Name: Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Ingredients: 1 pound salmon fillet, skinless and cut into bite-sized cubes; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1/4 cup mayonnaise; 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce; 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to taste); 1 tablespoon lime juice; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

If you’re looking for a spicy-sweet appetizer or dinner idea that’s as easy as it is impressive, these Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites deliver flavor in every golden bite. Coated in a smoky spice blend, seared to crispy perfection, and then drizzled with a creamy, tangy bang bang sauce, they make a crowd-pleasing dish that’s high in protein and bold in taste.

Whether you’re hosting friends by the pool or just want a quick weeknight meal that doesn’t skimp on satisfaction, these salmon bites have you covered. They come together in under 30 minutes, and the texture is irresistible—crispy edges with buttery-soft centers.

What Kind of Salmon Should I Use for Salmon Bites?

Opt for skinless salmon fillets, preferably center-cut for even cubes. Wild-caught salmon like sockeye or coho offers rich flavor and firm texture, but farm-raised Atlantic salmon works well too. The key is fresh, firm fish that holds up during searing.

Ingredients for the Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites

Salmon: The star of the dish. Cut into bite-sized chunks, it crisps beautifully and stays juicy inside.

Smoked Paprika: Adds depth and subtle smokiness to the seasoning mix.

Garlic Powder: Enhances the savory flavor of the salmon without overwhelming it.

Salt and Pepper: Basic seasonings to balance and elevate every bite.

Olive Oil: Used for searing the salmon and giving it that golden crust.

Mayonnaise: Base of the bang bang sauce for creaminess.

Sweet Chili Sauce: Brings that signature sweet heat to the sauce.

Sriracha: Adds a spicy kick that balances the cream and sweet elements.

Lime Juice: Brightens and balances the richness of the sauce.

Fresh Parsley: Optional, but it adds a pop of color and freshness when sprinkled on top.

How To Make the Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites

Step 1: Prepare the Salmon

Pat the salmon dry with paper towels and cut it into even, bite-sized cubes. This ensures even cooking and a crisp sear.

Step 2: Season the Salmon

Toss the cubes in a bowl with smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until evenly coated. Let it sit for a few minutes while you heat the pan.

Step 3: Sear to Perfection

In a hot skillet, add a swirl of olive oil. Once shimmering, sear the salmon pieces for about 2-3 minutes per side until golden and crispy outside and tender inside. Work in batches if needed to avoid crowding the pan.

Step 4: Make the Bang Bang Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and lime juice until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust spice level as desired.

Step 5: Drizzle and Garnish

Plate the salmon bites, drizzle generously with the bang bang sauce, and sprinkle fresh parsley over the top. Serve immediately for the best texture.

How to Serve and Store Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites

These bites are best served hot right after searing, with extra bang bang sauce on the side. Pair them with a crisp salad, rice bowl, or even tuck them into tacos for a fun twist.

To store leftovers, refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet or air fryer to regain the crispiness—microwaving will make them soft.

Frequently Asked Questions

How spicy is the bang bang sauce?

It has a mild to medium heat depending on how much sriracha you add. You can easily adjust it to your preference.

Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, just thaw it completely and pat it dry thoroughly before seasoning to avoid excess moisture in the pan.

Can I bake or air fry the salmon bites?

Absolutely. Bake at 400°F for about 10-12 minutes or air fry at 390°F for 8-10 minutes until crispy.

Is there a healthier sauce option?

You can swap mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter version that still tastes amazing.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, the recipe is naturally dairy-free as long as your mayo is dairy-free.

Want More Seafood Appetizer Ideas?

If you love these crispy bang bang salmon bites, you might also enjoy these delicious dishes:

Creamy Garlic Marry Me Salmon for a romantic seafood dinner.
Pan-Fried Salmon with Garlic Butter Sauce for a quick and flavorful skillet meal.
Irresistible Grilled Salmon with the Best Salmon Seasoning if you love outdoor grilling.
Easy Thai Red Curry Dumpling Soup for something cozy and spiced.
Cajun Shrimp Scampi if you’re in the mood for garlicky spice and seafood.

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest appetizer or dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add extra heat or go mild? Try it in tacos or over rice?

I love hearing how you customize your dishes. Questions and feedback are always welcome—let’s make this dish even better together.

For more daily recipe inspiration, follow me on Pinterest @hallarecipes.

Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites

Author: Jam Scott
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

Print Recipe

Description

These Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites are golden on the outside and tender on the inside, drizzled with a spicy-sweet bang bang sauce that brings irresistible flavor. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or a showstopping appetizer.