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This hearty air fryer bang bang salmon bites recipe transforms ordinary salmon into an extraordinary meal with minimal effort. The crispy exterior and succulent interior of these perfectly cooked bites, all coated in a sweet-spicy sauce, will have everyone requesting seconds.
I created this recipe when my family was stuck in a salmon rut, making the same baked fillets week after week. These bite-sized morsels with their addictive sauce completely reinvigorated our weeknight dinner routine, and now they're our most requested fish dish.
Ingredients
- Salmon: fresh, high-quality cuts are crucial for this recipe as they provide the best flavor and texture
- Extra virgin olive oil: helps create that beautiful exterior while keeping the salmon moist
- Paprika: adds a subtle smoky quality that complements the sweetness in the sauce
- Garlic powder: infuses the salmon with aromatic flavor without burning like fresh garlic might
- Kosher salt: enhances all the flavors while helping to create a perfectly cooked exterior
- Black pepper: adds a mild heat that balances the sweet components
- Mayonnaise: forms the creamy base of our bang bang sauce providing richness
- Thai sweet chili sauce: delivers that signature sticky sweetness with mild heat
- Sriracha: brings the bang to bang bang sauce, adjust according to your heat preference
- Honey: balances the heat with natural sweetness while helping the sauce caramelize
- Chives: add a fresh finishing touch and beautiful color contrast
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Get your air fryer nice and hot at 390°F before you begin. This ensures the salmon gets that beautiful exterior without overcooking the inside. A properly preheated air fryer is essential for that restaurant-quality result.
- Season the Salmon:
- Combine olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a large bowl until they form a uniform seasoning blend. Add your salmon bites and gently toss them to ensure each piece gets thoroughly coated. The oil helps the seasonings adhere while promoting browning.
- Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey until completely smooth and uniform. This sauce should have a beautiful coral-pink color with visible flecks of chili. Divide this sauce into two portions, setting half aside for serving.
- Coat the Salmon:
- Take your seasoned salmon bites and toss them in half of your prepared bang bang sauce. Make sure each piece gets thoroughly coated but handle gently to keep the salmon pieces intact. The sauce should cling to each piece evenly.
- Air Fry to Perfection:
- Arrange the coated salmon bites in a single layer in your air fryer basket, being careful not to overcrowd. Air fry for 4-5 minutes, then flip each piece and continue cooking for another 4-5 minutes. The salmon should reach an internal temperature of 140-145°F and have a beautiful caramelized exterior.
- Sauce and Garnish:
- Transfer your cooked salmon bites to a serving plate and drizzle generously with your reserved bang bang sauce. The contrast between the caramelized cooked sauce and the fresh sauce creates incredible depth of flavor. Sprinkle with freshly chopped chives for a pop of color and fresh flavor.
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My favorite thing about this recipe is the versatility of the bang bang sauce. I first discovered it at a local seafood restaurant and spent months perfecting my homemade version. The balance of creamy, sweet, and spicy elements makes it irresistible, and my family now keeps a jar in the refrigerator at all times for impromptu dipping.
Storing Leftovers
Leftover salmon bites will keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For best results, store the sauce separately from the salmon to prevent sogginess. When reheating, place the salmon bites back in the air fryer at 350°F for just 2-3 minutes until warmed through. This prevents the salmon from drying out while reviving some of that exterior texture. The sauce can be stored separately for up to a week and used on other proteins or as a dipping sauce for vegetables.
Customizing Your Bang Bang Sauce
The beauty of this sauce is how easily it can be adapted to your taste preferences. For a milder version that kids love, reduce or omit the Sriracha and increase the honey slightly. If you're a heat enthusiast, double the Sriracha and add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few drops of your favorite hot sauce. For a more complex flavor profile, try adding a tablespoon of toasted sesame oil and some lime zest. The sauce can also be made lighter by substituting Greek yogurt for half of the mayonnaise, though this will change the texture slightly.
Serving Suggestions
These salmon bites shine as both an appetizer or main course depending on how you serve them. For a complete meal, place them atop a bed of steamed jasmine rice or coconut rice to soak up the delicious sauce. A simple cucumber salad dressed with rice vinegar makes a refreshing side that cuts through the richness. They also work beautifully as part of an Asian-inspired grain bowl with edamame, avocado, and pickled vegetables. For entertaining, serve these on small skewers with a ramekin of extra sauce for dipping and watch them disappear in minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How do I ensure my salmon stays crispy in the air fryer?
Do not overcrowd the basket and ensure the salmon is evenly coated with the olive oil and seasoning mix. This helps achieve a perfectly crispy texture.
- → Can I use a different fish instead of salmon?
Yes, you can substitute salmon with other firm fish like cod or mahi-mahi. Just ensure the bites are evenly sized for uniform cooking.
- → What can I use instead of Thai sweet chili sauce?
For a similar flavor profile, mix honey, vinegar, and a touch of chili flakes as a substitute for Thai sweet chili sauce.
- → How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover salmon bites in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer to maintain crispiness.
- → Can I make the Bang Bang sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce up to two days in advance. Store it in the refrigerator in a sealed container until ready to use.