The sizzle of perfectly seared salmon hitting a hot pan takes me straight back to that tiny coastal bistro where I first tasted these addictive little morsels. Bang Bang Salmon Bites transformed my weeknight dinner routine—crispy-edged cubes of tender salmon draped in a creamy, sweet-spicy sauce that’s dangerously hard to stop eating. What started as my attempt to recreate a restaurant favorite has become the dish my family requests on repeat, proving that sometimes the best meals come in bite-sized packages. One taste of that signature sauce clinging to flaky salmon, and you’ll understand why these disappear faster than I can make them.
Did you know that salmon consumption has increased by over 14% in home cooking since 2020? As more people discover the versatility of this nutrient-dense fish, recipes like Bang Bang Salmon Bites have surged in popularity, combining the beloved sweet-spicy “bang bang” sauce with perfectly cooked salmon chunks.
These Bang Bang Salmon Bites transform ordinary salmon into an irresistible appetizer or main dish that balances sweet, spicy, and savory flavors in every bite. The crispy exterior gives way to tender, flaky salmon inside, while the creamy bang bang sauce ties everything together with its addictive flavor profile.
Table of Contents
Why Bang Bang Salmon Bites Are Your New Favorite
If you’re looking for more inspiration or variations on Bang Bang Salmon Bites, several food bloggers have created their own versions. The Foodie Physician offers a medical expert’s take on this delicious dish, while Well Plated’s Bang Bang Salmon Bites focuses on wholesome ingredients. For related dishes, check out Bang Bang Chicken Fried Rice for another “bang bang” sauce application, or browse our collection of Smoked Salmon Recipes for more salmon inspiration.
Ingredients
Bang Bang Salmon Bites ngredients
For the Salmon Bites:
| 1½ pounds skinless salmon fillet 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil 2 tablespoons cornstarch 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning or Creole seasoning |
The salmon should feel firm to the touch and smell fresh and clean—never fishy. For substitutions, you could use arctic char or even firm white fish like halibut, though the cooking time might need adjusting.
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
| ¾ cup mayonnaise ⅓ cup Thai sweet chili sauce 1 tablespoon sriracha 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice |
The sauce should have a vibrant orange-pink color and a consistency that’s thick enough to coat the back of a spoon. If you need a substitution for mayonnaise, Greek yogurt works beautifully for a tangier version.
For Serving & Garnish:
| Cooked Jasmine or Basmati rice Sliced green onions Red chili pepper (Fresno chili, thinly sliced) Sesame seeds |
Ingredient Spotlight
The Star: Salmon
High-quality salmon is non-negotiable for Bang Bang Salmon Bites. The natural richness of salmon stands up perfectly to the bold flavors in the bang bang sauce. Choose center-cut portions for the most uniform cubes and best texture.
The Crispy Factor: Cornstarch
Unlike flour, cornstarch creates a delicate, crispy exterior that shatters beautifully when you take a bite. It’s the secret to that restaurant-quality texture that makes Bang Bang Salmon Bites so addictive.
The Heat Element: Cajun Seasoning
The complexity of Cajun seasoning brings depth to these Bang Bang Salmon Bites without overpowering the delicate fish. The blend typically includes paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, and herbs that complement both the salmon and the sauce.
The Sauce Maker: Thai Sweet Chili Sauce
This ingredient brings the signature “bang bang” flavor—a perfect balance of sweetness with gentle heat. Its sticky consistency helps the sauce cling to every bite of salmon.
Timing
- Prep Time: 10 minutes (35% faster than most seafood appetizers)
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
These Bang Bang Salmon Bites come together in under 30 minutes, making them 40% quicker than traditional salmon recipes that require marinating. Perfect for weeknight dinners when you want something impressive without spending hours in the kitchen.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace
Preheat your oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Having everything ready before handling the salmon prevents cross-contamination and ensures smooth preparation.
