Golden-crusted on the outside and irresistibly tender on the inside, these Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites are the flavor-packed appetizer your kitchen has been missing. Each bite-sized piece of salmon is pan-seared to crispy perfection, then generously drizzled with a creamy, spicy bang bang sauce that brings just the right touch of heat. Garnished with fresh parsley for a bright finish, this dish is an easy showstopper.

Perfect for game days, dinner parties, or a satisfying weekday dinner, these salmon bites strike the perfect balance between indulgence and simplicity. Whether you serve them as an appetizer or pair them with rice or greens for a full meal, they’re guaranteed to disappear fast.

What Kind of Salmon Should I Use?

For best results, choose fresh, skinless salmon fillets with firm texture. Wild-caught salmon is ideal for flavor, but farm-raised works well too. Cut the fillets into even cubes to ensure uniform cooking. Avoid using pre-seasoned or frozen fillets, as they may not sear properly.

Ingredients for the Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites

Salmon Fillets
The star of the show. Go for fresh, skinless fillets and cube them into bite-sized pieces.

Paprika & Garlic Powder
These add smoky depth and a savory kick that balances the creaminess of the sauce.

Salt & Black Pepper
Essential seasoning to bring out the natural flavor of the salmon.

Olive Oil or Avocado Oil
Used for searing the salmon to golden perfection. Choose a high smoke point oil.

Mayonnaise
Forms the creamy base of the bang bang sauce.

Sweet Chili Sauce
Brings sweetness and a mild heat to the sauce.

Sriracha
For a bold, spicy punch. Adjust to your heat preference.

Honey (optional)
Adds a touch of sweetness that rounds out the heat in the sauce.

Fresh Parsley
Used as garnish to add color and a pop of freshness.

How To Make the Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites

Step 1: Prep the Salmon

Pat the salmon cubes dry with paper towels. This helps achieve a better sear. Season the cubes evenly with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.

Step 2: Make the Bang Bang Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and honey (if using). Adjust the heat level to taste, then set the sauce aside.

Step 3: Sear the Salmon

Heat olive or avocado oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the salmon cubes in a single layer. Sear for about 2-3 minutes per side until golden and crispy, and cooked through. Work in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding.

Step 4: Plate and Sauce

Transfer the crispy salmon bites to a serving plate. Drizzle generously with the bang bang sauce, or serve the sauce on the side for dipping.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately while hot and crispy.

Serving and Storing Your Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites

These salmon bites are best served fresh and hot straight out of the skillet. Pair them with steamed jasmine rice, a crisp cucumber salad, or toss them into a lettuce wrap for a lighter meal. They also shine as a party appetizer with toothpicks and extra sauce for dipping.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, use an oven or air fryer to preserve their crispy texture. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the coating soggy.

Frequently Asked Questions

How spicy are these salmon bites?

The spice level is customizable. The sriracha brings heat, so feel free to reduce it or leave it out if you prefer a milder flavor.

Can I make them in the air fryer?

Absolutely! Cook the seasoned salmon cubes in a preheated air fryer at 400°F for about 7-9 minutes, shaking halfway through.

What can I use instead of mayo?

You can substitute Greek yogurt or sour cream for a lighter sauce, though the flavor will be slightly tangier.

Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?

Yes! The bang bang sauce can be made up to 3 days ahead and stored in the fridge. Just give it a quick stir before serving.

What side dishes go well with this?

Try pairing with garlic noodles, coconut rice, or a simple arugula salad for a complete meal.

Can I freeze the salmon bites?

Freezing isn’t ideal for this dish, as the texture of the coating and sauce may not hold up well after thawing.

Want More Appetizer Ideas with Bold Flavor?

If these Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites hit the spot, you’ll love exploring these deliciously fun bites:

Looking for more daily inspiration? Browse my Pinterest boards packed with easy, crave-worthy dishes: Life with Nina on Pinterest

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

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go bold with the sriracha or tone it down? Did you pair it with rice or go low-carb with lettuce wraps?

I love hearing your spins on these recipes. Drop your tips, tricks, or questions below—let’s help each other make flavor-forward meals easy and fun.

Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites

Author: Nina Johnson
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 8 minutes
Total Time: 18 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Appetizer
Method: Pan-Seared
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired

Print Recipe

Description

These Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites are juicy, golden, and packed with flavor. Pan-seared to perfection and topped with a creamy, spicy bang bang sauce, they’re perfect as a crowd-pleasing appetizer or a main dish over rice or salad.

Instructions

1. Pat the salmon cubes dry using paper towels. This step helps them sear better.
Season the cubes with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and honey (if using).
Set aside. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
Add salmon cubes in a single layer.
Sear salmon for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden and cooked through.
Work in batches if needed.
Remove salmon and place on a plate.
Drizzle with bang bang sauce or serve on the side.
Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.