Tender, flavorful salmon bites coated in a sweet and spicy Bang Bang sauce, air-fried to crispy perfection. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or as a show-stopping appetizer.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Healthier Alternative: Using an air fryer keeps the salmon crispy without excess oil.
Quick and Easy: Ready in just 20 minutes, perfect for busy evenings.
Flavor-Packed: The sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey make these bites irresistibly delicious.
Versatile: Serve as an appetizer, pair with rice or salad, or enjoy as a light meal.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 ½ pounds salmon, cut into 1-inch bites
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon kosher salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 cup mayonnaise
½ cup Thai sweet chili sauce
2 teaspoons Sriracha (adjust for heat preference)
2 tablespoons honey
Chives, for garnish

Directions

Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 390°F (200°C) to ensure even cooking.

Step 2: Season the Salmon

In a large mixing bowl, combine olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Add the salmon bites and toss gently to coat evenly with the seasoning mixture.

Step 3: Make the Bang Bang Sauce

In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey until smooth.
Reserve half of the sauce for serving and use the other half for coating the salmon.

Step 4: Coat the Salmon

Toss the seasoned salmon bites in the Bang Bang sauce, ensuring they are fully coated.

Step 5: Air Fry the Salmon

Place the salmon bites in the air fryer basket in a single layer, working in batches if necessary.
Cook for 4-5 minutes, flip, and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes, or until the salmon reaches an internal temperature of 140-145°F (60-63°C).

Step 6: Serve

Transfer the cooked salmon to a plate and drizzle with the reserved Bang Bang sauce.
Garnish with chopped chives and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

Spicy Kick: Add extra Sriracha or sprinkle red pepper flakes for a fiery twist.
Alternative Proteins: Try the Bang Bang sauce with shrimp, chicken, or tofu.
Gluten-Free: Ensure the Thai sweet chili sauce is gluten-free for a gluten-free dish.
Oven Option: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 16-18 minutes or until cooked through.

Storage and Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 3-4 minutes to restore crispiness.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, thaw the salmon completely before cutting into bites and proceeding with the recipe.

2. How do I prevent the salmon from sticking to the air fryer?

Lightly grease the air fryer basket with cooking spray or use parchment paper liners designed for air fryers.

3. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, use a dairy-free mayonnaise substitute for a dairy-free version.

4. What can I serve with Bang Bang Salmon Bites?

Pair with rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.

5. Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, the Bang Bang sauce can be prepared up to 3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

6. How do I adjust the spice level?

Reduce or increase the Sriracha to control the heat. Add more honey for a sweeter flavor.

7. Can I freeze cooked salmon bites?

Yes, freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat in the air fryer for best results.

8. How can I tell when the salmon is cooked?

The salmon should be opaque and flake easily with a fork. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 140-145°F (60-63°C).

9. Can I use skin-on salmon?

Yes, but remove the skin before cutting into bites for this recipe.

10. Is this recipe keto-friendly?

Replace the honey with a sugar-free sweetener to make this recipe keto-friendly.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon Bites are a quick, easy, and flavorful option for seafood lovers. The sweet and spicy sauce complements the crispy salmon perfectly, making it an irresistible addition to your meal rotation. Pair it with your favorite sides and enjoy a restaurant-quality dish at home!