The first time I tossed a tray of these Bang Bang Salmon Bites into my oven, the kitchen was filled with this toasty, garlicky aroma that made my stomach growl before the timer even hit halfway. You know that feeling when something’s sizzling away, and you just know it’s going to be a hit? That’s exactly what happened. I stumbled on the idea for crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites when I was desperately craving takeout but wanted something healthier (and, let’s be honest, way less greasy). One quick pantry raid later, and this recipe was born—crunchy, juicy salmon cubes tossed in a spicy-sweet, creamy sauce that clings to every bite.
What I love most about this dish is how genuinely quick it is. You can have dinner prepped, cooked, and on the table in just about 30 minutes. There’s no deep frying, no hard-to-find ingredients, and, honestly, no reason to be intimidated by seafood. If you’ve been hesitant to cook fish at home, these Bang Bang Salmon Bites are basically foolproof. I’ve tested this recipe at least a dozen times (sometimes two nights in a row!) and it comes out crispy, juicy, and flavorful every single time.
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, healthy meal prep, or impressing friends at a casual dinner. It’s loaded with protein from fresh salmon, and the Bang Bang sauce is so good, you’ll want to drizzle it on everything—or just eat it by the spoonful (no judgment here). Whether you’re a seafood lover or someone just dipping their toes into cooking fish, these Bang Bang Salmon Bites will win you over. Trust me, you’ll want to keep this one in your regular dinner rotation!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, which means you can whip up a restaurant-style dinner even on your busiest nights.
- Simple Ingredients: No specialty store runs required—all the ingredients for these Bang Bang Salmon Bites are likely already in your kitchen or easy to find at any grocery store.
- Ultimate Weeknight Dinner: These salmon bites are perfect for a cozy family dinner, a fun appetizer for game night, or even meal prep for the week ahead.
- Crowd-Pleaser: My kids devour these crispy bites, and adults always ask for the recipe—seriously, there are never leftovers.
- Next-Level Flavor: The crispy salmon paired with creamy, spicy Bang Bang sauce is the kind of flavor combo that makes you do a little happy dance after the first bite.
Honestly, what sets this recipe apart is the double coating for extra crunch, and the homemade Bang Bang sauce that’s creamy with just the right amount of heat and sweetness. I blend the sauce at home so I can tweak the spice level (sometimes I sneak in an extra squirt of sriracha for myself). The salmon itself stays juicy inside thanks to a quick bake at high heat—no dry fish here!
It’s not just another seafood dinner; it’s a comfort food classic reimagined for anyone who wants big flavor without loads of oil or tricky steps. You’ll feel good serving these Bang Bang Salmon Bites to your family—and even better eating them yourself. Whether you’re a kitchen newbie or a seasoned cook, this is one of those recipes that just works every single time. I promise, it’ll become your go-to for when you want something special but need it fast.
Ingredients Needed
This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients to deliver that signature crispy texture and bold, zesty flavor—no fuss, no fancy stuff. Most of these are pantry staples, and you can easily swap things around if you need to.
- For the Salmon Bites:
- 1 pound (450g) skinless salmon fillets, cut into 1-inch cubes (fresh or previously frozen and thawed)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (or regular paprika if you prefer)
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 cup (60g) all-purpose flour (use gluten-free blend if needed)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup (60g) panko breadcrumbs (adds crunch—use gluten-free if you wish)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil (for drizzling or spraying)
- For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1/3 cup (80g) mayonnaise (I love using avocado oil mayo for a lighter taste)
- 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce (I recommend Mae Ploy or Thai Kitchen brands)
- 1 tablespoon sriracha (add more or less for your preferred heat level)
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (for a touch of sweetness)
- Juice of 1/2 lime (about 1 tablespoon)
Ingredient tips & swaps:
- Choose center-cut salmon fillets for more even pieces. Wild-caught or farmed both work—just make sure it’s fresh.
- For a gluten-free version, swap the flour and panko for your favorite gluten-free alternatives. I’ve used almond flour and crushed rice crackers with great results.
- If you’re dairy-free, double-check your mayo and sweet chili sauce labels.
