Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and coated in a creamy, slightly spicy sauce—Bang Bang Salmon Bites are the appetizer you never knew you needed. They’re bold, flavorful, and come together in less than 30 minutes, making them perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute get-togethers. Imagine the crunch of perfectly seared salmon cubes, balanced with a velvety sauce that hits just the right balance of sweet and heat.
The fun part? These bites are just as addictive as the ever-popular bang bang shrimp, yet they feel a little fancier thanks to the salmon upgrade. I first tried a version of this dish at a small family gathering, and before I knew it, the entire platter was gone in minutes—no leftovers in sight! That’s when I knew this recipe was a keeper.
What makes these bites so special is their versatility. Kids love them, adults devour them, and they can be served as an appetizer, snack, or even a light main dish. If you’ve enjoyed other crowd-pleasers like crispy chicken katsu or buffalo chicken Alfredo penne on the blog, this recipe deserves a spot at the top of your must-try list.
Simple, satisfying, and downright delicious, Bang Bang Salmon Bites are proof that the best appetizers don’t need to be complicated. Let’s dive in and see why this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.
Want more lunch inspiration? Check out our Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps and Mushroom Sandwich Melts for another irresistible treat!
What is Bang Bang Salmon Bites?
So, what’s with the name? Bang Bang Salmon Bites might sound like a dance move, but trust me—it’s all about flavor fireworks! The “bang bang” comes from the iconic sauce: creamy mayo mixed with sweet chili sauce and a little kick of sriracha. It’s the kind of sauce that makes you want to lick the spoon.
Why bites? Because small, tender cubes of salmon make the perfect one-bite snack—you won’t even need a knife and fork. Ever heard the saying, the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach? Well, these salmon bites prove it true for just about everyone.
Ready to make your taste buds happy? Roll up your sleeves and give these tasty little bites a try—you won’t regret it!
Why You’ll Love This Bang Bang Salmon Bites Recipe
There are plenty of appetizers out there, but here’s why Bang Bang Salmon Bites stand out:
- Big flavor, little effort – These bites pack restaurant-quality taste without hours in the kitchen. That creamy, spicy sauce transforms simple salmon into a flavor bomb.
- Budget-friendly upgrade – Making this dish at home saves you money compared to ordering takeout. A single fillet of salmon turns into a platter full of shareable bites.
- Toppings that wow – A drizzle of sauce, a sprinkle of sesame seeds, and maybe some fresh green onions turn these bites into a picture-perfect appetizer.
If you’ve tried something like garlic knot chicken Alfredo ring before, think of this as its seafood cousin—equally fun, equally indulgent, and perfect for sharing. Grab your ingredients and get ready for a dish everyone will rave about.
How to Make Bang Bang Salmon Bites
Quick Overview
Making Bang Bang Salmon Bites is surprisingly easy. You’ll cube your salmon, season it, give it a quick cook for that golden crust, and toss it with the signature bang bang sauce. In just 25 minutes, you’ll have a plate of crispy, saucy bites that disappear faster than you can serve them.
Key Ingredients for Bang Bang Salmon Bites
- 1 lb fresh salmon fillet, skin removed and cut into bite-sized cubes
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 3 tbsp sweet chili sauce
- 1–2 tsp sriracha (adjust for spice level)
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp sesame oil or neutral oil for frying
- Green onions, sliced, for garnish
- Sesame seeds, for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the salmon – Pat the salmon cubes dry with a paper towel. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Set up breading station – Place flour in one bowl, beaten eggs in another, and panko breadcrumbs in a third.
- Coat the salmon – Dredge each cube in flour, dip in egg, then roll in panko until fully coated.
- Cook the salmon – Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Fry salmon cubes in batches, about 2–3 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Place on a paper towel–lined plate to drain.
- Make the sauce – In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha until smooth.
- Combine and serve – Toss the crispy salmon cubes in the bang bang sauce until evenly coated. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions. Serve immediately.
What to Serve Bang Bang Salmon Bites With
These bites are versatile and pair well with many sides. Try serving them with:
- Steamed jasmine rice for a quick meal
- Fresh cucumber salad for a cool contrast
- Garlic noodles for a heartier plate
- Sparkling lemonade or iced tea to balance the spice
Whether it’s a party appetizer or a family dinner, these pairings make the dish even more satisfying.
Top Tips for Perfecting Bang Bang Salmon Bites
- Use fresh salmon – Frozen works too, but fresh fillets give the best texture.
- Adjust the spice – More sriracha = more kick. Keep it mild or fiery to suit your taste.
- Crisp factor – For extra crunch, double-coat the salmon in panko.
- Sauce on the side – If serving for a party, keep the sauce separate for dipping to avoid sogginess.
- Swap proteins – Not a salmon fan? This recipe works with shrimp, chicken, or even cauliflower.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Leftovers are rare with Bang Bang Salmon Bites, but here’s how to keep them fresh:
- Refrigeration – Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Freezing – Freeze uncooked, breaded salmon cubes for up to 2 months. Cook straight from frozen for convenience.
- Reheating – Warm in the oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes to bring back the crispiness. Avoid microwaving to prevent soggy bites.
FAQs About Bang Bang Salmon Bites
Q: Can I make Bang Bang Salmon Bites in an air fryer?
Yes! Cook at 400°F for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway for even crispiness.
Q: Is the bang bang sauce very spicy?
Not at all—it’s creamy with a hint of heat. You can adjust spice levels by adding more or less sriracha.
Q: Can I prepare these bites ahead of time?
Yes! Bread the salmon cubes in advance and refrigerate for up to 12 hours before cooking.
Conclusion
Bang Bang Salmon Bites are the ultimate appetizer—crispy, saucy, and packed with bold flavor in every bite. They’re quick to prepare, budget-friendly, and guaranteed to be the first thing gone at any gathering. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, these little bites of joy will win over every taste bud.
So grab your salmon, whip up that addictive bang bang sauce, and bring a little flavor explosion to your table tonight. Your next favorite appetizer is just one recipe away!