step infuses the salmon with all the bold flavors right before cooking.

Step 5: Air Fry the Salmon Bites

Work in batches to avoid overcrowding your air fryer basket and place the salmon bites in a single even layer. Air fry for 4 to 5 minutes, then carefully flip each piece and cook for another 4 to 5 minutes or until the salmon reaches an internal temperature between 140 and 145 degrees Fahrenheit. The bites should be perfectly cooked and slightly crispy on the outside.

Step 6: Coat with the Reserved Sauce

Once the salmon bites are cooked, transfer them to a serving plate and generously drizzle the reserved bang bang sauce over the top. This fresh coating adds an extra layer of lusciousness and ensures every bite is bursting with that signature Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon Bites flavor.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Finish by sprinkling chopped chives over the salmon bites. The chives not only add a subtle oniony flavor but also brighten the dish visually with their vibrant green hue.

How to Serve Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon Bites

Garnishes

Besides the classic chopped chives, feel free to elevate your Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon Bites with a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or finely sliced scallions. These simple touches add texture and a burst of fresh flavor that compliments the rich sauce perfectly.

Side Dishes

These salmon bites pair wonderfully with a crisp green salad or a refreshing cucumber slaw to balance the richness. For a heartier meal, serve alongside steamed jasmine rice or quinoa which soaks up the excess bang bang sauce in the most delightful way.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving your Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon Bites on a bed of mixed greens topped with avocado slices and fresh lime wedges to squeeze over the dish. Alternatively, use small skewers and present them as an appetizer at your next gathering to wow guests with this irresistible flavor combo.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon Bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Keep the extra bang bang sauce separate to prevent the salmon from becoming soggy.

Freezing

While fresh is best for this dish, you can freeze the cooked salmon bites by placing them on a baking tray to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Use within one month for optimal taste and texture. Defrost overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in the air fryer at a lower temperature (around 320 degrees Fahrenheit) for 3-4 minutes to crisp up the exterior without overcooking. Avoid the microwave to keep the texture intact, and add fresh bang bang sauce after warming.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen salmon, but make sure to fully thaw and pat it dry before seasoning to achieve the best texture and cooking results.

Is it possible to make this recipe spicier or milder?

Absolutely! Adjust the sriracha to your spice preference or omit it for a mild, kid-friendly version. The beauty of Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon Bites is its flexibility to suit your heat tolerance.

What if I don’t have an air fryer?

You can bake the salmon bites in a preheated oven at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, but the air fryer gives a superior crispiness.

Can I substitute the mayonnaise for a healthier option?

Yes, Greek yogurt works beautifully as a lighter substitute and still gives that creamy texture to the bang bang sauce.

How do I know when the salmon bites are done?

They’re ready when they’re opaque throughout and reach an internal temperature of 140-145 degrees Fahrenheit. The exterior should be golden and slightly crisp.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about these Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon Bites that makes every meal feel like a celebration. The perfect harmony of spicy, sweet, crispy, and tender in just a few simple steps makes this recipe an absolute keeper. I can’t wait for you to try it out and add it to your regular rotation—because once you do, these salmon bites might just become your favorite indulgence!

Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon Bites Recipe

★★★★★

5.1 from 26 reviews

Author: Isabella
Total Time: 20-22 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Low Lactose

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Description

Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon Bites are crispy, perfectly cooked salmon pieces coated in a creamy, tangy, and mildly spicy bang bang sauce. This quick and easy recipe combines the convenience of the air fryer with bold flavors, making it a delicious appetizer or main dish that’s sure to impress.

Instructions

Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 390°F (about 200°C) to ensure it is hot and ready for cooking the salmon bites.
Prepare Seasoning Mix: In a large bowl, combine the extra virgin olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper thoroughly.
Season Salmon Bites: Add the salmon pieces to the bowl with the seasoning mixture and gently toss them so each bite is evenly coated with the spices and oil.
Make Bang Bang Sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey until smooth and well combined.
Coat Salmon in Sauce: Set aside half of the bang bang sauce for serving later. Toss the seasoned salmon bites in the remaining half of the sauce to coat them evenly.
Cook Salmon in Air Fryer: Working in batches to avoid overcrowding, place the coated salmon bites in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 4-5 minutes, then carefully flip each piece and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes more. Continue until the salmon reaches an internal temperature of 140-145°F to ensure it is cooked through but still tender.
Finish with Reserved Sauce: After cooking, transfer the salmon bites to a serving plate and drizzle with the reserved bang bang sauce for an extra burst of flavor.
Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh chives on top as a fresh, mild garnish and serve immediately for the best taste and texture.

Notes

Ensure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket to allow even cooking and crispiness.
You can adjust the amount of Sriracha based on your desired spice level.
Check internal temperature with a food thermometer to ensure salmon is safely cooked.
Salmon bites are best served immediately to enjoy their crispy texture.
If skin-on salmon is used, the cooking time may vary slightly.
Leftover bang bang sauce can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and used as a dip or spread.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
Category: Appetizer, Main Dish
Method: Air Frying
Cuisine: Asian Fusion, American