- Want it extra spicy? Add a dash of cayenne or extra sriracha to the Bang Bang sauce.
- No salmon? This works well with cubed white fish or even tofu for a veggie spin.
If you want to bulk up the meal, toss in some broccoli florets or baby potatoes to roast alongside the salmon. I do this often when I want a one-pan dinner (and fewer dishes—always a win!).
Equipment Needed
You don’t need a chef’s kitchen for these Bang Bang Salmon Bites—just a few basic tools will do the trick. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Baking sheet: A large rimmed sheet pan is ideal. If you have a nonstick or ceramic one, even better for easy cleanup.
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat: This keeps the salmon from sticking and helps with even browning.
- Mixing bowls: At least two—one for coating the salmon, another for mixing the sauce.
- Whisk or fork: For beating eggs and blending the sauce.
- Tongs or a slotted spoon: Makes flipping and serving the salmon bites easier (especially when they’re hot and crispy).
- Measuring cups and spoons: For accuracy—eyeballing can work, but precise measurements make this recipe shine.
- Optional: Air fryer—if you want to try an extra-quick, super-crispy version. Just adjust cooking times as needed.
If you don’t have parchment, a light oil spray on the baking sheet works too (though parchment makes cleanup a breeze—trust me, I learned this the hard way). For budget-friendly gear, I love the basic baking sheets from Nordic Ware and silicone mats from Amazon. Keeping your tools clean is simple—just soak the bowls in warm, soapy water right after use to avoid stubborn sauce stains.
Preparation Method
- Preheat and Prepare:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- If using an air fryer, set it to 400°F (200°C).
- Cut and Season Salmon:
- Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Cut into 1-inch (2.5cm) cubes for even cooking.
- In a bowl, toss the salmon cubes with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper so each piece is well coated.
- Tip: Drying the salmon helps the coating stick and gives a crispier finish.
- Set Up Breading Stations:
- Place flour in one shallow bowl, beaten eggs in another, and panko breadcrumbs in a third.
- Line up bowls in order: flour, eggs, panko.
- Bread the Salmon:
- Working in batches, coat each salmon cube in flour (shake off excess), dip into egg, then roll in panko.
- Set each coated piece on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between them.
- Warning: Don’t overcrowd the sheet or the salmon won’t crisp up!
- Drizzle or Spray with Oil:
- Lightly drizzle or spray the salmon bites with olive oil or avocado oil. This helps them get golden and crispy.
- Bake (or Air Fry):
- Bake in preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through. Salmon should be crisp outside, opaque and just cooked in the center.
- For air fryer: Arrange in a single layer and cook 8-10 minutes, shaking once.
- Sensory cue: The salmon should feel firm and springy, not mushy.
- Make the Bang Bang Sauce:
- While the salmon bakes, whisk together mayo, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and lime juice in a bowl until smooth and creamy.
- Taste and adjust heat or sweetness as needed.
- Toss or Drizzle:
- Once salmon bites are done, let them cool for 1-2 minutes. Either toss gently with the Bang Bang sauce in a large bowl or drizzle the sauce over the bites on a platter.
- Note: Tossing gives full coverage, drizzling keeps them extra crispy underneath.
- Serve:
- Garnish with sliced green onions, sesame seeds, or extra lime wedges if you like.
- Enjoy hot for the crispiest bites!
Troubleshooting tips: If your salmon isn’t crisping, make sure it’s not crowded. If it’s overcooked, check your oven temp with a thermometer—sometimes ovens run hot! For easier cleanup, soak your bowls and tray right after dinner.
Cooking Tips & Techniques
Over the years, I’ve learned a few tricks to make Bang Bang Salmon Bites come out perfect every time. Here’s what I’ve picked up (sometimes the hard way!):
- Get the Salmon Dry: Moisture is the enemy of crispness, so always pat the fish dry before seasoning or breading.
- Double Dredge for Extra Crunch: If you want a seriously crispy coating, dip the salmon back in egg and panko for a second layer. This is my secret when I want that “fried” crunch without the fryer.
