If you are looking for a dish that perfectly balances bold flavor with effortless cooking, the Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon Bites Recipe is exactly what you need. These bite-sized pieces of salmon are coated in a tantalizing mix of spices, air-fried to a crispy finish, and then generously glazed with a creamy, spicy, and sweet Bang Bang sauce. It’s a recipe that turns simple ingredients into a crowd-pleaser, bringing together the best of heat, sweetness, and silky textures in every single bite. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or impressing guests, these salmon bites are sure to become a fast favorite in your recipe collection.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making the Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon Bites Recipe truly shine. Each component is simple yet pivotal—salmon for flaky goodness, spices for depth, and a luscious sauce that ties everything together.
- Salmon (1 ½ pounds): Fresh, skinless filets cut into 1-inch bites ensure tender and perfectly portioned pieces.
- Extra virgin olive oil (2 tablespoons): This adds moisture, helping the spices cling and the salmon crisp up nicely in the air fryer.
- Paprika (1 teaspoon): Imparts a smoky flavor and beautiful color to the seasoning mix.
- Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Enhances the savory notes and complements the seafood taste.
- Kosher salt (1 teaspoon): Essential for bringing out the flavors and seasoning the salmon properly.
- Black pepper (½ teaspoon): Adds a mild heat and subtle bite that balances the dish.
- Mayonnaise (1 cup): Creates a creamy base for the Bang Bang sauce, contributing to its luscious texture.
- Thai sweet chili sauce (½ cup): Provides sweetness with a touch of heat, the heart of the signature Bang Bang flavor.
- Sriracha (2 teaspoons): Brings the spicy kick; adjust to your preferred heat level.
- Honey (2 tablespoons): Adds natural sweetness, balancing the spice and acidity perfectly.
- Chives (finely chopped): A fresh, mild onion flavor and pretty garnish to finish each bite.
How to Make Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon Bites Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer
Start by setting your air fryer to 390 degrees Fahrenheit. A hot air fryer basket ensures the salmon cooks quickly and develops a delightful crispy exterior without drying out the inside. This step sets up the perfect environment for flawless cooking.
Step 2: Season the Salmon Bites
In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper. Toss the salmon bites gently in this mixture until each piece is coated with the bright, aromatic spices. This seasoning base adds layers of flavor that complement the richness of the salmon.
Step 3: Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce
Mix mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey in a separate bowl until smooth and beautifully blended. This sauce is both creamy and tangy, with just the right amount of heat and sweetness. Reserve half of this sauce to drizzle over the bites after cooking, keeping the fresh flavors vibrant.
Step 4: Coat Salmon Bites in Sauce
Toss the seasoned salmon bites with half of the prepared Bang Bang sauce to ensure they soak in the creamy, spicy flavor before hitting the air fryer. This step infuses each bite with an irresistible glaze that caramelizes slightly when cooked.
Step 5: Air Fry the Salmon Bites
Arrange the salmon bites in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure not to overcrowd so the hot air circulates freely. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes, then carefully flip each piece and cook for an additional 4 to 5 minutes. You’re aiming for an internal temperature of 140 to 145 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure tender, flaky salmon with a crisp outside.
Step 6: Serve with Sauce and Garnish
Once cooked, transfer the salmon bites to a serving plate. Drizzle the reserved Bang Bang sauce over the top to add a fresh burst of flavor, then sprinkle finely chopped chives for a pop of color and mild onion fragrance that complements the dish perfectly.
How to Serve Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon Bites Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing your Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon Bites Recipe with fresh, finely chopped chives adds a subtle crunch and an appealing bright green color. For an extra touch, a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or thinly sliced scallions can elevate the presentation and add extra layers of texture.
Side Dishes
These salmon bites pair wonderfully with light, fresh sides. Think steamed jasmine rice or quinoa to soak up every last bit of Bang Bang sauce. A crisp, tangy cucumber salad or roasted asparagus can bring balance to the creamy, rich flavors and add a refreshing contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
For an eye-catching appetizer, serve these salmon bites on individual spoons or mini lettuce cups with a drizzle of the Bang Bang sauce on top. Another fun idea is stacking them on skewers with fresh mango chunks for a sweet, spicy bite. These creative presentations are perfect for parties or special gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers of the Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon Bites Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keeping the sauce separate until serving will help maintain the perfect texture, preventing the bites from becoming soggy.
