Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites feature tender salmon cubes seasoned with spices, air-fried to perfection, and coated in a creamy, sweet, and spicy sauce made with mayonnaise, chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and lime juice. A flavorful, quick dish perfect for any occasion.
Begin by cutting the skinless salmon fillets into uniform, bite-sized cubes of approximately 1 inch each. Pat the salmon dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture, which will help achieve a crispier texture during cooking.
Transfer the salmon pieces to a bowl. Drizzle the olive oil over the cubes and sprinkle the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper evenly over the salmon. Gently toss to ensure all pieces are evenly coated with the oil and seasoning blend.
Cooking the Salmon Bites
Skillet Method:
Preheat a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
Place the salmon cubes in a single layer and sear for 2-3 minutes per side or until golden and cooked through.
Oven Method:
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Arrange the seasoned salmon bites on the sheet without overlapping.
Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and slightly crispy.
Air Fryer Method:
Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
Arrange the salmon cubes in a single layer, ensuring they do not overlap.
Air fry for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking.
Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce
While the salmon is cooking, prepare the bang bang sauce by whisking together the mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and lime juice in a bowl. Stir until smooth and creamy. Adjust the seasoning if desired—adding extra sriracha for heat or honey for more sweetness.
Coat the Salmon with Sauce
Once the salmon bites have finished cooking, transfer them to a large mixing bowl. Drizzle the prepared bang bang sauce over the salmon and gently toss to ensure every piece is coated with the sauce. If you prefer extra crispiness, you can serve the sauce on the side for dipping instead.
Serve Immediately
Serve the Bang Bang Salmon Bites immediately while warm. For presentation, garnish with chopped fresh parsley, green onions, or a sprinkle of sesame seeds for a pop of color. These bites pair beautifully with rice, roasted vegetables, or a side salad.
Notes
To make this recipe gluten-free:
Salmon & Spices: All listed spices are naturally gluten-free, but always verify pre-packaged spice blends.
Thai Sweet Chili Sauce: Confirm the brand is gluten-free, as some may contain gluten-based additives.
Mayonnaise: Most standard mayonnaise is gluten-free, but double-check the label to be safe.
By ensuring these swaps, you can enjoy the same bold flavors without gluten concerns.