- Don’t Crowd the Pan: Spread the salmon bites out so hot air can circulate. If you pile them up, they’ll steam instead of bake—been there, done that, ended up with soggy fish.
- Watch the Timing: Salmon cooks quickly! Keep an eye on the oven during the last few minutes. Overcooked salmon gets dry and a bit chalky, so aim for just-cooked and still a little glossy in the center.
- Make Ahead Bang Bang Sauce: The sauce can be made up to 5 days ahead—store in a jar in the fridge. This makes weeknight dinners even faster.
- Multitasking: While the salmon bakes, prep your side dishes or salad. It’s a great way to get dinner on the table without a rush at the end.
- Consistency is Key: Cut your salmon pieces as evenly as possible so they cook at the same rate. If you have some tiny cubes and some big ones, you’ll get a mix of overcooked and undercooked bites.
And if you make a mistake (like I once did and forgot to spray the salmon with oil), don’t stress. Just dip those bites in extra Bang Bang sauce—honestly, it covers a multitude of sins!
Variations & Adaptations
There are so many ways to switch up these Bang Bang Salmon Bites to fit your mood, dietary needs, or whatever’s in your fridge. Here are some of my favorites:
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour and panko (or try crushed gluten-free crackers). I’ve done this for friends with celiac, and nobody could tell the difference.
- Low-Carb/Keto: Swap out the flour and panko for almond flour and crushed pork rinds. The bites come out super crispy and totally low-carb.
- Spicy Cajun Style: Add a teaspoon of Cajun seasoning to the coating and a few dashes of hot sauce to the Bang Bang sauce for a Southern twist.
- Vegetarian: Substitute firm tofu cubes for the salmon. Press and dry well, then follow the same breading and baking method. The tofu soaks up the sauce beautifully!
- Air Fryer Adaptation: For an even crispier finish, use your air fryer—just reduce the time a bit (about 8-10 minutes at 400°F/200°C).
- Seasonal Add-Ins: In summer, toss in some fresh corn kernels or diced zucchini on the pan. In winter, roasted sweet potato cubes are a perfect match.
My personal favorite? Sometimes I add a tablespoon of grated parmesan to the panko for a savory, cheesy crunch. Seriously—it’s a tiny upgrade that makes a big difference.
Serving & Storage Suggestions
These Bang Bang Salmon Bites are best served hot and crispy, straight from the oven. Here are my favorite ways to enjoy and store them:
- How to Serve:
- Serve as a main dish with steamed rice, quinoa, or a crunchy slaw. They’re also amazing over a fresh green salad with extra Bang Bang sauce drizzled on top.
- For parties, pile them onto a platter and stick toothpicks in each bite—they’ll be gone in minutes.
- Garnish with sliced scallions, sesame seeds, and extra lime wedges for a pop of color and zing.
- Side Suggestions:
- Pair with jasmine rice, coconut cauliflower rice, or oven-roasted veggies.
- Try with an icy-cold cucumber salad or a crisp glass of sauvignon blanc (if you’re treating yourself!).
- Storage & Reheating:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- To reheat, bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5-8 minutes or air fry for a few minutes until hot and crispy again. Microwaving works in a pinch, but the coating won’t stay as crisp.
- Bang Bang sauce keeps in the fridge for up to a week—use it as a dip for veggies or as a sandwich spread!
- Freezing: You can freeze the salmon bites before saucing. Cool completely, freeze on a tray, then store in a zip bag for up to 1 month. Reheat from frozen at 375°F (190°C) until hot and crispy.
The flavor deepens a bit after a day, so leftovers make a great lunch (if you have any!).
Nutritional Information & Benefits
Here’s the quick nutrition snapshot for Bang Bang Salmon Bites (per serving, about 1/4 of the recipe):
- Calories: ~320
- Protein: 27g
- Carbs: 15g
- Fat: 17g
- Fiber: 1g
Health perks: Salmon is loaded with omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and vitamin D—great for your brain, heart, and mood. Baking instead of frying keeps things lighter, and the Bang Bang sauce can be tweaked to lower sugar or fat as you need. This recipe is naturally dairy-free, and with a couple of swaps, it’s easy to make gluten-free or low-carb.
