Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon Bites – Quick, Flavor Packed Dinner
If you’re craving something crispy, creamy, and just the right kind of spicy, these Bang Bang Salmon Bites are the answer. Made in the air fryer, they’re fast, flavorful, and ideal for anyone who wants a healthy salmon dinner without the fuss of deep frying or pan watching.
This recipe works for weeknight dinners, protein-packed lunches, or easy salmon meal prep. The sweet heat of the bang bang sauce makes them family-friendly too, even for picky eaters. Whether you’re new to salmon dishes or just need a break from the usual lemon-garlic routine, this recipe adds bold flavor without overcomplicating things.
In this post, you’ll learn how to make these bites from scratch, how to adjust the spice level, and how to turn them into a full meal. They’re perfect for air fryer dinner recipes that need to come together in under 30 minutes but still impress.
Table of Contents
Ingredients for Bang Bang Salmon Bites (Perfect for Meal Prep)
To make these Bang Bang Salmon Bites, you only need a few pantry staples and fresh salmon. This ingredient list works whether you’re serving them hot for dinner or packing them into your weekly salmon meal prep.
For the Salmon
- 1½ pounds fresh salmon, skin removed and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
For the Bang Bang Sauce
- 1 cup mayonnaise (regular or light)
- ½ cup Thai sweet chili sauce
- 2 teaspoons Sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons honey
Want the exact ratios and pro tips for heat control? Grab the full bang bang sauce guide.
Optional Garnish
- Fresh chives or green onions, finely chopped
- Lemon wedges for a bright finish
Each part of this list adds to the sweet, spicy, and savory balance that defines great salmon dishes. If you’re prepping ahead, the sauce can be made up to five days in advance and stored in the fridge.
How to Make Bang Bang Salmon Bites in the Air Fryer
Making these Bang Bang Salmon Bites is fast and easy, especially with the air fryer. Here’s how to get them crisp outside, tender inside, and coated in just the right amount of bang bang sauce.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 390°F while you prep the salmon.
- Season the salmon. In a large bowl, combine olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add the salmon bites and toss gently to coat each piece evenly.
- Make the sauce. In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey until smooth.
- Divide the sauce. Set aside half the bang bang sauce for drizzling later. Toss the seasoned salmon bites in the remaining sauce to coat.
- Air fry in batches. Arrange the salmon in a single layer in the basket, leaving space between each piece. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes, then flip and cook another 4 to 5 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 140 to 145°F.
- Serve with extra sauce. Once cooked, drizzle the reserved bang bang sauce over the salmon bites and sprinkle with chives.
Oven Option
Preheat the oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the seasoned, sauce-free salmon on the sheet and bake for 16 minutes, flipping halfway through. Toss with bang bang sauce after baking to avoid burning.
These steps keep the texture crisp without overcooking, making this recipe a standout among air fryer salmon dishes.
Tips, Variations and Healthy Swaps for Bang Bang Salmon Bites
This recipe is flexible enough to suit different tastes and dietary needs. Whether you want to turn up the heat or keep it mild and family-friendly, here are a few ways to make it your own.
Easy Swaps and Adjustments
- For less heat: Use just one teaspoon of Sriracha or skip it entirely for a sweet-only glaze.
- For more heat: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or an extra squirt of Sriracha to the sauce.
- Make it lighter: Use low-fat mayonnaise or Greek yogurt to cut down on calories without losing creaminess.
- Try a different glaze: Swap the bang bang sauce for a honey soy glaze using equal parts soy sauce, honey, and a splash of rice vinegar for a more Asian-inspired twist.
Protein Alternatives
If you’re out of salmon, this recipe works well with shrimp, tofu, or even chicken. Keep cooking times similar, adjusting only slightly depending on thickness.
Prefer the oven and a crunchy topping? Try this parmesan crusted salmon next
Meal Prep Tips
To make Bang Bang Salmon Bites part of your weekly rotation, prep the sauce in advance and store it in the fridge. You can also cube the salmon ahead of time and season it just before cooking.
These small changes can help you match your taste goals, whether you’re after a classic bang bang bite or exploring new salmon glaze recipes.
How to Serve Bang Bang Salmon Bites for Any Meal
Bang Bang Salmon Bites are more than just a quick dinner. Their bold flavor and easy prep make them perfect for multiple occasions, from casual lunches to dressed-up dinners.
Ideas for Serving
- Over rice: A classic choice that absorbs the extra sauce. White rice, jasmine, or brown rice all work well.
- In lettuce wraps: Crisp lettuce leaves balance the creamy heat of the sauce. Add shredded carrots or cucumber for crunch.
- As sliders: Tuck a few bites into soft Hawaiian rolls with a little slaw for a fun party snack or family dinner.
- With noodles: Toss the cooked salmon bites with rice noodles or soba for a light and savory bowl.
- Salad topper: Add them to a bed of mixed greens for a protein-packed twist on your usual lunch.