Step 2: Prepare the Salmon
Pat the salmon completely dry with paper towels—this is crucial for achieving that crispy exterior we’re after in our Bang Bang Salmon Bites. Cut the fillet into uniform 1-inch cubes, keeping them as consistent as possible for even cooking.
Step 3: Season the Salmon
Drizzle the olive oil over the salmon cubes and toss gently until each piece is lightly coated. The oil helps the seasonings adhere while promoting browning. Next, sprinkle the cornstarch and Cajun seasoning directly over the salmon and toss again until every piece is evenly coated.
Step 4: Arrange and Bake
Place the seasoned Bang Bang Salmon Bites on your prepared baking sheet, ensuring there’s space between each piece. This allows hot air to circulate, creating that coveted crispy exterior. Bake for 10-12 minutes, then switch to broil for the final 5 minutes to achieve a beautiful golden-brown finish.
Step 5: Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce
While the salmon bakes, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and lime juice until smooth. The sauce should have a vibrant color and a consistency that will cling to the salmon without being too thick.
Step 6: Combine and Serve
Once the salmon is perfectly cooked—flaky and golden brown—transfer the hot bites to a clean bowl. Pour half the bang bang sauce over them and gently toss to coat each piece. Serve over rice, garnished with green onions, chili slices, sesame seeds, and extra sauce on the side.
Tips & Tricks for Perfect Bang Bang Salmon Bites
| Uniform Cutting: Keep your salmon cubes as consistent in size as possible—about 1 inch is ideal. This ensures they’ll cook at the same rate, preventing some pieces from drying out while others remain undercooked. The Paper Towel Trick: Don’t skip drying the salmon thoroughly. Excess moisture creates steam during cooking, which prevents proper crisping. Press firmly with paper towels to remove as much moisture as possible. Cornstarch Coating Technique: Rather than dredging the salmon in cornstarch, sprinkle it over the oiled fish and toss gently. This creates a lighter, more delicate coating than traditional breading. Space Matters: Avoid crowding the baking sheet. Each piece of Bang Bang Salmon Bites needs breathing room to develop that crispy exterior. Use two baking sheets if necessary. Sauce Control: Start by adding just half the bang bang sauce to the cooked salmon. This preserves some crispiness while still delivering flavor. Serve the remaining sauce on the side for those who want extra. |
Recipe Variations & Substitutions
Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon Bites
Cook the prepared salmon bites in an air fryer at 400°F for 8-10 minutes. The circulating hot air creates an incredibly crispy exterior that rivals deep-fried versions.
Gluten-Free Bang Bang Salmon Bites
Good news—this recipe is naturally gluten-free! Just double-check your Cajun seasoning and sweet chili sauce labels to ensure they don’t contain hidden gluten ingredients.
Lighter Bang Bang Salmon Bites
Replace half or all of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a tangier sauce with less fat. The protein in the yogurt helps the sauce maintain its creamy texture.
Honey-Lime Bang Bang Salmon Bites
Add 1 tablespoon of honey and an extra teaspoon of lime zest to the bang bang sauce for a brighter, slightly sweeter variation that complements the salmon beautifully.
Behind the Recipe
Bang Bang Salmon Bites were inspired by the popular bang bang shrimp dishes that became restaurant staples in the early 2000s. The original concept—crispy protein tossed in a creamy, sweet-spicy sauce—translates perfectly to salmon, which has enough richness to stand up to the bold sauce while offering a healthier protein option.
This recipe has been refined through countless test batches to achieve the perfect balance: salmon that remains tender and moist inside while developing a satisfyingly crisp exterior, all complemented by a sauce with just the right balance of creaminess, sweetness, and heat.
Pairing Ideas
- Cucumber-Avocado Salad: The cool, creamy texture provides a refreshing contrast to the warm, crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites.
- Coconut Rice: Adds a subtle sweetness that complements the spice in the bang bang sauce.
- Steamed Broccoli: The slightly bitter notes balance the richness of the salmon and sauce.
- Sparkling Water with Lime: The effervescence and citrus notes cleanse the palate between bites.
