Can I make Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites in an air fryer?

Yes! Air fryer cooking gives a golden, crispy crust while keeping salmon tender. Preheat to 400°F and cook for 10–12 minutes.

Can I bake them in the oven instead?

Absolutely. Bake at 425°F for 12–15 minutes until golden and crisp.

Is cornstarch necessary for crispiness?

Yes, it creates a light, crunchy coating that flour cannot match.

Can I make Bang Bang sauce ahead of time?

Yes, prepare up to a day in advance and store in the fridge.

Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites – Quick & Easy Recipe 2026

Name: Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb salmon fillet, cut into 1-inch cubes; ½ cup cornstarch; ½ tsp salt; ½ tsp black pepper; ½ tsp paprika; 2 tbsp vegetable oil or spray oil; ¼ cup mayonnaise; 2 tbsp sweet chili sauce; 1-2 tsp sriracha; 1 tsp lime juice; Chopped green onions (optional); Sesame seeds (optional); Lime wedges (optional)

Description

Golden, crispy salmon bites coated with a light cornstarch crust and tossed in a creamy, spicy-sweet Bang Bang sauce. Perfect as an appetizer, snack, or weeknight dinner, these bites are easy to make in the oven or air fryer and packed with flavor that everyone will love.

Ingredients

Scale

🛒 Ingredients (serves 4)

For the Salmon Bites:

1 lb (450g) salmon fillet, skin removed and cut into 1-inch cubes
½ cup cornstarch
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon paprika (optional, for extra color)
2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for oven) or spray oil (for air fryer)

For the Bang Bang Sauce:

¼ cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
1–2 teaspoons sriracha (adjust for spice preference)
1 teaspoon lime juice

For Garnish (optional):

Chopped green onions
Sesame seeds
Lime wedges

Instructions

📝 Instructions:

Step 1: Prep Salmon
Pat salmon cubes dry with paper towels. This helps the coating stick and ensures crispiness.

Step 2: Coat Salmon
In a bowl, mix cornstarch, salt, pepper, and paprika. Toss salmon cubes until evenly coated. Shake off excess.

Step 3: Cook Salmon

Oven: Preheat to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place salmon bites on sheet, drizzle or spray lightly with oil. Bake 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
Air Fryer: Preheat to 400°F (200°C). Arrange salmon bites in a single layer in the basket. Air fry 10–12 minutes, shaking halfway through.

Step 4: Make Bang Bang Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and lime juice until smooth.

Step 5: Toss & Serve
Once salmon bites are cooked, transfer to a serving bowl and drizzle with Bang Bang sauce. Toss lightly to coat. Garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, and lime wedges. Serve immediately.

Notes

Extra Crispy: Lightly freeze salmon cubes for 10–15 minutes before coating to improve crispiness.
Make Ahead: Sauce can be prepared a day in advance. Store in the fridge.
Spice Level: Adjust sriracha to make the sauce mild or extra spicy.
Alternative Cooking: Can also pan-fry salmon bites in 2–3 tablespoons of oil for a traditional fried version.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12–15 minutes (oven) / 10–12 minutes (air fryer)
Category: Appetizer / Snack / Dinner
Method: Oven-Baked / Air-Fried
Cuisine: American / Asian Fusion