These Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon Bites are a total game-changer! I’m obsessed with how crispy the salmon gets in the air fryer, and the bang bang sauce… oh my goodness, it’s the perfect combination of sweet, spicy, and creamy. These little bites are incredibly easy to make and are perfect as an appetizer, snack, or even a light meal. They’re always a huge hit whenever I make them, and I have a feeling you’re going to love them just as much as I do!

Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon Bites Recipe

Crispy and Delicious: The air fryer creates perfectly crispy salmon bites without the need for deep frying.
Flavor Explosion: The bang bang sauce is an addictive combination of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.
Quick and Easy: These salmon bites are ready in under 15 minutes, making them a perfect weeknight snack or appetizer.
Healthy-ish: Salmon is a great source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, and using the air fryer cuts down on added fat.

Ingredients for Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon Bites Recipe

Here’s what you’ll need to make these addictive Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon Bites. I’ve divided them up for clarity, but the full list with measurements is in the recipe card directly below.

Salmon

Salmon, skin removed, cut into 1-inch bites (Fish)
Extra virgin olive oil (Oil)

Seasoning

Paprika (Spice)
Garlic powder (Spice)
Kosher salt (Seasoning)
Black pepper (Spice)

Bang Bang Sauce

Mayonnaise (Condiment)
Thai sweet chili sauce (Condiment)
Sriracha (Condiment)
Honey (Sweetener)

Garnish

Chives (Herb)

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Variations

I love this recipe as is, but here are a few variations you might want to try:

Adjust the Spice Level: Add more or less Sriracha to control the heat.
Make it Gluten-Free: Ensure all your ingredients, especially the sauces, are certified gluten-free.
Add Sesame Seeds: Sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds on top for added texture and flavor.
Use a Different Fish: Try this recipe with cod, shrimp, or even chicken breast bites.

How to Make Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon Bites Recipe

Let me show you how easy it is to make these amazing Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon Bites!

Make Bang Bang Sauce

In a small bowl, I combine the mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey. I mix it all up until it’s well combined, then set it aside.

Prepare Salmon

I preheat my air fryer to 390°F (200°C).
In a large bowl, I combine the olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Then, I add the salmon bites and toss everything until the salmon is evenly coated.

Air Fry

I place the salmon bites in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
I cook them for 4-5 minutes per side, or until the salmon reaches an internal temperature of 140-145°F.

Toss with Sauce

I transfer the cooked salmon to a plate and toss it with the bang bang sauce until it’s nicely coated.

Garnish and Serve

Finally, I garnish the salmon bites with chopped chives and serve them immediately.

Tips and Tricks

Here are a few tips that I’ve found helpful when making these Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon Bites:

Don’t Overcrowd the Air Fryer: Make sure the salmon bites are in a single layer for even cooking and crispiness. Work in batches if needed.
Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure the salmon is cooked to a safe temperature, use a meat thermometer.
Adjust Cooking Time: Cooking time may vary depending on your air fryer and the size of your salmon bites.

How to Serve

These Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon Bites are incredibly versatile. Here are a few serving suggestions:

Appetizer: Serve them as a crowd-pleasing appetizer at your next party or gathering.
Snack: Enjoy them as a quick and satisfying snack.
Light Meal: Serve them over rice, salad, or noodles for a light and healthy meal.
Tacos: Stuff them into tortillas with your favorite toppings for a fun and flavorful twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

While these salmon bites are best served immediately, you can prepare the bang bang sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Cooked salmon can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the air fryer or a pan.

FAQs

Here are some answers to frequently asked questions about this recipe:

Can I use skin-on salmon?
- While it is possible, I recommend using skinless salmon for this recipe so the seasoning and sauce can better adhere to the salmon.
Can I bake these in the oven instead of using an air fryer?
- Yes, you can bake them in the oven at 400°F (205°C) for about 10-12 minutes, or until cooked through.
Is the bang bang sauce very spicy?
- The spice level can be adjusted to your preference. As written, it has a mild to medium kick. Add more or less Sriracha to adjust the heat.

Enjoy these crispy, flavorful, and easy-to-make Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon Bites! I hope you love them as much as I do.