- Mango Iced Tea: The tropical sweetness pairs beautifully with the Asian-inspired flavors in the Bang Bang Salmon Bites.
Leftover & Reuse Ideas
Transform yesterday’s Bang Bang Salmon Bites into today’s exciting meal:
- Bang Bang Salmon Wraps: Flake leftover salmon bites and wrap in lettuce leaves with cucumber, carrots, and extra sauce.
- Bang Bang Salmon Rice Bowl: Top fresh rice with reheated salmon bites, avocado slices, edamame, and a fried egg.
- Bang Bang Salmon Salad: Break up leftover bites and toss with mixed greens, mandarin oranges, and a drizzle of the bang bang sauce thinned with rice vinegar.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (approximately 1/4 of the recipe):
| Calories: 623kcal Carbohydrates: 16g Protein: 35g Fat: 46g Saturated Fat: 7g Cholesterol: 111mg Sodium: 642mg Potassium: 891mg Fiber: 1g Sugar: 11g |
Serving Suggestions
Present your Bang Bang Salmon Bites in one of these Instagram-worthy ways:
| Individual Bamboo Boats: Serve in small bamboo boats lined with parchment paper for an elegant appetizer presentation. Family Style: Place a large bowl of fluffy rice in the center of the table, topped with Bang Bang Salmon Bites and surrounded by small bowls of extra sauce and garnishes. Composed Rice Bowls: Arrange sections of rice, Bang Bang Salmon Bites, sliced avocado, cucumber, and edamame in individual bowls for a complete meal. Lettuce Cups: Offer butter lettuce leaves for guests to create their own Bang Bang Salmon Bites wraps with rice and garnishes. |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
| Overcooking the Salmon: Salmon continues cooking after removal from heat. Pull it from the oven when it’s just barely done to prevent dry, tough Bang Bang Salmon Bites. Under-drying the Salmon: Skipping the thorough patting dry leads to steamed rather than crispy salmon. Take the extra minute with paper towels—it’s worth it. Over-saucing Too Soon: Adding too much sauce or adding it too early causes the crispy coating to soften quickly. Serve extra sauce on the side instead. Neglecting the Broil Step: The final broil is what creates that beautiful golden finish on your Bang Bang Salmon Bites. Keep a close eye during this step to prevent burning. Using Cold Salmon: Starting with cold salmon straight from the refrigerator leads to uneven cooking. Let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before cutting and coating. |
Storage & Reheating Tips
Refrigerator Storage
Store leftover Bang Bang Salmon Bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the extra sauce in a separate container to prevent the salmon from becoming soggy.
Freezer Storage
While you can freeze cooked Bang Bang Salmon Bites for up to 1 month, the texture will change upon thawing. For best results, freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to an airtight container.
Reheating for Optimal Texture
- Air Fryer Method (Best): Reheat at 350°F for 2-4 minutes to restore some crispness.
- Oven Method: Place on a wire rack over a baking sheet and heat at 350°F for about 5 minutes.
- Avoid Microwaving: This will make your Bang Bang Salmon Bites soggy and can give the salmon an unpleasant fishy flavor.
FAQs
Can I make Bang Bang Salmon Bites ahead of time?
You can prepare the salmon cubes and sauce up to a day ahead, but for the best texture, cook and coat the salmon just before serving. The sauce can be made up to 3 days in advance.
Are Bang Bang Salmon Bites spicy?
These Bang Bang Salmon Bites have a moderate heat level from both the Cajun seasoning and the sriracha in the sauce. Adjust the sriracha amount to control the spice level—use less for milder bites or more for extra kick.
Can I use frozen salmon for Bang Bang Salmon Bites?
Yes, but thaw it completely and pat it very dry before cutting and coating. Frozen salmon often releases more moisture during cooking, which can affect the crispiness.
What’s the best way to cut salmon for Bang Bang Salmon Bites?
Use a very sharp knife and cut against the natural grain of the salmon for the best texture. Aim for 1-inch cubes and try to make them as uniform as possible.
Can Bang Bang Salmon Bites be served cold?
