Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites

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These Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites are one of those recipes I keep coming back to—not just because they’re ridiculously easy, but because they pack an explosion of flavor in every bite. The salmon is seared until golden and crisp on the outside, yet buttery soft and flaky inside. Then it gets coated in a creamy, spicy bang bang sauce that’s got just the right amount of tang, sweetness, and heat. When I serve these at gatherings, they disappear faster than I can plate them.

I first whipped these up as a casual appetizer, but they quickly earned their spot as a star on weeknight dinner plates and game day spreads. They’re quick enough for a spontaneous dinner and impressive enough for a party platter. Whether you skewer them with toothpicks or serve them over rice or salad, one thing’s for sure—they never disappoint.

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Why You’ll Love These Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites

• Incredible texture: crispy crust meets tender salmon
• Big flavor: spicy, creamy, sweet, and savory all at once
• Quick to make: ready in under 30 minutes
• Crowd-pleasing: perfect for parties, potlucks, or weeknight meals
• Customizable: adjust the heat, sauce, or serving style to your liking

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What Kind of Salmon Should I Use for Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites?

I recommend using fresh, skinless salmon fillets for this recipe. Look for center-cut fillets—they give you nice, even chunks that cook uniformly. Wild-caught salmon like sockeye or coho brings a deeper flavor, but farm-raised salmon works just as well, especially if it’s fresh and firm. If frozen salmon is all you have, be sure it’s fully thawed and patted dry to avoid any excess moisture that can prevent crisping.

The key is to choose a fillet that’s not too thin, so each bite has enough body to get that golden crust without drying out in the middle.

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Options for Substitutions

If you want to change things up or work with what’s in your kitchen, here are a few ways to tweak the recipe without losing its charm:

• Fish: Try using cubed cod, halibut, or even shrimp instead of salmon.
• Sauce base: Greek yogurt or sour cream can sub for mayo if you’re looking for a lighter twist.
• Spice level: Dial it up with extra sriracha or tone it down by mixing in honey or a splash of lime juice.
• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed rice crackers for the coating.
• Air fryer method: Skip the skillet and air fry the salmon bites for a crisp finish with less oil.

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Ingredients for Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites

Salmon fillets
The star of the show. You’ll want firm, skinless, boneless salmon cut into bite-sized cubes for even cooking and the perfect crispy edge.

Paprika
Adds a warm, smoky flavor and beautiful color to the salmon coating.

Garlic powder
Brings depth and savory punch to every bite.

Salt & pepper
Essential for enhancing the natural flavor of the salmon.

Cornstarch or all-purpose flour
Used to lightly dust the salmon for that crisp, golden exterior when seared. Cornstarch gives an especially crunchy texture.

Olive oil or neutral cooking oil
Helps sear the salmon cubes to a perfect crust in the skillet.

Mayonnaise
Forms the creamy base of the bang bang sauce. It balances the heat and gives the sauce its velvety texture.

Sweet chili sauce
Brings a sweet, tangy flavor with a gentle kick—an essential bang bang element.

Sriracha
Adds that bold, spicy heat to the sauce. You can adjust to taste.

Lime juice
A splash of brightness to cut through the richness of the sauce.

Fresh parsley or chives
For a pop of color and freshness as a garnish. Optional, but it elevates the presentation beautifully.

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Step 1: Prep the Salmon

Start by patting your salmon fillets dry with a paper towel—this helps the coating stick better and ensures you get that perfect crust. Cut the salmon into even, bite-sized cubes, about 1 to 1½ inches each.

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Step 2: Season and Coat

In a bowl, toss the salmon cubes with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Then lightly dust them with cornstarch or flour until each piece is evenly coated. This creates that crispy golden crust when seared.

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Step 3: Sear the Salmon

Heat oil in a nonstick or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the salmon bites in a single layer (you might need to work in batches). Cook for 2–3 minutes on each side until crisp and golden. Be gentle when flipping so they keep their shape.

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Step 4: Make the Bang Bang Sauce

While the salmon cooks, mix mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and a splash of lime juice in a small bowl until smooth. Taste and adjust the heat or sweetness if needed.

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Step 5: Sauce It Up

Once the salmon is cooked, either drizzle the bang bang sauce over the bites or toss them gently in a bowl with the sauce to coat. Finish with freshly chopped parsley or chives.

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How Long to Cook Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites

The salmon itself cooks very quickly—just 2 to 3 minutes per side over medium-high heat. With prep and searing, the entire dish comes together in about 20 to 25 minutes.

