Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites

Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites are my go to when I want something fast but crave that punch of flavor and texture. The outside is golden and crunchy the salmon is still moist and all of it is covered in this rich creamy spicy sauce I swear everyone asks for seconds. I love serving this alongside a steaming bowl of jasmine rice but you can dream up endless combos. Whether you want a fun starter or need a main meal these salmon bites will not let you down.

The first time I made this was for friends on game night and they all thought I had ordered in It is now a regular request at family gatherings because there are never any leftovers

Ingredients

• Salmon fillets: Select center cut for even size cubes and look for bright color with minimal browning for the freshest bites
• Olive oil: Adds richness and helps the seasonings stick Choose extra virgin for the best flavor
• Garlic powder: Boosts the savory depth without overpowering the salmon
• Onion powder: Gives subtle sweetness and a layered flavor
• Smoked paprika: Brings a smoky kick and beautiful color Opt for Spanish or Hungarian varieties for brightness
• Salt: Enhances all the other flavors Use kosher salt for easy control
• Black pepper: Gives a gentle warmth and balance Use freshly cracked for the best punch
• Cayenne pepper: Only if you like it extra spicy Adds heat and contrast
• Mayonnaise: The creamy base for Bang Bang sauce Use quality real mayo for smoothness
• Thai sweet chili sauce: Lends a tangy sweet bite Look for brands with visible chili flakes for best taste
• Sriracha sauce: Gives the signature spicy note Add more if you like bold heat
• Honey: Smooths out the heat and brightens the sauce Select raw or pure honey for real depth
• Lime juice: Freshly squeezed lifts the whole sauce with acidity and zing

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the Salmon:

Pat each piece of salmon very dry using paper towels This is essential for getting a crisp finish and helps the oil and spices cling well

Cut Salmon into Cubes:

Slice the skinless fillets into one inch cubes Try to keep the pieces uniform so they cook evenly and get the same level of crispy outside

Season the Salmon:

Place cubes in a bowl Drizzle with olive oil then sprinkle garlic powder onion powder smoked paprika salt black pepper and cayenne Mix with clean hands or a soft spatula until every side is seasoned and glossy

Make the Bang Bang Sauce:

Add mayonnaise Thai sweet chili sauce sriracha honey and lime juice to a mixing bowl Whisk until totally smooth and uniform Taste and tweak if you want it sweeter or hotter

Cook the Salmon:

Heat a non stick skillet over medium high with a touch of olive oil Add the cubes in a single layer with a little space around each one Let them cook for two to three minutes before nudging them so they brown deeply Repeat on all sides until they are firm golden and still moist inside Remove to a plate lined with paper towels

Sauce the Salmon Bites:

Transfer the crisp salmon to your serving platter Drizzle generously with sauce or toss gently in a bowl for full coating

Garnish and Serve:

Top with finely chopped parsley green onions or sesame for crunch Serve right away while the salmon is at its crispiest

Pin

My favorite part is honestly how the sweet chili sauce plays with the rich salmon I made these once for a family cookout and my niece used all the sauce as a dip for her fries too This is one of those dishes that makes everyone happy no matter the mood

Storage Tips

To keep leftovers crispy store the salmon and sauce separately Use an airtight container for the cooked bites Refrigerate up to two days and reheat in a hot skillet or toaster oven to revive the crunch Never microwave if you want to keep the texture

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap salmon for skinless snapper or cod if needed For a lighter sauce go with Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise If you want a different kind of heat try sambal oelek instead of sriracha

Serving Suggestions

These bites are amazing over fluffy jasmine rice or tucked into warm tortillas for quick tacos For a lighter meal top a crisp salad with the salmon and add an extra drizzle of sauce

Pin

Cultural and Historical Context

Bang Bang sauce originally hails from Asian fusion cooking with roots in Americanized Thai and Chinese restaurants While the sauce is sweet and spicy the crisp salmon brings a fresh seafood twist I love how this recipe bridges comfort food with a little global flair

FAQs About the Recipe

→ What type of salmon works best?

Fresh, skinless salmon fillets are ideal for a tender, flaky bite and easy seasoning coverage.

→ Can I air fry or bake instead of pan-searing?

Yes! Air frying or baking yields a crispy texture with less oil, just adjust timing as needed for bite-sized pieces.

→ How spicy is the Bang Bang sauce?

The sauce is mildly spicy from sriracha and sweet chili; adjust sriracha for more or less heat.

→ What sides pair well with these bites?

Steamed jasmine rice, roasted vegetables, or a crisp salad complement the bold flavors and textures.

→ How do I keep the salmon crispy after cooking?

Serve immediately after coating with sauce or drizzle sauce just before eating to maintain crispiness.

→ Can leftovers be stored?

Yes, store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days and reheat gently to preserve texture.