Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites Recipe

If you love crispy, flavorful seafood with a hint of spice and a touch of sweetness, then Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites are just the dish for you! These bite-sized delights are coated in a crunchy panko crust, fried or baked to perfection, and then drizzled with a creamy, spicy-sweet bang bang sauce that will leave your taste buds craving more. Whether you’re looking for a unique appetizer, a fun dinner option, or a game-day snack, these salmon bites are sure to be a hit.

In this article, we’ll cover everything from selecting the best salmon to making the crispiest coating and the ultimate bang bang sauce. Follow along for a step-by-step guide, pro tips, variations, and serving suggestions!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Crispy and Crunchy – The panko breadcrumb coating gives these salmon bites the perfect crunch.

Flavor Explosion – The bang bang sauce is a combination of creamy, spicy, and slightly sweet flavors.
Quick & Easy – This dish comes together in under 30 minutes with simple ingredients.
Versatile – Bake or fry them, serve as an appetizer, main dish, or taco filling.

Healthy Option Available – Easily bake or air fry for a lighter version.

Ingredients for Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites

For the Salmon Bites:

1 lb salmon fillet (skinless, cut into 1-inch cubes)
1 cup all-purpose flour

2 large eggs, beaten
1 ½ cups panko breadcrumbs (for extra crispiness)
½ cup cornstarch (for extra crunch)

1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon paprika

½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)

1 ½ cups vegetable oil (for frying, if frying)

For the Bang Bang Sauce:

½ cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce

1 tablespoon Sriracha sauce (adjust for spice level)
1 teaspoon honey (optional, for added sweetness)
1 teaspoon rice vinegar (for a slight tang)

For Garnish (Optional):

Chopped fresh parsley or green onions
Toasted sesame seeds
Extra bang bang sauce for dipping

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Salmon

Choose fresh salmon – Look for bright, firm salmon with no strong fishy odor.
Remove skin (if needed) – If your fillet has skin, use a sharp knife to carefully remove it.
Cut into bite-sized cubes – Around 1-inch pieces work best to ensure even cooking.

Pat dry with a paper towel – This helps the coating stick better.

Step 2: Set Up the Coating Station

Bowl 1: Flour Mix
- In a shallow dish, mix flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.

Bowl 2: Egg Wash
- In another bowl, beat 2 large eggs.
Bowl 3: Panko Breadcrumbs
- In a separate dish, place the panko breadcrumbs.

Step 3: Coat the Salmon Bites

Dredge the salmon pieces in the seasoned flour mixture.
Dip into the beaten eggs, making sure each piece is fully coated.

Roll in panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure they stick.
Place coated salmon on a plate and repeat with the remaining pieces.

Cooking Methods: Fry, Bake, or Air Fry

Option 1: Deep Frying (Best for Crispiness)

Heat oil in a deep pan or skillet to 350°F (175°C).

Carefully add salmon bites in small batches, frying for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown.
Remove and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
Repeat until all pieces are fried.

Option 2: Baking (Healthier Alternative)

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Place coated salmon bites on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Spray lightly with cooking oil (for better crispiness).

Bake for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown.

Option 3: Air Frying (Crispy & Guilt-Free)

Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
Place salmon bites in a single layer in the air fryer basket.

Lightly spray with oil.
Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.

Make the Bang Bang Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, honey, and rice vinegar.

Taste and adjust spice levels if needed.
Refrigerate until ready to serve.

Serving Suggestions

Drizzle the bang bang sauce over the crispy salmon bites.

Serve as an appetizer with toothpicks for easy dipping.
Pair with rice and veggies for a balanced meal.
Use in tacos with cabbage slaw for a delicious twist.

Add to a salad for a crispy protein boost.

Tips for Perfect Salmon Bites

✔ Use fresh salmon for the best texture and flavor.
✔ Pat the salmon dry to help the coating stick.
✔ Double dip in panko for extra crispiness.
✔ Don’t overcrowd the pan when frying to ensure even cooking.
✔ Adjust spice level by adding more or less Sriracha.
✔ For extra crunch, chill the coated salmon bites for 10 minutes before frying.

Recipe Variations

🌱 Make it gluten-free – Use gluten-free panko and flour.
🔥 Extra spicy – Add more cayenne or drizzle with extra hot sauce.
🍋 Lemon twist – Add lemon zest to the flour mixture for a citrusy flavor.
🌿 Herb-infused – Mix dried herbs into the panko coating for extra flavor.
🥥 Coconut crunch – Replace half of the panko with shredded coconut.

Storing & Reheating

Storage:

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Freeze uncooked coated salmon bites for up to 2 months.

Reheating:

Oven/Air Fryer: Reheat at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes.

Microwave: Not recommended as it softens the crispy coating.

Final Thoughts

Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites are the ultimate seafood treat—crunchy, juicy, and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing a family dinner, or just craving something delicious, this recipe is a guaranteed winner.

