I’m always looking for quick, flavorful weeknight dinners that don’t sacrifice taste for convenience—and these Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon Bites check every box. They’re crispy on the outside, tender and juicy on the inside, and tossed in that irresistible sweet-spicy Bang Bang sauce that I could probably eat with a spoon. The best part? They come together in under 30 minutes, and the air fryer does all the heavy lifting.
If you love bold flavors and easy cleanup (who doesn’t?), this recipe is about to become one of your go-to’s. Whether you’re serving them over rice, tucking them into lettuce wraps, or enjoying them as a high-protein snack, these salmon bites are versatile and super satisfying. Let’s break it down so you can whip them up tonight!
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Salmon:
You’ll want a fresh, skinless salmon fillet for this. Look for a firm piece with vibrant color and little to no fishy smell. It’s the star of the dish, so quality matters! I typically go for center-cut fillets for uniform bite-sized pieces.
Cornstarch:
This is the secret to that perfect crispy coating in the air fryer. It creates a light crust that helps the sauce cling beautifully without being heavy or greasy.
Salt & Pepper:
Simple but essential. Seasoning the salmon before coating helps bring out its natural flavor and balances the sweetness of the sauce.
Cooking Spray or Oil Spray:
A light spray ensures your salmon bites crisp up evenly in the air fryer without sticking to the basket. Don’t skip this—it makes cleanup easier too.
Mayonnaise:
This is the base for the bang bang sauce. It gives it that creamy, rich texture that pairs so well with the heat and sweetness of the other ingredients.
Sweet Chili Sauce:
Here’s where the magic happens. It adds sweetness and tang with just a little kick. You can find it in most grocery store international aisles.
Sriracha:
For those who like a little heat, sriracha turns up the spice level in the bang bang sauce. Adjust to your preference—I like mine with a little fire!
Honey (optional):
If you like your bang bang sauce a tad sweeter, a drizzle of honey can round out the flavor beautifully. Totally optional but highly recommended.
Green Onions or Sesame Seeds (for garnish):
These finishing touches add freshness and a bit of crunch. They also make the dish look great if you’re serving guests or posting to Instagram!
Ingredients List
- 1 pound salmon fillet, skin removed and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Cooking spray
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1 teaspoon sriracha (or to taste)
- 1 teaspoon honey (optional)
For garnish (optional):
- Chopped green onions or sesame seeds
How to Make Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon Bites
Prep the Salmon
Start by patting your salmon dry with a paper towel. This helps the coating stick better and gives you crispier bites. Cut into even 1-inch cubes and season with salt and pepper.
Coat with Cornstarch
In a bowl, gently toss the salmon cubes with cornstarch until they’re evenly coated. Don’t overdo it—you just want a light dusting to help them crisp up.
Air Fry the Salmon
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (about 3 minutes). Lightly spray the basket with cooking spray. Arrange the salmon in a single layer, leaving space between each piece. Air fry for 7-9 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until golden and cooked through.
Make the Bang Bang Sauce
While the salmon is cooking, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and honey in a small bowl until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust the spice level if needed.
Toss and Serve
Once the salmon bites are done, transfer them to a bowl and gently toss them with the bang bang sauce until coated. Garnish with green onions or sesame seeds and serve immediately.
Tips for Making this Recipe
- Don’t skip patting the salmon dry—moisture will prevent it from crisping properly.
- Cut evenly so the salmon cooks uniformly. Too small, and they may overcook; too large, and the centers could stay raw.
- Work in batches if needed. Crowding the air fryer leads to soggy bites.
- Customize the sauce! Add a squeeze of lime for brightness, or a bit of garlic powder for extra depth.
- Serving ideas: Over jasmine rice, in lettuce cups, or alongside a fresh cucumber salad.
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, just make sure it’s fully thawed and patted dry before coating and cooking.
How spicy is this dish?
It’s mildly spicy, but you can adjust the sriracha to your liking. Add more for a kick, or reduce it for a milder flavor.
What can I substitute for mayonnaise?
You can use Greek yogurt for a lighter version, but the sauce will be a bit tangier.
How long does it keep?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer for best texture.
Can I make this without an air fryer?
Absolutely! You can bake the salmon at 400°F for about 12-15 minutes, flipping once halfway through.