Name: Bang Bang Salmon Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ½ pounds salmon fillets, skin removed, cut into bite-sized 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 extra heat); ½ cup mayonnaise; ¼ cup Thai sweet chili sauce; 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce (adjust to taste); 1 tablespoon honey; 1 tablespoon lime juice

Jump to Recipe·5.2 from 9 reviews

If you’re searching for a quick dinner with seriously bold flavor, Bang Bang Salmon is the showstopper you need in your kitchen! This recipe transforms juicy salmon bites into crispy, golden morsels, then tosses them in a creamy, tangy sauce that sings with Thai sweet chili, sriracha, and a hit of fresh lime. The result? Every bite pops with spice, zest, and a hint of sweetness. Whether it’s a laid-back lunch or a crowd-pleasing dinner, Bang Bang Salmon will be the meal everyone asks for again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering up the essentials for Bang Bang Salmon couldn’t be easier—each ingredient has a mission, whether it’s building flavor, adding crunch, or bringing that signature zingy finish. A little prep and you’re well on your way to a dish that looks gourmet, but comes together in a snap.

Salmon fillets (1 ½ pounds, skin removed, cut into bite-sized pieces): Go for fresh, center-cut salmon for the best texture, and cutting it into bites ensures every piece gets evenly coated with seasoning and stays succulent.
Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Just enough to help the spices stick and encourage that gorgeous crispy edge in the air fryer.
Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Adds deep, warm, savory notes that bring the savory profile to life.
Onion powder (1 teaspoon): A subtle boost of sweetness and earthiness balances the bold flavors.
Smoked paprika (1 teaspoon): Delivers a lovely smokiness and rich color, making the salmon bites totally irresistible.
Salt (½ teaspoon): Essential for amplifying all those wonderful flavors—don’t skip it!
Black pepper (½ teaspoon): Brings just the right amount of mellow heat to round out the seasoning mix.
Cayenne pepper (¼ teaspoon, optional): For those who love extra kick, this little sprinkle turns up the heat.
Mayonnaise (½ cup): The creamy backbone of the Bang Bang sauce, making every bite rich and luscious.
Thai sweet chili sauce (¼ cup): Gives the signature tangy-sweet flavor that makes this dish pop—don’t substitute!
Sriracha sauce (1 tablespoon, adjust to taste): Turn the heat up or down to your liking, but a squirt or two delivers the essential zing.
Honey (1 tablespoon): A touch of mellow sweetness that bridges the heat and tang beautifully.
Lime juice (1 tablespoon): The fresh, citrusy punch that brightens up the entire sauce and ties it all together.

How to Make Bang Bang Salmon

Step 1: Whisk Together the Bang Bang Sauce

Start by stirring up the irresistible sauce: In a small bowl, whisk the mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and lime juice until smooth and fully combined. This sauce is creamy, spicy, and tangy—totally next-level. Set it aside for now (if you can resist sneaking a taste!).

Step 2: Season the Salmon Bites

In a large bowl, add your salmon pieces and drizzle with the olive oil. Sprinkle over the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne if you’re feeling adventurous. Toss everything together until every salmon bite is glistening and beautifully coated. This quick seasoning step layers in bold color and flavor, so don’t skimp!

Step 3: Preheat Your Air Fryer

Preheating is key for that crispy exterior. Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and let it heat up for about 3 minutes. A hot fryer ensures those salmon pieces start crisping up straight away—no soggy bites here.

Step 4: Air Fry the Salmon Bites

Arrange the seasoned salmon in a single layer in the air fryer basket, keeping a little space between each piece. This helps them get deliciously crisp on all sides. Depending on your fryer’s size, you might need to work in batches. Cook for 8–10 minutes, pausing halfway through to gently shake the basket. They’re ready when the outside is golden and slightly crispy and the inside stays juicy.

Step 5: Toss in Bang Bang Sauce and Serve

Once cooked, transfer the salmon bites onto your favorite serving platter. Drizzle generously with the Bang Bang sauce and give an extra dip on the side for anyone who simply can’t get enough. Serve while hot and crisp for the ultimate flavor experience!

How to Serve Bang Bang Salmon

Garnishes

Bursting with color and crunch, the right garnish can elevate Bang Bang Salmon to the next level. Try a shower of sliced green onions or fresh cilantro for freshness. Toasted sesame seeds add a delicious nutty crunch, and a sprinkle of chopped red chili or a few lime wedges on the side offer a little extra zing and visual flair.

Side Dishes

Bang Bang Salmon loves good company! Fluffy jasmine rice or coconut rice makes a stellar base, soaking up any extra sauce. Roasted broccoli, snap peas, or a simple cabbage slaw bring in crunch and color, rounding out the plate. If you’re keeping it light, serve over mixed greens or tuck inside lettuce wraps for a cool contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

Think outside the plate! Stuff Bang Bang Salmon into warm tacos with a drizzle of extra sauce and crunchy slaw. Top grain bowls with salmon bites, avocado, edamame, and pickled veggies for a colorful, protein-packed lunch. Or skewer onto toothpicks for party-perfect Bang Bang Salmon appetizers that disappear fast.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with extras (lucky you!), keep Bang Bang Salmon bites in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store the sauce separately, so the salmon stays as crisp as possible until you’re ready to enjoy again.

Freezing

To freeze, arrange cooled cooked salmon bites in a single layer on a baking sheet, and pop them in the freezer until solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. This method helps them freeze individually, making it easy to grab just what you need.

Reheating

For best texture, reheat Bang Bang Salmon in an air fryer or regular oven at 350°F until hot and crispy—usually 5 to 8 minutes is just right. If you’re in a hurry, the microwave works too, but expect a little less crunch.

FAQs

Can I bake Bang Bang Salmon instead of air frying?

Absolutely! Arrange the seasoned salmon bites on a lined baking sheet and bake at 400°F for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through. The texture is slightly different but still deliciously crisp and flavorful.

Is there a substitute for mayonnaise in the sauce?

Greek yogurt can take the place of mayonnaise for a lighter sauce, while still offering creamy texture and tang. The flavor will be a little brighter, which can be a welcome twist.

What type of salmon works best?

Fresh, skinless salmon fillets are ideal for Bang Bang Salmon, as they cook evenly and deliver the best flavor and texture. If using frozen, thaw and pat dry thoroughly before seasoning.

Can I make this dish spicier?

Of course! Add more sriracha to the sauce or toss a bit of extra cayenne with the salmon bites. You control the heat, so make it as fiery as you like!

Is Bang Bang Salmon gluten free?

The core recipe is naturally gluten free, but always double-check your Thai sweet chili sauce and sriracha to confirm there are no hidden gluten-containing ingredients.

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready to impress your taste buds (and maybe a lucky crowd), give Bang Bang Salmon a try. It’s the kind of dish that wows with flavors and textures, yet fits right into your busiest weeknights. Once you see how simple—and craveable—it is, you’ll want to make it again and again. Don’t wait, give Bang Bang Salmon a spot in your dinner rotation tonight!