Just a heads up: if you’re allergic to fish, this one’s not for you (but tofu works as a sub!). Always check sauce labels for allergens if you’re sensitive.
From a wellness perspective, recipes like this make healthy eating feel like a treat—not a sacrifice. I love knowing I’m feeding my family something delicious and nourishing at the same time.
Conclusion
Bang Bang Salmon Bites are one of those rare recipes that tick all the boxes: quick, crispy, loaded with flavor, and secretly good for you. Whether you’re cooking for kids, friends, or just yourself after a long day, this dish brings a little restaurant magic to your kitchen—no deep fryer or fancy chef skills required.
Feel free to make it your own: dial up the spice, try a new sauce twist, or serve it over your favorite grain. That’s the beauty of a recipe like this—it’s flexible, fun, and always satisfying. Honestly, I keep coming back to these salmon bites because they never disappoint (and cleanup is a breeze, which is half the battle).
If you try this recipe, let me know how it goes! Share your own twists in the comments, pin it for later, or tag me on social media—I love seeing your kitchen creations. Here’s to many more crispy, saucy dinners on your table!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen salmon for Bang Bang Salmon Bites?
Absolutely! Just thaw the salmon fully and pat it dry before cutting and breading. This helps the coating stick and keeps the bites crispy.
Is there a dairy-free option for the Bang Bang sauce?
Yes—just use a dairy-free or vegan mayo. Most sweet chili sauces are dairy-free, but always check the labels just in case.
What if I don’t have panko breadcrumbs?
No worries! You can use regular breadcrumbs, crushed crackers, or even cornflakes for the coating. Panko just makes them extra crispy.
Can I make Bang Bang Salmon Bites ahead of time?
You can prep and bread the salmon earlier in the day, then bake just before serving. The sauce can be made up to a week ahead and kept in the fridge.
How spicy is the Bang Bang sauce?
It’s got a mild kick, but you can adjust the heat by adding more or less sriracha to taste. For a family-friendly version, start with less and serve extra sauce on the side for spice lovers.
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Bang Bang Salmon Bites
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
These Bang Bang Salmon Bites are crispy, juicy salmon cubes baked to perfection and tossed in a spicy-sweet, creamy Bang Bang sauce. Ready in just 30 minutes, they’re a healthier, easy alternative to takeout and perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining.
Ingredients
- 1 pound skinless salmon fillets, cut into 1-inch cubes (fresh or previously frozen and thawed)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (or regular paprika)
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (use gluten-free blend if needed)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if needed)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil (for drizzling or spraying)
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise (avocado oil mayo recommended for lighter taste)
- 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- Juice of 1/2 lime (about 1 tablespoon)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels and cut into 1-inch cubes.
- In a bowl, toss the salmon cubes with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until well coated.
- Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs.
- Coat each salmon cube in flour (shake off excess), dip into egg, then roll in panko. Place coated pieces on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between them.
- Lightly drizzle or spray the salmon bites with olive oil or avocado oil.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the salmon is crisp outside and just cooked through. (For air fryer: cook at 400°F for 8-10 minutes, shaking once.)
- While the salmon bakes, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and lime juice until smooth and creamy. Adjust heat or sweetness to taste.
- Let salmon bites cool for 1-2 minutes. Toss gently with Bang Bang sauce in a large bowl or drizzle sauce over the bites on a platter.
- Garnish with sliced green onions, sesame seeds, or extra lime wedges if desired. Serve hot.
Notes
For extra crunch, double-dredge the salmon by dipping back in egg and panko. Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet for best crispiness. The Bang Bang sauce can be made up to 5 days ahead. For gluten-free, use GF flour and panko. For a vegetarian version, substitute firm tofu for salmon. Adjust sriracha for desired spice level.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: About 1/4 of the recipe (approximately 4 oz salmon per serving)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4
- Sodium: 600
- Fat: 17
- Saturated Fat: 2.5
- Carbohydrates: 15
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 27
Keywords: bang bang salmon, salmon bites, crispy salmon, baked salmon, easy dinner, weeknight meal, healthy salmon, spicy salmon, Asian salmon, seafood recipe
