If you are looking for a dazzling appetizer or a quick, flavorful snack, these Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon Bites are going to be your new go-to. Perfectly crispy on the outside and tender inside, these little bites pack a punch with a creamy, spicy bang bang sauce that dances on your taste buds. The air fryer gives them an irresistible crunch without the mess of deep frying, making this dish both indulgent and easy. Trust me, once you try these Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon Bites, they’ll become a fast favorite for gatherings or a cozy meal at home!

Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon Bites Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple, fresh, and carefully chosen ingredients come together to create the rich flavors and perfect texture of the Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon Bites. Each element plays a crucial role in making this dish truly spectacular.

Salmon (1 ½ pounds): Fresh, skinless salmon filets cut into bite-sized pieces ensure tender, flaky bites.
Extra virgin olive oil (2 tbsp): Adds a light coating for crisping and brings a subtle fruity depth.
Paprika (1 tsp): Gives a smoky aroma and vibrant color.
Garlic powder (1 tsp): Infuses savory undertones without overpowering the fish.
Kosher salt (1 tsp): Elevates every flavor while enhancing juiciness.
Black pepper (½ tsp): Adds mild heat and complexity.
Mayonnaise (1 cup): Creates a creamy and smooth base for the bang bang sauce.
Thai sweet chili sauce (½ cup): Balances sweetness and tang with a hint of spice.
Sriracha (2 tsp): Brings that signature kick—adjust to suit your heat preference.
Honey (2 tbsp): Provides natural sweetness to harmonize the spicy flavors.
Chives (for garnish): Fresh and mild, adding a pop of green and a burst of freshness.

How to Make Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon Bites

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Seasoning

Start by preheating your air fryer to 390°F so it is sizzling hot when the salmon bites go in. While that heats, take a large bowl and mix the olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper. This seasoning blend gives each bite a gorgeous color and layers of flavor that make the salmon irresistible.

Step 2: Coat the Salmon Bites

Gently toss the salmon pieces in the seasoning mixture, ensuring each bite is evenly coated. This step is crucial because the seasoning locks in moisture while building that golden-crisp exterior during air frying.

Step 3: Make the Bang Bang Sauce

In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey. The creamy, spicy, and slightly sweet sauce is the highlight of this recipe, delivering that addictive bang bang taste you crave. Reserve half for tossing after cooking and coat the salmon bites with the other half to infuse flavor before air frying.

Step 4: Air Fry the Salmon Bites

Place the sauced salmon bites in a single layer in the air fryer basket, taking care not to overcrowd them. Cook each batch for 4-5 minutes, then flip and cook for another 4-5 minutes or until the salmon reaches an internal temperature between 140°F and 145°F. The air fryer cooks them to perfection—crispy outside, tender inside, and soaked with bang bang goodness.

Step 5: Toss and Garnish

Once out of the air fryer, toss the salmon bites with the reserved bang bang sauce for an extra hit of flavor. Finish by sprinkling fresh chives on top for a mild onion note and a beautiful pop of color. Now these Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon Bites are ready to wow!

How to Serve Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon Bites

Garnishes

When serving your Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon Bites, fresh garnishes like chopped chives are essential for that vibrant color and subtle freshness. You can also add a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or finely sliced green onions to elevate the presentation and provide texture contrast. A wedge of lime on the side brightens the flavors even more.

Side Dishes

These salmon bites shine as a snack or appetizer but can also star alongside simple sides. Consider serving with steamed jasmine rice or a crunchy Asian slaw to complement the sauce’s sweet and spicy notes. Roasted vegetables or a crisp cucumber salad are great choices that add texture and balance to your meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fresh twist, serve Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon Bites on skewers drizzled with extra sauce, perfect for parties. You can also turn them into taco fillings with cabbage slaw and avocado slices for a unique fusion meal. Or plate them on a bed of leafy greens dressed lightly with sesame oil and lemon for a light lunch option that still bursts with flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Got leftovers? Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Because of the mayo-based sauce, it’s best to keep the salmon bites chilled and consume quickly to enjoy that fresh bang bang flavor without compromise.

