Bang Bang Salmon Bites are crispy, bite-sized pieces of fresh salmon coated in a creamy, spicy sauce that balances heat with just the right touch of sweetness. I’ve been making this recipe for years, and it never fails to impress my family during busy weeknights when we need something quick but special.
There’s something magical about the way these little salmon cubes transform in the pan—from simple fish to golden, crispy bites that practically disappear from the plate. The first time I made Bang Bang Salmon Bites, I was looking for a way to use up some beautiful salmon fillets I’d picked up at the market, and I wanted something my grandkids would actually eat. The combination of that satisfying crunch from the cornstarch coating and the creamy, slightly spicy sauce was an instant hit. Now it’s become one of our go-to recipes when we want comfort food that feels a little fancy. You’re going to love this one!
Why You’ll Love This Bang Bang Salmon Bites Recipe
These Bang Bang Salmon Bites have become a staple in my kitchen because they strike the perfect balance between quick weeknight cooking and something that feels special enough for company. I love how this recipe takes everyday salmon and transforms it into something that always gets compliments at the dinner table.
Ready in just 20 minutes – Perfect for those hectic weeknights when you need dinner fast
Crispy perfection every time – The cornstarch coating creates that satisfying crunch we all crave
Incredible flavor balance – The sauce combinesCreamy, spicy, and sweet notes that complement the salmon beautifully—especially if you enjoy dishes like my Creamy Garlic Tuscan Salmon.
Versatile serving options – Serve as a main dish over rice, as an appetizer, or even in tacos
Healthier than takeout – Pan-fried with minimal oil and packed with omega-3 fatty acids
Kid-friendly – The mild spice level and bite-sized pieces make it perfect for the whole family
This recipe reminds me of those special Friday night dinners when we’d try something new together as a family—it’s comfort food with just enough excitement to make everyone happy.
Ingredient Note List
Fresh Salmon Fillet: I always recommend using fresh salmon when possible because it holds together better during cooking and gives you that perfect flaky texture inside the crispy coating.
Cornstarch: This is the secret to achieving that incredible crunch on your Bang Bang Salmon Bites—it creates a lighter, crispier coating than regular flour.
Sweet Chili Sauce: The sweet chili sauce provides the base sweetness for our Bang Bang sauce and adds that glossy finish that makes these bites look restaurant-quality.
Mayonnaise: I prefer using regular mayonnaise for the creamiest texture, though Greek yogurt works as a lighter alternative if you prefer.
Sriracha: Start with just a teaspoon and adjust to your family’s heat preference—you can always add more, but you can’t take it back out.
Honey: The honey balances the heat from the sriracha and adds that subtle sweetness that makes this sauce so addictive.
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice brightens up the entire dish and cuts through the richness of the mayonnaise beautifully.
Olive Oil: I use olive oil for pan-frying because it has a higher smoke point and adds a subtle flavor that complements the salmon.
Green Onions: These add a fresh pop of color and a mild onion flavor that doesn’t overpower the delicate salmon.
How to Cook Bang Bang Salmon Bites
Step 1. I usually start by patting the salmon pieces completely dry with paper towels and seasoning them with salt, pepper, and garlic powder—this helps the coating stick better and ensures even seasoning throughout.
Step 2. In my kitchen, I always use a shallow dish for the cornstarch to make coating easier, and I gently dredge each salmon piece, shaking off any excess to prevent clumps.
Step 3. I’ve found that heating the olive oil over medium-high heat gives you the perfect temperature for crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites without burning the coating.
Step 4. My grandmother always taught me not to overcrowd the pan, so I cook these salmon bites in a single layer, giving each piece space to develop that beautiful golden crust.
Step 5. I usually cook each side for about 2-3 minutes until they’re golden brown and crispy—the salmon should flake easily when done.
Step 6. While the salmon rests on paper towels, I whisk together the Bang Bang sauce ingredients in a small bowl, making sure everything is well combined.
Step 7. For best results, I recommend gently tossing the still-warm salmon bites with the sauce so it coats evenly without making the coating soggy.
Step 8. I always finish these Bang Bang Salmon Bites with fresh green onions and sesame seeds for that perfect restaurant-style presentation.
How to Store & Reheat
I usually store any leftover Bang Bang Salmon Bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. The coating might lose some of its crispiness, but the flavor remains delicious.
For longer storage, I recommend freezing the cooked salmon bites without the sauce for up to 2 months. Wrap them well in freezer-safe containers and add the Bang Bang sauce fresh when you’re ready to serve them again.
When it comes to reheating, I’ve found that using the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes gives you the best results for maintaining that crispy texture. You can also use an air fryer at 375°F for 4-5 minutes if you prefer—just like I do when making my Air Fryer Parmesan Zucchini Fries.. The microwave works in a pinch, but you’ll lose that wonderful crunch that makes these bites so special.
Bang Bang Salmon Bites
These crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites are coated in a spicy, creamy sauce with just the right sweetness. Perfect as a quick dinner, taco filling, or appetizer, and ready in just 20 minutes.
Pat salmon cubes completely dry with paper towels.
In a bowl, season salmon with salt, pepper, and garlic powder; toss to coat evenly.
Add cornstarch to a shallow dish and dredge each salmon cube lightly, shaking off excess.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Cook salmon bites in a single layer, 2–3 minutes per side, until golden and crispy. Avoid overcrowding.
Transfer cooked salmon to a paper towel–lined plate to drain excess oil.
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and lime juice.
Toss crispy salmon bites with sauce until evenly coated.
Transfer to a serving plate and garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, and red pepper flakes (if using).
Notes
Air fryer option: Cook salmon at 400°F for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway. Let salmon rest slightly before tossing with sauce for best texture. For lighter version, swap mayo with Greek yogurt. Store in the fridge for 3 days or freeze up to 2 months.
What to Serve with Bang Bang Salmon Bites
Steamed Jasmine Rice: The fluffy, neutral flavor of jasmine rice is perfect for soaking up any extra Bang Bang sauce and creates a satisfying complete meal.
Asian Cucumber Salad: A crisp, refreshing cucumber salad with rice vinegar provides the perfect cooling contrast to the spicy salmon bites.
Roasted Broccoli: In my kitchen, I often serve roasted broccoli alongside these bites because the slight char and crisp texture complement the creamy sauce beautifully.
Soft Flour Tortillas: These Bang Bang Salmon Bites make incredible fish tacos when wrapped in warm tortillas with shredded cabbage and avocado slices.
Coconut Rice: The subtle sweetness of coconut rice pairs wonderfully with the spicy-sweet Bang Bang sauce for a more tropical flavor profile.
Simple Mixed Greens: A light salad with sesame oil dressing adds freshness and helps balance the richness of these crispy salmon bites.
FAQs
How many calories are in Bang Bang Salmon Bites?
Each serving contains approximately 350 calories with 30 grams of protein, making these bites a nutritious and satisfying meal option that’s rich in healthy omega-3 fatty acids.
Are Bang Bang Salmon Bites healthy for you?
Yes, these salmon bites are quite healthy since salmon is packed with omega-3 fatty acids, high-quality protein, and essential nutrients, plus they’re pan-fried with minimal oil rather than deep-fried.
Can I make Bang Bang Salmon Bites in an air fryer?
Absolutely! I recommend cooking them at 400°F for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through for even browning—this method uses even less oil while maintaining that crispy texture.
What can I substitute for the mayonnaise in the Bang Bang sauce?
Greek yogurt works beautifully as a lighter alternative, or you can try avocado-based mayo for a different flavor profile while keeping that creamy texture we love.