If you’re planning ahead, these make great additions to a weekly lunch meal prep. Just pack the salmon bites with rice or veggies and keep the extra sauce in a separate container until serving.
Whether you’re building a healthy fish dinner or looking for versatile salmon dishes, this recipe fits into many mealtime routines.
Storage, Reheating and Simple Presentation Tips
Once cooked, Bang Bang Salmon Bites store well and reheat beautifully, making them a go-to for both dinner and salmon meal prep.
How to Store and Reheat
- Refrigerator: Place cooled salmon bites in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh for up to four days.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the bites without sauce. Wrap them individually and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to two months.
- Reheat: Use the air fryer at 350°F for about five minutes to bring back the crisp texture. If frozen, add a few extra minutes. Avoid microwaving, which softens the surface.
Keep the reserved bang bang sauce separate until you’re ready to eat. This keeps the flavor fresh and the texture intact.
Presentation Ideas
For a Pinterest-worthy look, drizzle sauce over the top just before serving and sprinkle with chopped chives or sesame seeds. Serve on a dark platter to contrast the vibrant color or tuck into small paper baskets for a casual gathering.
These bites are easy to dress up or down. Whether for weekday fuel or a weekend meal, they keep their appeal with very little effort.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon, but make sure it is fully thawed and patted dry before seasoning. Excess moisture can affect how well the sauce sticks and how evenly the salmon cooks in the air fryer.
What if I don’t have an air fryer?
You can easily make Bang Bang Salmon Bites in a conventional oven. Bake at 400°F for about 16 minutes, flipping halfway through. Add the sauce after baking to prevent burning.
Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Definitely. These salmon bites hold up well in the fridge for up to four days. Store the sauce separately and drizzle just before eating to keep the texture fresh. They’re perfect for adding to rice bowls, salads, or wraps.
How spicy is bang bang sauce?
The spice level is moderate with two teaspoons of Sriracha. For less heat, start with one teaspoon or leave it out entirely. You can also add more if you prefer a spicier bite.
What are some healthy swaps I can make?
Use light mayonnaise or Greek yogurt for a lower-fat sauce. Serve with vegetables or over brown rice for a balanced meal. This recipe already fits many healthy salmon guidelines thanks to its protein content and omega-3s.
Nutrition Info for Bang Bang Salmon Bites
Bang Bang Salmon Bites may feel indulgent, but they can easily fit into a healthy eating plan when balanced with smart ingredients and sides.
A standard serving of these salmon bites with sauce contains approximately:
- Calories: 820
- Protein: 38 grams
- Fat: 62 grams
- Carbohydrates: 20 grams
- Sugar: 14 grams
- Fiber: 1 gram
Most of the calories come from healthy fats found in salmon and the mayonnaise-based sauce. To reduce calories, consider using light mayo or Greek yogurt and serving with extra vegetables.
Paired with a side of steamed broccoli, mixed greens, or brown rice, these bites easily earn a place among your healthy food dishes. They’re high in protein, naturally gluten-free, and rich in omega-3 fatty acids, making them a strong option for those looking for healthy salmon recipes that don’t sacrifice flavor.
Final Thoughts on Bang Bang Salmon Bites
Bang Bang Salmon Bites bring bold flavor, quick prep, and crowd-pleasing texture together in one dish. Whether you’re using them as part of your weeknight dinner rotation or adding them to your lunch meal prep routine, they fit right in without taking much time or effort.
The sweet heat of the bang bang sauce adds something special that keeps people coming back for more. Even better, this recipe is flexible enough to adjust for different tastes, spice levels, and dietary goals.
If you try it, feel free to make it your own. Use a different glaze, switch up the sides, or turn it into a full meal bowl. And if it earns a place in your regular recipe lineup, share it with friends or save it to your favorite Pinterest salmon board.
Cooking should be simple but satisfying. This recipe hits both.
Bang Bang Salmon Bites
Equipment
- Air Fryer
- Mixing bowls
- Tongs
Ingredients
Salmon
- 1 1/2 pounds salmon skin removed, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Bang Bang Sauce
- 1 cup mayonnaise can use light or regular
- 1/2 cup Thai sweet chili sauce
- 2 teaspoons Sriracha or to taste
- 2 tablespoons honey
Garnish
- chives or green onions finely chopped
- lemon wedges optional, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 390°F while preparing the salmon.
- In a large bowl, mix olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add salmon cubes and toss gently to coat.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey until smooth.
- Set aside half of the sauce for later. Toss the salmon bites in the remaining sauce.
- Place salmon pieces in the air fryer basket in a single layer without overcrowding. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes per side or until internal temperature reaches 140 to 145°F.
- Transfer to a plate, drizzle with the reserved sauce, and garnish with chives. Serve warm.
Notes
- Calories: 820
- Protein: 38 g
- Total Fat: 62 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Sugar: 14 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Sodium: 940 mg
- Potassium: 650 mg
- Vitamin A: 950 IU
- Vitamin C: 3 mg
- Calcium: 35 mg
- Iron: 2 mg
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