If you love crispy, bite-sized seafood with a punch of flavor, these Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites are going to be your new obsession. They’re crunchy on the outside, tender and flaky inside, and coated in a creamy, spicy-sweet Bang Bang sauce that takes them over the top. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner, a fun appetizer, or even a snack when you’re craving something crispy and satisfying!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Crispy, crunchy perfection – The coating gives each bite the perfect crispiness.
The sauce is next-level – Bang Bang sauce is the perfect balance of spicy, sweet, and creamy.
Quick and easy – Ready in under 30 minutes with simple ingredients.
Great for any occasion – Serve as an appetizer, main dish, or even in tacos or rice bowls.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Fresh salmon fillets (skin removed)
Panko breadcrumbs
Cornstarch
Eggs
Garlic powder
Paprika
Salt and pepper
Oil for frying
Bang Bang sauce (mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, honey, and a splash of lime juice)
Full list of ingredients with exact measurements is below.

Step-by-Step Directions

Cut the Salmon Into Bite-Sized Pieces

Use a sharp knife to slice the salmon into even cubes, about 1-inch in size. This helps them cook evenly and gives you the perfect crispy-to-tender ratio.

Coat the Salmon

Set up a dredging station with three bowls: one with cornstarch, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs mixed with seasonings. Dip each salmon piece into the cornstarch, then egg, then panko mixture, pressing gently to help the coating stick.

Fry Until Golden and Crispy

Heat oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Fry the salmon bites in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook until golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Toss in Bang Bang Sauce

In a large bowl, mix mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, honey, and lime juice to create the Bang Bang sauce. Add the crispy salmon bites and toss gently to coat each piece in that delicious sauce.

Serve and Enjoy!

Serve immediately while hot and crispy. Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for extra flavor. Enjoy as is, or serve over rice, in tacos, or with a side of slaw.

Expert Tips and Tricks

Keep the oil at the right temperature – Too hot, and the salmon burns; too cool, and it gets greasy. Keep it around 350°F for perfect crispiness.
Don’t overcrowd the pan – Fry in batches to keep the salmon bites crispy.
Want it spicier? Add extra Sriracha to the Bang Bang sauce.
Prefer a lighter version? Air-fry or bake instead of frying.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

Air-Fryer Version – Spray with oil and air-fry at 400°F for about 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway.
Baked Version – Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 400°F for 12-15 minutes.
Dairy-Free Option – Use dairy-free mayo for the sauce.
Gluten-Free Option – Swap panko for gluten-free breadcrumbs and use cornstarch.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

These crispy salmon bites pair perfectly with steamed rice, coconut rice, or even tucked into tacos with shredded cabbage and extra Bang Bang sauce. Serve with a side of roasted veggies, fries, or a refreshing cucumber salad to balance the richness.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a container for up to 1 month. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for crispiness.
Reheating: Warm in the air fryer or oven at 375°F for 5-7 minutes to maintain crispiness. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes! Just make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before cooking.

How do I make the sauce less spicy?

Reduce the Sriracha and add more honey or mayo to mellow the heat.

Can I prepare these ahead of time?

You can bread the salmon pieces in advance and keep them in the fridge for a few hours before frying.

What oil is best for frying?

Use a neutral oil like vegetable, canola, or peanut oil for the best results.

The Final Bite

These Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites are ridiculously delicious and so easy to make. Whether you’re serving them as a snack, appetizer, or main dish, they’re guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Give them a try and let me know what you think!

Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites You Won’t Be Able to Stop Eating

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These Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites are crunchy on the outside, tender and flaky inside, and coated in a creamy, spicy-sweet Bang Bang sauce. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner, a fun appetizer, or even a snack when you’re craving something crispy and satisfying!

Author: Touria Elkoudssi
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Appetizer, Main Course
Method: Frying (with air fryer and baking options)
Cuisine: Fusion (Asian-American)

Instructions

Prepare the Salmon:
- Cut the salmon into 1-inch bite-sized pieces.
Set Up the Dredging Station:
- In three separate bowls:
  - Place cornstarch in the first bowl.
  - Beat the eggs in the second bowl.
  - Mix panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper in the third bowl.
Coat the Salmon:
- Dip each salmon piece into the cornstarch, ensuring an even coat.
- Next, dip into the beaten eggs.
- Finally, coat with the seasoned panko mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
Fry the Salmon Bites:
- Heat oil in a pan over medium-high heat to approximately 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the salmon bites in batches, avoiding overcrowding the pan.
- Cook each piece for about 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
- Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce:
- In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, honey, and lime juice until smooth.
Toss and Serve:
- Add the fried salmon bites to the bowl with the sauce.
- Gently toss to coat each piece evenly.
- Serve immediately, garnished with chopped green onions or sesame seeds if desired.

Notes

Air Fryer Version: Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the coated salmon bites in a single layer, spray lightly with cooking oil, and air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Baked Version: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the coated salmon bites on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spray lightly with cooking oil, and bake for 12-15 minutes until golden and cooked through.
Adjusting Spice Level: For a spicier kick, increase the amount of Sriracha in the sauce. For a milder flavor, reduce the Sriracha and add more honey.