Bang Bang Salmon transforms your weeknight dinner routine with restaurant-quality results in just 15 minutes. This Asian-inspired dish combines perfectly seared salmon with a sweet and spicy sauce that’ll have your family asking for seconds every single time.
I still remember the first time I tried Bang Bang Salmon at a local restaurant—the combination of that crispy-edged fish with the creamy, spicy sauce was absolutely incredible. When I got home, I knew I had to recreate it in my own kitchen. After several attempts and plenty of taste-testing (my family didn’t mind!), I perfected this version that’s become our go-to weeknight meal. The best part is how quickly it comes together, making it perfect for those busy evenings when you want something special without the fuss. You’re going to love this one!
Why You’ll Love This Bang Bang Salmon
This Bang Bang Salmon recipe has become a staple in my kitchen because it delivers that perfect balance of flavors and textures that makes every bite satisfying. The sweet and spicy sauce paired with perfectly seared salmon creates an irresistible combination that feels fancy but requires minimal effort—similar to the creamy richness of my Creamy Garlic Tuscan Salmon.
- Ready in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- Uses simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry
- Delivers restaurant-quality results without leaving your kitchen
- Provides 68% of your daily protein needs in one delicious serving
- Creates a beautiful golden crust that locks in all the salmon’s natural flavors
- Perfectly balanced sweet, spicy, and savory flavors that appeal to the whole family
This recipe is more than just a quick dinner—it’s become my secret weapon for impressing guests while keeping stress levels low, just like my Sriracha Salmon Bowls when I want something bold and spicy.
Ingredient Note List
Salmon Fillets: I always recommend choosing skin-on fillets because they hold together better during cooking and the skin adds extra flavor when it gets crispy.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil works best for this recipe because it can handle the medium-high heat while adding a subtle richness to complement the fish.
Garlic Powder: Garlic powder distributes more evenly than fresh garlic and won’t burn during the high-heat searing process.
Paprika: This adds a beautiful color and mild smoky flavor that enhances the overall taste without overwhelming the delicate salmon.
Mayonnaise: Full-fat mayonnaise creates the creamiest base for the Bang Bang sauce, though Greek yogurt works as a lighter substitute.
Sweet Chili Sauce: This provides the perfect balance of sweetness and mild heat that makes the Bang Bang sauce so addictive.
Sriracha: Adjust this to your family’s heat preference—start with less and add more if needed since you can always make it spicier.
Honey: Pure honey adds natural sweetness that balances the spicy elements and helps the sauce cling to the salmon beautifully.
Fresh Lime Juice: The acidity brightens all the flavors and prevents the sauce from feeling too heavy or rich.
Green Onions: These add a fresh, mild onion flavor and beautiful color contrast that makes the dish look restaurant-worthy.
How to Cook Bang Bang Salmon
Step 1. I always start by patting the salmon fillets completely dry with paper towels—this is crucial for getting that beautiful golden sear instead of steaming the fish.
Step 2. Season the salmon generously on both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika, then gently press the seasonings into the flesh with your fingertips to help them stick.
Step 3. Heat your large skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil—I know it’s ready when the oil begins to shimmer but doesn’t smoke.
Step 4. Place the salmon in the pan skin-side down if using skin-on fillets, and here’s the key: don’t move them for 4-5 minutes to develop that perfect crust.
Step 5. While the salmon cooks, I prepare the Bang Bang sauce by whisking together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and lime juice until completely smooth.
Step 6. Flip the salmon once and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 125°F for medium or 145°F if you prefer it well-done.
Step 7. Remove the salmon from heat and let it rest for 1 minute—this helps the juices redistribute throughout the fish for the most tender results.
Step 8. Drizzle the Bang Bang sauce generously over the warm salmon and sprinkle with freshly chopped green onions for that perfect finishing touch.
How to Store & Reheat
I usually store any leftover Bang Bang Salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it stays fresh for up to 2 days. Make sure the salmon cools completely before sealing it to prevent moisture buildup that can make the fish soggy.
The Bang Bang sauce keeps beautifully when stored separately in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. I actually prefer storing the sauce and salmon separately because it maintains the best texture for both components.
For best results, I recommend reheating the salmon gently in a covered skillet over low heat with a tablespoon of water to create steam. This method prevents the fish from drying out and keeps it tender. You can also microwave it on 50% power in 30-second intervals, but the skillet method gives superior results every time.
Bang Bang Salmon
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Press seasoning gently into the flesh.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil begins to shimmer, it’s ready.
- Place salmon skin-side down (if using skin-on). Cook undisturbed for 4–5 minutes to develop a crust. Flip and cook another 2–3 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 125°F (medium) or 145°F (well-done).
- While the salmon cooks, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and lime juice until smooth.
- Remove salmon from heat and let rest for 1 minute. Drizzle with Bang Bang sauce and sprinkle with chopped green onions. Serve warm.
Notes
What to Serve With Bang Bang Salmon
Jasmine Rice: The fluffy, slightly sticky texture of jasmine rice is perfect for soaking up every drop of that delicious Bang Bang sauce—or try it with Garlic Butter Shrimp and Rice for a bold, satisfying twist.
Steamed Broccoli: The crisp-tender texture and mild flavor of steamed broccoli provides a healthy balance to the rich, saucy salmon.
Cauliflower Rice: For a lighter option, cauliflower rice lets the salmon be the star while adding extra vegetables to your plate.
Asian Cucumber Salad: A crisp, refreshing cucumber salad with rice vinegar dressing cuts through the richness beautifully and adds a cooling element.
Roasted Asparagus: The slight char and earthy flavor of roasted asparagus complements the Asian-inspired flavors perfectly.
Mixed Green Salad with Mango: Fresh greens topped with sweet mango chunks create a tropical twist that pairs wonderfully with the spicy-sweet sauce.
FAQs
Each serving contains approximately 425 calories, making it a satisfying yet reasonable dinner option that provides 34 grams of high-quality protein and heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids.
Yes, this recipe provides excellent nutritional value with 68% of your daily protein needs and beneficial omega-3 fatty acids that support heart and brain health, though the sauce does add some calories from mayonnaise.
Absolutely—I recommend starting with just 1 tablespoon of sriracha and tasting the sauce before adding more, or you can substitute half the sriracha with additional sweet chili sauce for milder heat.
The internal temperature should reach 125°F for medium doneness or 145°F for well-done, and the fish should flake easily with a fork while still being moist and tender throughout.