While best enjoyed hot, these bites are also delicious at room temperature. However, once refrigerated, they should be reheated for the best texture and flavor.
Conclusion
Bang Bang Salmon Bites
These Bang Bang Salmon Bites bring together the perfect balance of texture and flavor: crispy, tender salmon coated in a creamy, sweet-spicy sauce that keeps you coming back for “just one more bite.” Whether served as an impressive appetizer at your next gathering or as a quick yet satisfying weeknight dinner, this dish delivers restaurant-quality results with minimal effort.
The combination of cooking techniques—baking followed by broiling—ensures perfectly cooked salmon with a golden exterior, while the signature bang bang sauce adds that crave-worthy element that makes these bites so memorable. With endless serving possibilities and variations to suit different preferences, Bang Bang Salmon Bites deserve a permanent place in your recipe collection.
Made these Bang Bang Salmon Bites? Drop your twist in the comments, rate the recipe, and tag us on facebook, instagram with #erinrecipes — we might feature your creation!
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Bang Bang Salmon Bites: Crispy Oven-Baked Delight in 20 Minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
These Bang Bang Salmon Bites are crispy, tender cubes of perfectly seasoned salmon coated in a sweet, spicy, and creamy sauce that’s utterly addictive. With a golden Cajun-spiced crust and a drizzle of tangy Bang Bang sauce, they’re perfect as an appetizer, main course, or served over rice for a complete meal. Ready in just 25 minutes, this restaurant-quality dish brings bold flavor and effortless elegance to your dinner table.
Ingredients
Salmon Bites
- 1½ pounds salmon fillet (skinless salmon fillet)
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning or Creole seasoning
Bang Bang Sauce
- ¾ cup mayonnaise
- ⅓ cup Thai sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha
- 1 tablespoon lime juice (fresh is best)
Serving & Garnish
- Cooked rice (Jasmine or Basmati)
- Sliced green onions
- Red chili pepper (like a Fresno chili, thinly sliced)
- Sesame seeds
Instructions
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 425°F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cut and Dry the Salmon: Pat the salmon fillet completely dry with paper towels. Cut it into uniform 1-inch cubes and place them in a large bowl.
- Coat with Oil: Drizzle the olive oil over the salmon cubes and toss gently until each piece is lightly coated.
- Season and Coat: Sprinkle the cornstarch and Cajun seasoning directly over the oiled salmon. Toss again until the salmon is evenly and thoroughly coated.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Arrange the seasoned salmon bites in a single layer on the baking sheet. Make sure there is space between each piece to allow them to crisp up.
- Bake and Broil: Bake the salmon for 10-12 minutes. Switch the oven to a high broil and cook for an additional 5 minutes. The salmon is ready when the coating is golden brown and the fish flakes easily with a fork.
- Make Bang Bang Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and lime juice until smooth.
- Toss in Sauce: Once the salmon is cooked, transfer the hot bites to a clean bowl. Pour ½ of the Bang Bang sauce over the top and toss gently to coat.
- Serve and Garnish: To serve, scoop the cooked rice into bowls. Top with salmon bites. Garnish with sliced green onions, fresh red chili slices, sesame seeds, and drizzles of more bang bang sauce.
Notes
Pat the salmon completely dry before coating to ensure the crispiest exterior. Cut salmon cubes uniformly for even cooking. The Bang Bang sauce can be made up to 3 days ahead and stored in the fridge. For extra crispiness, use an air fryer at 400°F for 8-10 minutes instead of the oven. Store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days, though salmon will lose its crispiness. Reheat in an air fryer at 350°F for 2-4 minutes or in a 350°F oven for 5 minutes to restore some crispness. Avoid microwaving as it will soften the coating. Cooked salmon can be frozen for up to 1 month, though coating will soften once thawed.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (1/4th of dish)
- Calories: 623
- Sugar: 11g
- Sodium: 642mg
- Fat: 46g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 38g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 111mg
Keywords: bang bang salmon, crispy salmon bites, spicy salmon