Try it out, customize it to your liking, and enjoy every crispy, spicy, and sweet bite! 😋

Let us know—how did your salmon bites turn out? Drop your feedback in the comments! 🐟🔥

Pairing Ideas: What to Serve with Bang Bang Salmon Bites

These crispy salmon bites are incredibly versatile, and they pair well with a variety of side dishes and beverages. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, a main course, or part of a larger meal, here are some great pairing ideas:

Side Dishes

Coconut Rice – The subtle sweetness of coconut rice balances the spice of the bang bang sauce.

Garlic Butter Noodles – Simple but flavorful, these noodles add a savory depth to the meal.
Asian Slaw – A refreshing mix of cabbage, carrots, and a tangy sesame dressing pairs perfectly.
Roasted Vegetables – Try roasted Brussels sprouts, asparagus, or zucchini for a healthy side.

Sweet Potato Fries – The natural sweetness of sweet potatoes contrasts nicely with the spicy sauce.
Quinoa Salad – A light and nutritious option with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a lemon vinaigrette.

Dipping Sauces (Beyond Bang Bang)

If you love variety, serve your crispy salmon bites with additional dipping sauces:

Honey Mustard – A sweet and tangy contrast.
Soy Ginger Sauce – A savory umami twist.
Sriracha Aioli – Extra heat for spice lovers.

Mango Salsa – A fresh and fruity pairing.

Beverage Pairings

White Wine – A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay complements the salmon’s flavors.
Sparkling Water with Lime – A refreshing non-alcoholic option.

Iced Green Tea – Mild and refreshing, with a slight earthiness.
Margarita or Mojito – A fun cocktail choice that balances the spice.

Fun Ways to Use Bang Bang Salmon Bites

1. Bang Bang Salmon Tacos

Warm up some soft corn or flour tortillas.

Add shredded lettuce or cabbage slaw.
Top with crispy salmon bites and drizzle with bang bang sauce.
Garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges.

2. Bang Bang Salmon Sushi Bowls

Start with a base of sushi rice or quinoa.
Add sliced cucumbers, shredded carrots, and avocado.
Place the crispy salmon bites on top.

Drizzle with bang bang sauce and sprinkle with sesame seeds.

3. Bang Bang Salmon Wrap

Use a large flour tortilla.
Spread a thin layer of bang bang sauce.

Add the crispy salmon bites, shredded lettuce, and diced tomatoes.
Roll it up and slice in half for an easy, on-the-go meal.

4. Bang Bang Salmon Sliders

Use mini brioche buns or Hawaiian rolls.

Spread a layer of bang bang sauce on each bun.
Add a piece of crispy salmon, lettuce, and a pickle slice.
Serve as party sliders or appetizers.

5. Bang Bang Salmon Salad

Toss mixed greens with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and shredded carrots.
Add crispy salmon bites on top.
Drizzle with bang bang sauce or a light vinaigrette.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes! Just make sure to thaw it completely before cutting and coating. Patting it dry is essential to help the breading stick.

2. How do I make it extra crispy?

For ultimate crispiness:

Use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs.

Double-coat the salmon in egg and panko.
Let the coated salmon chill for 10-15 minutes before frying.
Fry at 350°F (175°C) for the perfect golden crust.

3. Can I bake these instead of frying?

Absolutely! Baking at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes gives a crispy texture with less oil.

4. What is Bang Bang Sauce made of?

Bang bang sauce is a creamy, spicy, and slightly sweet sauce made from:

Mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)

Sweet chili sauce
Sriracha or hot sauce
Honey or sugar (optional for extra sweetness)

Rice vinegar or lemon juice (for a slight tang)

5. How do I store leftovers?

Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freeze uncooked coated salmon bites for up to 2 months.

Reheat in an air fryer or oven at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes.

6. Can I make this dairy-free or gluten-free?

Yes!

Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour and gluten-free panko.

Dairy-Free: The recipe is naturally dairy-free as long as your mayo is dairy-free.

7. What’s the best way to reheat them?

Air Fryer: The best way! 375°F for 5-7 minutes.
Oven: 375°F for 5-7 minutes on a baking sheet.

Microwave: Not recommended (it softens the crispy coating).

Final Thoughts: A Must-Try Recipe!

Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites are the perfect combination of crunchy, spicy, and creamy, making them an irresistible treat for seafood lovers. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, main dish, or snack, they are sure to impress with their bold flavors and crispy texture.

Why You Should Try This Recipe:

✅ Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes
✅ Extra Crispy – Thanks to panko and cornstarch
✅ Perfectly Balanced – The heat from Sriracha, sweetness from chili sauce, and creamy mayo
✅ Versatile – Can be served in tacos, wraps, salads, sushi bowls, or sliders
✅ Healthier Options – Can be baked or air-fried instead of deep-fried

Now It’s Your Turn!

Have you tried this recipe? Let us know how it turned out! Share your photos and tag us on social media or drop a comment with your favorite way to enjoy these salmon bites. Happy cooking! 🍽️🔥🐟