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Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites drizzled with spicy sauce and garnished with green onions

Bang Bang Salmon Bites – Crispy, Spicy & Irresistible Recipe

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Introduction

I still remember the first time I made Bang Bang Salmon Bites—I was craving something crispy, spicy, and full of flavor but wanted a twist on traditional fried seafood. I had tried Bang Bang Shrimp before, and I thought, why not give salmon the same treatment? Let me tell you—it was a game-changer. The salmon was tender and flaky on the inside, golden and crispy on the outside, and the creamy, spicy Bang Bang sauce took it to the next level.

Since that first bite, this has become a go-to appetizer and weeknight dinner in my home. Whether served as a snack, over rice, or in tacos, these little bites are irresistible. In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about making Bang Bang Salmon Bites, from the best ingredients to expert cooking tips!

What Are Bang Bang Salmon Bites?

A Crispy Twist on a Classic

If you’ve ever had Bang Bang Shrimp, you already know the magic of the Bang Bang sauce—a creamy, spicy, slightly sweet sauce that coats crispy fried seafood perfectly. Bang Bang Salmon Bites bring that same delicious concept to flaky salmon chunks, creating a dish that’s:
✔️ Crunchy on the outside
✔️ Tender and juicy inside
✔️ Coated in a creamy, spicy sauce
✔️ Quick and easy to make

What Makes Them So Addictive?

Unlike traditional battered fish, Bang Bang Salmon Bites are lighter and crispier, thanks to panko breadcrumbs and a simple coating technique. Plus, the sauce is the perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and tangy, making every bite unforgettable.

Ingredients for the Best Bang Bang Salmon Bites

Key Ingredients for the Best Bang Bang Salmon Bites Recipe

For the Salmon Bites

  • 1 lb fresh salmon, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • ½ cup buttermilk (for marinating)
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • ½ cup flour
  • ½ tsp paprika
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • 2 tbsp cornstarch (for extra crispiness)
  • Oil for frying (or air frying alternative)

For the Bang Bang Sauce

  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • ¼ cup sweet chili sauce
  • 1 tbsp sriracha (adjust for spice preference)
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • 1 tsp rice vinegar

Optional Garnishes

  • Chopped green onions
  • Sesame seeds
  • Fresh lime wedges

Step-by-Step: How to Make Bang Bang Salmon Bites

Step 1: Prepare the Salmon

  1. Cut the salmon into bite-sized cubes and place them in a bowl.
  2. Pour buttermilk over the salmon and let it marinate for 15–20 minutes (this helps tenderize the fish and adds flavor).
Fresh salmon fillets being cut into bite-sized cubes for Bang Bang Salmon Bites

Step 2: Prepare the Breading Station

  1. In one bowl, mix panko, flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
  2. In another bowl, whisk one egg.
  3. Drain the salmon from the buttermilk.

Step 3: Coat & Fry the Salmon Bites

  1. Dip each salmon cube into the egg, then coat with the panko mixture.
  2. Heat oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C) and fry salmon bites for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown.
  3. Drain on a paper towel to remove excess oil.

🛑 Air Fryer Option: Spray salmon with oil and cook at 400°F for 8-10 minutes, shaking halfway.

Salmon pieces being coated in panko breadcrumbs for crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites

Step 4: Make the Bang Bang Sauce

  1. In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and rice vinegar.
  2. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
A bowl of creamy Bang Bang sauce with a spoon lifting a drizzle

Step 5: Toss & Serve

  1. Drizzle or toss the crispy salmon bites in Bang Bang sauce.
  2. Garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, and lime wedges.
  3. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Bang Bang Salmon Bites drizzled with spicy sauce and garnished with sesame seeds and green onions

Best Ways to Serve Bang Bang Salmon Bites

🔥 Over rice – A simple Bang Bang Salmon Bowl!
🔥 In tacos – Add shredded cabbage and avocado for the ultimate Bang Bang Taco!
🔥 As an appetizer – Serve with toothpicks for easy dipping.
🔥 In lettuce wraps – A low-carb alternative.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

🚫 Skipping the buttermilk marinade – It adds tenderness and flavor.
🚫 Using too much oil – Keep the frying light and crisp, not greasy.
🚫 Overcooking the salmon – Salmon cooks quickly, so fry just until golden.
🚫 Drowning in sauce – Coat lightly to keep the crunch!

FAQs About Bang Bang Salmon Bites

1. Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes! Just thaw it completely, pat it dry, and follow the same steps.

2. Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, but they are best served fresh. You can prep and bread them in advance, then fry just before serving.

3. Can I bake them instead?

Yes! Bake at 425°F for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway.

4. How spicy is the Bang Bang sauce?

It has a mild kick, but you can adjust the spice by adding more or less sriracha.

5. What other proteins can I use?

Shrimp, chicken, or tofu all work well with this recipe!

Conclusion

If you love crispy, flavorful seafood with a spicy kick, Bang Bang Salmon Bites are a must-try. Whether served as an appetizer, in tacos, or over rice, they’re guaranteed to be a hit. Try this easy recipe and take your salmon game to the next level!

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