Freezing

You can freeze the cooked salmon bites, but it’s best to do so before tossing with the bang bang sauce to maintain texture. Place the bites on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer-safe bag. Use within 1 month for best flavor. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating and adding fresh sauce.

Reheating

To reheat, preheat your air fryer to 350°F and warm the salmon bites for 3-4 minutes until heated through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the texture mushy. Always add fresh bang bang sauce after reheating to bring back that creamy, spicy magic.

FAQs

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

Yes, but make sure to thaw the salmon completely and pat it dry before seasoning. This helps the oil and spices stick better, ensuring a crispy exterior while air frying.

How spicy are these Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon Bites?

The heat level can be adjusted by varying the amount of Sriracha in the sauce. Starting with 2 teaspoons offers a pleasant kick, but feel free to add more for spice lovers or less if you prefer mild flavors.

Can I make this recipe without an air fryer?

While air frying creates a fantastic crispy texture, you can bake the salmon bites in a conventional oven at 400°F for around 10-12 minutes, turning halfway. They won’t be quite as crispy but still delicious.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! The salmon bites can be prepared ahead, stored, and quickly reheated, making them a convenient and tasty option for lunches or quick dinners during the week.

What can I substitute for Thai sweet chili sauce?

If you don’t have Thai sweet chili sauce, mix a combination of honey, rice vinegar, and a touch of chili garlic sauce to create a similar sweet, tangy, and spicy flavor profile for your bang bang sauce.

Final Thoughts

These Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon Bites are a delightful way to bring fresh, exciting flavors to your table without fuss. The combination of crispy salmon bites, luscious bang bang sauce, and simple garnishes makes for a dish that’s as impressive as it is straightforward. I can’t recommend giving this recipe a try enough—you’ll be amazed by how quickly it becomes a favorite for snacks, appetizers, or even light meals. Happy cooking!

Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon Bites Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 10 reviews

Author: Aiden
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Low Fat

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Description

This Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon Bites recipe offers a quick, flavorful way to enjoy perfectly cooked salmon tossed in a creamy, spicy bang bang sauce. Utilizing the air fryer allows the salmon bites to develop a deliciously crisp exterior while remaining tender inside. Ideal for a light dinner or appetizer, these salmon bites are garnished with fresh chives for an added touch of color and flavor.

Instructions

Preheat Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 390°F (199°C) and allow it to preheat while you prepare the salmon.
Prepare Seasoning Mixture: In a large bowl, combine olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper to make the seasoning blend.
Toss Salmon Bites: Add the salmon pieces to the bowl with the seasoning mixture and gently toss until each piece is well coated.
Make Bang Bang Sauce: In a separate bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey until fully combined and smooth.
Coat Salmon in Sauce: Pour half of the bang bang sauce into a separate bowl and set aside for serving. Toss the seasoned salmon bites in the remaining half of the sauce, ensuring they are evenly coated.
Cook Salmon Bites: Working in batches, place the sauced salmon bites in a single layer inside the air fryer basket without overcrowding. Air fry for 4-5 minutes, then flip the bites and cook another 4-5 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 140-145°F (60-63°C) and the salmon is cooked through.
Toss in Reserved Sauce: Once cooked, transfer the salmon bites to a serving plate and drizzle or toss with the reserved bang bang sauce for extra flavor.
Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with chopped fresh chives for garnish and serve immediately while warm.

Notes

Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches for best results.
Adjust Sriracha quantity in the sauce to your preferred spice level.
Ensure salmon is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 140-145°F to maintain a moist texture.
The sauce can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
For an extra crispy exterior, lightly spray salmon bites with cooking spray before air frying.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Appetizer, Main Course
Method: Air Frying
Cuisine: American with Asian-inspired flavors