You’ll know the salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and the coating is golden brown and crisp. Try not to overcook, as salmon can dry out fast once it’s past that sweet spot.

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Tips for Perfect Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites

• Dry your salmon well before seasoning—it helps the coating stick and ensures a crisp sear.
• Use even-sized cubes so they all cook at the same rate.
• Don’t overcrowd the skillet—give the bites room so they crisp, not steam.
• Let the oil get hot before adding salmon for that signature golden crust.
• Taste the sauce before serving—adjust heat and sweetness based on your preference.
• Serve immediately after saucing for the best balance of crispness and flavor.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Skipping the pat dry step: Moisture is the enemy of crispiness. Wet salmon won’t sear properly and will steam instead.
• Cutting uneven chunks: If the salmon pieces vary in size, some will overcook while others stay underdone.
• Using low heat: You need medium-high heat to get that nice sear—low heat will leave your salmon soggy.
• Overcrowding the pan: This causes the salmon to steam, not crisp. Cook in batches if needed.
• Saucing too early: Wait until after cooking to add the sauce. Heating the sauce with the fish can make it greasy and lose its zing.
• Overcooking: Salmon cooks fast. Going just a minute too long can dry it out. Keep a close eye.

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What to Serve With Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites?

Asian Slaw

Crisp cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing balance the richness of the salmon beautifully.

Jasmine Rice or Coconut Rice

A soft, fragrant base to soak up all the extra bang bang sauce.

Pickled Cucumbers

A tangy, crunchy side that refreshes the palate between bites.

Lettuce Cups

Wrap the salmon bites in butter lettuce for a low-carb, fresh twist.

Sweet Potato Fries

The sweet, crisp fries pair so well with the creamy spicy sauce.

Steamed Dumplings

Serve as part of a finger-food feast with gyoza or potstickers.

Cold Sesame Noodles

Creamy and nutty with a hint of spice—an excellent match for the salmon.

Mini Slider Buns

Turn them into sliders for a fun party appetizer or casual dinner idea.

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Storage Instructions

If you have leftovers, store the salmon bites and the bang bang sauce separately to preserve the crispiness.

• Refrigerate: Place the cooled salmon bites in an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: To bring back the crisp texture, reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in an air fryer at 375°F for 5–6 minutes. Avoid microwaving—they’ll lose their crunch.
• Sauce: Keep the sauce in a small jar or container in the fridge for up to 1 week. Give it a quick stir before using again.

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Estimated Nutrition (per serving, based on 4 servings)

• Calories: 410
• Protein: 28g
• Fat: 27g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Sugar: 5g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sodium: 520mg
• Cholesterol: 70mg

These numbers can vary slightly depending on the size of your salmon pieces, the amount of sauce used, and any substitutions made.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is bang bang sauce made of?

Bang bang sauce typically combines mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha. Some versions also add honey, lime juice, or garlic for extra flavor.

Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, just make sure it’s fully thawed and patted dry before seasoning and cooking. Excess moisture will prevent it from crisping.

Is this recipe spicy?

It has a mild to medium kick depending on how much sriracha you use. You can easily adjust the heat by using less (or more!) sriracha in the sauce.

Can I make these in the air fryer?

Absolutely! Spray the coated salmon cubes lightly with oil and air fry at 400°F for 8–10 minutes, shaking halfway through.

What oil is best for searing the salmon?

Neutral oils like avocado, canola, or grapeseed oil are great because they have a high smoke point. Olive oil works too if you keep an eye on the heat.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prep and season the salmon ahead of time and refrigerate it, but cook it fresh just before serving to keep the crisp texture. The sauce can be made a few days in advance.

How do I keep the salmon crispy after cooking?

Don’t cover the salmon with sauce until you’re ready to eat. Store them uncovered or on a paper towel-lined plate to help retain texture.

Can I bake the salmon instead?

Yes, bake the coated salmon cubes at 425°F for 12–15 minutes. They won’t be quite as crisp as pan-seared, but still delicious!

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Conclusion

Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites are the perfect combo of crunch, spice, and creamy indulgence—all packed into bite-sized pieces. Whether you’re throwing a party, looking for a quick dinner, or just craving something bold and satisfying, this recipe delivers every time. It’s flexible, fast, and sure to become a regular in your kitchen rotation. I love how easy it is to customize, and once you try it, I think you’ll be just as hooked.

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