Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon Bites Recipe

Prepare to meet your newest dinner obsession: Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon Bites. These irresistible bites combine tender, juicy salmon with a creamy, sweet, and spicy sauce that packs just the right amount of heat. With the magic of the air fryer, you get crispy-edged, golden salmon morsels in a flash, perfect for piling onto rice bowls, stuffing into lettuce wraps, or serving up as mouthwatering apps nobody can resist. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a chill weekend gathering, these bites absolutely deliver on flavor, speed, and fun.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

With just a handful of everyday ingredients, you’re on your way to something truly special. Each component is simple yet essential—bringing a burst of flavor, the ideal creamy texture, or that irresistible color pop to these Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon Bites.

• Salmon fillet (1 lb, skinless, cut into 1-inch cubes): Choose fresh, firm salmon for melt-in-your-mouth bites every time.
• Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Helps the spices stick and gives the edges a lovely golden crispness.
• Garlic powder (½ teaspoon): Adds a mellow, savory depth that pairs perfectly with the salmon.
• Smoked paprika (½ teaspoon): Brings smokiness and a gorgeous rosy hue to your bites.
• Salt (½ teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors and makes the salmon shine.
• Black pepper (¼ teaspoon): A hint of heat that keeps the bites lively and balanced.
• Mayonnaise (¼ cup, for the Bang Bang Sauce): Creates the creamy base for that signature sauciness (try Greek yogurt for a lighter twist).
• Sweet chili sauce (2 tablespoons): Sweet and tangy, it’s key for that lip-smacking Bang Bang flavor.
• Sriracha (1 tablespoon): Delivers a spicy kick; add more or less depending on your heat preferences.
• Honey (1 teaspoon): A touch of sweetness rounds out the sauce and balances the heat.

How to Make Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon Bites

Step 1: Prep the Salmon

Start by cutting your salmon fillet into bite-size, 1-inch cubes. This ensures that every piece cooks evenly and comes out perfectly tender. Give the cubes a gentle pat with a paper towel to help your seasonings stick—nobody likes a soggy bite!

Step 2: Season the Bites

In a mixing bowl, toss the salmon cubes with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Make sure every surface is nicely coated by using your hands or a spatula. The smoked paprika and garlic powder work magic here, infusing each piece with a deep, savory flavor and eye-catching color.

Step 3: Air Fry to Perfection

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C)—that hot blast of air is the secret to crispy magic. Arrange your salmon bites in a single layer in the basket, making sure not to overcrowd (work in batches if needed). Fry for 7–9 minutes, shaking or flipping halfway through so they cook up golden and tender on all sides.

Step 4: Whisk Up the Bang Bang Sauce

While the salmon is sizzling away, mix up your bang bang sauce: simply whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and honey in a small bowl until smooth and luscious. Taste and adjust the sriracha if you want a fiery kick or mellow it for the spice-shy.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Once the Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon Bites are perfectly golden, transfer them to a bowl. You can gently toss them in the sauce for the full bang bang effect, or keep the sauce on the side as a dipper for those who love a lighter touch. Top with fresh green onions or sesame seeds, and get ready to dig in!

How to Serve Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon Bites

Garnishes

The finishing touch goes a long way! Sprinkle your Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon Bites with chopped green onions for a fresh, zesty bite, or a sprinkle of sesame seeds for subtle crunch and a nutty finish. A lime wedge on the side is always welcome for those who crave a citrusy pop.

Side Dishes

These bites truly shine when paired with fluffy jasmine rice or a mound of sticky sushi rice. For a light, crunchy partner, consider fresh slaw or a platter of cool cucumber slices. They’re equally at home served in lettuce wraps for a hand-held meal or paired with sautéed greens for a nourishing dinner.

Creative Ways to Present

For a crowd-pleasing appetizer, thread salmon bites onto skewers, drizzle with sauce, and fan them out on a platter. Or, build rice bowls topped with pickled veggies and avocado for a weeknight dinner that looks as good as it tastes. For party vibes, arrange them on mini lettuce leaves and top each with a dab of Bang Bang sauce—so cute, and so delicious!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers (which is unlikely!), place your Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon Bites in an airtight container, and refrigerate for up to two days. To keep the salmon’s texture at its best, store the Bang Bang sauce separately and combine just before serving.

Freezing

Thinking about meal prep? Cooked and cooled salmon bites can be frozen in a zip-top bag for up to two months. Lay them in a single layer before freezing to prevent sticking. Just wait to add the Bang Bang sauce until after reheating for optimum flavor and freshness.

Reheating

Reheat your salmon bites in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 3–4 minutes until just heated through, or in the oven if you’re serving a big batch. This refreshes the crisp edges without drying out the inside. Give the sauce a stir and drizzle over the top, or serve it on the side for dipping.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon for Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon Bites?

Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the salmon completely and pat it dry before seasoning. This helps the spice rub stick and ensures crisp edges once you air fry.

Is there a dairy-free option for the bang bang sauce?

Yes, simply use a dairy-free or vegan mayonnaise as the base for your sauce. The rest of the ingredients are already dairy-free, so it’s an easy switch for allergy-friendly bites.

How spicy are these salmon bites?

The great thing about Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon Bites is you control the spice. Follow the recipe for a medium kick, then add more or less sriracha depending on your heat preference. You can even omit it for a milder, family-friendly version.

What kind of salmon works best for this recipe?

Look for fresh, firm, skinless salmon fillet (Atlantic or wild-caught both work). Avoid very thin or tender portions as they may overcook or break apart. Even frozen and thawed salmon works well, as long as it’s patted dry before coating with oil and spices.

Can I bake the salmon bites if I don’t have an air fryer?

Definitely! Spread the seasoned salmon cubes on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 425°F (218°C) for about 10–12 minutes, turning once. They won’t get quite as crispy as the air fryer version but will still be totally delicious!

Final Thoughts

Trust me: once you try Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon Bites, they’ll earn a regular spot in your meal rotation. They’re playful, quick to make, and always impress with their big flavors and golden finish. Give this easy, flavor-packed recipe a whirl—you’ll be so glad you did!

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