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Crispy bang bang salmon bites coated in creamy sauce on white plate with lime wedges

Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites

Tender salmon cubes with crispy edges, coated in an irresistible creamy and spicy bang bang sauce. Ready in 20 minutes with your choice of pan-searing, baking, or air-frying.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 portions
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Asian
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 lbs salmon fillets skin removed, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 3 tablespoons Thai sweet chili sauce
  • 2 tablespoons sriracha
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
  • fresh parsley, green onions, or sesame seeds for garnish
  • lime wedges for serving

Equipment

  • Large skillet or baking sheet or air fryer
  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Paper towels

Method
 

  1. Pat the salmon cubes thoroughly dry using paper towels to remove all surface moisture. Toss the dried salmon with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if using. Ensure each piece is evenly coated with the seasoning mixture.
  2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and fresh lime juice until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust sweetness or spice level to your preference. Set the sauce aside.
  3. Choose your cooking method. For pan-searing: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat with a touch of oil and cook salmon cubes for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. For baking: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C), arrange salmon on a parchment-lined baking sheet, and bake for 10-12 minutes. For air-frying: Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. Cook until salmon reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.
  4. Transfer the cooked salmon bites to a large bowl. Drizzle the bang bang sauce over them and gently toss until every piece is evenly coated. Alternatively, serve the sauce on the side for dipping.
  5. Transfer to a serving plate and sprinkle with chopped parsley, green onions, or sesame seeds. Serve immediately with lime wedges alongside. Pair with rice, salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Notes

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best texture, keep sauce separate. Reheat in air fryer at 375°F for 5-7 minutes or in a skillet over medium heat. Substitutions: Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter option. Adjust sriracha amount based on heat preference. Look for gluten-free Thai sweet chili sauce if needed.