Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon Bites

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Getting dinner on the table that everyone loves doesn’t have to be complicated.

Air fryer bang bang salmon bites offer a quick and flavorful option that’s both healthy and satisfying.

These bite-sized pieces of salmon are coated in a crispy layer and topped with a tangy, spicy sauce that’s sure to become a favorite.

Whether for a weeknight meal or a special gathering, these salmon bites make it easy to serve something delicious without the fuss.

Table of Contents

Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon Bites Recipe

Ingredients

For the Salmon

1 ½ pounds salmon, skinless, cut into 1-inch cubes
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Bang Bang Sauce

1 cup mayonnaise
½ cup Thai sweet chili sauce
2 teaspoons Sriracha or more if you like it spicier
2 tablespoons honey
Chopped chives for garnish

Instructions

Set your air fryer to 390°F and let it warm up.
In a large bowl, mix together the olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add the salmon pieces and gently toss them until they’re evenly coated with the seasoning.
In another bowl, stir together the mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey until smooth and well-combined.
Take half of the Bang Bang sauce and set it aside for later. Toss the seasoned salmon pieces in the remaining sauce, making sure each piece is well-coated.
Place the salmon bites in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure not to overcrowd them. Cook for 4-5 minutes, then flip them over and cook for another 4-5 minutes, or until the salmon reaches an internal temperature of 140-145°F.
Transfer the cooked salmon to a plate, drizzle with the reserved Bang Bang sauce, and garnish with chopped chives. Serve immediately.

What Type Of Salmon Is Best For Salmon Bites?

For making the best salmon bites, opt for Atlantic salmon or King salmon.

These types are known for their rich flavor and buttery texture, which make them perfect for this recipe.

Atlantic salmon is widely available and has a higher fat content, making it juicy and tender when cooked.

King salmon, though more expensive, offers a deep flavor and firm texture that holds up well in the air fryer.

If you’re looking for a leaner option, Sockeye salmon is a good choice, but keep in mind that it has a stronger flavor and firmer texture.

Regardless of the type, make sure the salmon is fresh or properly thawed if frozen, and always remove the skin for the best results.

How To Serve Bang Bang Salmon Bites?

Bang Bang Salmon Bites are versatile and can be served in a variety of ways.

They work great as a main dish with a side of steamed rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad.

If you’re hosting a party, these bites can be served on a platter with toothpicks for easy snacking.

You can also pair them with some crunchy veggies like cucumber or carrot sticks for added texture.

A drizzle of extra Bang Bang sauce or a side of dipping sauce makes them even more flavorful.

Substitutions For Bang Bang Salmon Bites

If you don’t have all the ingredients on hand or want to switch things up, here are some easy substitutions:

Salmon: You can use other types of fish like cod, tilapia, or even shrimp. Just make sure the cooking time is adjusted accordingly.
Mayonnaise: For a lighter version, you can use Greek yogurt or a vegan mayo alternative.
Sriracha: If Sriracha isn’t available, you can use any hot sauce or even a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat.
Honey: Maple syrup or agave nectar can be used as a substitute for honey.

Variations For Bang Bang Salmon Bites

There are plenty of ways to customize your Bang Bang Salmon Bites:

Spicier: Add more Sriracha or sprinkle some red pepper flakes into the sauce.
Sweeter: Increase the amount of honey or sweet chili sauce for a sweeter kick.
Crispier: Coat the salmon bites with panko breadcrumbs before air frying for an extra crispy texture.

Can I Make Bang Bang Salmon Bites Ahead Of Time?

Yes, you can prepare Bang Bang Salmon Bites ahead of time.

You can season the salmon and make the sauce a few hours in advance, keeping everything in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.

If you want to save even more time, you can cook the salmon bites and refrigerate them.

When you’re ready to serve, just reheat them in the air fryer for a few minutes until they’re warm and crispy.

However, it’s best to add the Bang Bang sauce just before serving to keep the salmon bites from becoming soggy.

How To Store Bang Bang Salmon Bites?

If you have leftover Bang Bang Salmon Bites, let them cool to room temperature. Place them in an airtight container.

You can store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the salmon bites.

Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible to avoid freezer burn. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

How To Reheat Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon Bites?

To reheat your Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon Bites, set your air fryer to 350°F.

Place the salmon bites in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they aren’t touching.

Heat them for 3-4 minutes, or until they are warmed through and crispy again.

Avoid microwaving them, as this can make the salmon bites soggy.

Dietary Adaptations

If you need to adjust the recipe for specific dietary needs, here are some easy options:

Gluten-Free: The original recipe is gluten-free, but always check your condiments, like the sweet chili sauce and Sriracha, to ensure they are gluten-free as well.
Dairy-Free: The recipe is naturally dairy-free, so no changes are needed.
Low-Carb/Keto: Replace the honey with a sugar-free sweetener like stevia or monk fruit, and check that your sweet chili sauce is low-carb.

Tips For Making Perfect Bang Bang Salmon Bites

Don’t Overcrowd: When cooking the salmon bites in the air fryer, make sure they are placed in a single layer. Overcrowding can cause them to cook unevenly.
Use Fresh Salmon: Fresh salmon gives the best flavor and texture, but if you’re using frozen, make sure it’s fully thawed and patted dry before cooking.
Control the Heat: Adjust the amount of Sriracha in the sauce depending on your spice preference. Start with less, and add more if needed.