Freezing
While fresh is best, you can freeze the cooked salmon bites by placing them on a parchment-lined tray to freeze individually, then transferring them to a freezer-safe container. Use within a month for optimal flavor and texture. Defrost overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, place the salmon bites back in the air fryer at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 3-4 minutes until warmed through and slightly crisp again. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the texture rubbery. Drizzle fresh Bang Bang sauce just before serving for that fresh, zesty finish.
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon for this Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon Bites Recipe?
Fresh salmon is ideal, but if using frozen, thaw it completely and pat dry to avoid excess moisture which can affect crispiness during air frying.
How spicy is the Bang Bang sauce in this recipe?
The sauce has a balanced heat with a sweet undertone, but you can easily adjust the Sriracha amount to make it milder or spicier based on your preference.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Just ensure that your Thai sweet chili sauce and mayonnaise are gluten-free, as some brands may contain additives or wheat-based ingredients.
Is it okay to use skin-on salmon?
For this recipe, it’s best to remove the skin since you’re cutting the salmon into bite-sized pieces; skin can make them tricky to eat and crisp unevenly in the air fryer.
What if I don’t have an air fryer? Can I bake this recipe instead?
Absolutely! Bake the salmon bites at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for around 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking, but the air fryer will give you the best crisp texture.
Final Thoughts
I can’t encourage you enough to give this Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon Bites Recipe a try—it’s a game-changer for quick, flavorful seafood that feels indulgent but is surprisingly easy to make. The combination of crispy salmon bites with the creamy, spicy Bang Bang sauce is pure magic. Once you taste this dish, it’s guaranteed to become a new favorite in your weeknight meal lineup or a stunning appetizer to wow your friends. Happy cooking!
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Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon Bites Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: Asian Fusion
Description
These Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon Bites are crispy, flavorful, and perfectly saucy appetizers or main dish bites. Salmon pieces are seasoned and cooked to perfection in an air fryer, then tossed in a spicy and sweet Bang Bang sauce made from mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, honey, and Sriracha. Ready in just 25 minutes, this recipe offers a deliciously easy way to enjoy salmon with a zesty twist.
Ingredients
Salmon Bites
- 1 ½ pounds salmon (about 4 filets), skins removed, cut into 1-inch bites
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Bang Bang Sauce
- 1 cup (232 g) mayonnaise
- ½ cup (132 g) Thai sweet chili sauce
- 2 teaspoons Sriracha (or more to taste)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- Chives, finely chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Begin by preheating your air fryer to 390°F to ensure even cooking and a crispy texture on the salmon bites.
- Season the Salmon: In a large bowl, mix the olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper. Add the salmon bites and gently toss until all pieces are evenly coated with the seasoning blend.
- Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce: In a separate bowl, combine mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey. Stir well until smooth. Divide the sauce in half, setting one half aside for serving later.
- Coat the Salmon with Sauce: Toss the seasoned salmon bites with half of the Bang Bang sauce to thoroughly coat them before cooking.
- Air Fry the Salmon: Arrange the coated salmon bites in a single layer in the air fryer basket without overcrowding. Cook for 4-5 minutes, then carefully flip each piece and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes until the salmon reaches an internal temperature of 140-145°F and is fully cooked through.
- Serve and Garnish: Transfer the cooked salmon bites to a serving plate. Drizzle with the reserved Bang Bang sauce and garnish with finely chopped chives. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
- Adjust Sriracha quantity to your preferred heat level.
- The salmon should reach an internal temperature of 140-145°F to be safely cooked yet moist.
- Use skinless salmon for easier preparation and better texture in the bites.
- Leftover Bang Bang sauce can be refrigerated and used as a dip for other seafood or grilled dishes.
