Name: Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1 lb fresh, skinless salmon fillets, cut into 1-inch cubes; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 2 large eggs, beaten; 1 cup panko breadcrumbs; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; 1 tsp paprika; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; Vegetable oil (for frying); 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce; 1 tbsp sriracha (adjust to taste); 1 tbsp honey; 1 tbsp lime juice

When I first whipped up these Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites, I had no idea they’d become such a hit. It all started with a craving for something crispy, flavorful, and a bit adventurous—something that could be an appetizer, a main dish, or just an indulgent snack by the pool. These bite-sized salmon morsels, coated in a crunchy, golden crust and drizzled with a creamy, zesty bang bang sauce, turned out to be everything I had hoped for—and more!

What I love most about these salmon bites is how versatile they are. They bring together the mild, buttery taste of perfectly cooked salmon with the bold, slightly spicy punch of the bang bang sauce. Whether you’re hosting a backyard gathering or looking to upgrade your weeknight dinner, these little bites deliver big flavor every time.

Why You’ll Love These Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites

Crispy Perfection: The panko breading gives each bite a satisfying crunch.
Irresistible Sauce: The creamy bang bang sauce is sweet, spicy, and tangy.
Easy to Make: Minimal prep and quick cooking time.
Versatile: Serve as an appetizer, main course, or snack.
Healthy Twist: Salmon is packed with omega-3s and nutrients.

What Kind of Salmon Should I Use?

When making Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites, the best choice is fresh, skinless salmon fillets. Look for high-quality, wild-caught salmon if possible, as it has a firmer texture and richer flavor. If wild-caught isn’t available, farm-raised salmon works well too—just be sure to choose a fresh, bright-colored fillet with no strong fishy odor.

If fresh salmon isn’t an option, frozen salmon can work just as well. Just be sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before cutting it into bite-sized pieces. Dry salmon ensures the breading sticks well and fries up beautifully crispy.

Options for Substitutions

Salmon Alternatives: If you don’t have salmon, you can try this recipe with shrimp, cod, or even chicken breast cut into bite-sized pieces.
Breading Options: Panko breadcrumbs provide the crispiest coating, but you can use crushed crackers, almond flour for a low-carb option, or even crushed pork rinds for a keto-friendly twist.
Bang Bang Sauce Variations: Want to switch up the flavor? Use sriracha instead of sweet chili sauce for extra heat, or add honey for a touch of sweetness.
Dairy-Free Version: Substitute regular mayonnaise with a dairy-free or vegan mayo alternative.
Baking Instead of Frying: If you prefer a lighter option, bake the salmon bites at 400°F (200°C) for about 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispiness.

Ingredients for Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites

Each ingredient plays a crucial role in making these salmon bites perfectly crispy and flavorful. Here’s what you’ll need:

Salmon Fillets – The star of the dish! Fresh, skinless salmon cut into bite-sized cubes ensures tender, flaky bites.
All-Purpose Flour – Helps create a light coating so the egg wash sticks to the salmon.
Eggs – Acts as a binder, helping the breadcrumbs adhere to the salmon pieces.
Panko Breadcrumbs – The key to achieving that golden, crispy crust. Panko is lighter and crunchier than regular breadcrumbs.
Garlic Powder & Onion Powder – These add a layer of savory depth to the coating.
Paprika – Adds a mild smokiness and enhances the golden color.
Salt & Pepper – Essential for seasoning every layer of the bites.
Vegetable Oil – Used for frying, giving the salmon bites a crispy, golden-brown exterior.

For the Bang Bang Sauce:

Mayonnaise – The creamy base of the sauce.
Sweet Chili Sauce – Adds a balance of sweetness and heat.
Sriracha – Gives the sauce a slight kick of spice.
Honey – Adds a touch of sweetness to balance the heat.
Lime Juice – Brings a bright, tangy element to the sauce.

Each ingredient works together to create the perfect bite—crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with flavor from the bold bang bang sauce!

Step 1: Prepare the Salmon

Cut the fresh, skinless salmon fillets into bite-sized cubes, about 1 to 1.5 inches each. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture—this helps the breading stick better.

Step 2: Set Up the Breading Station

In three separate bowls, prepare the breading components:

Bowl 1: Add all-purpose flour mixed with a pinch of salt and pepper.
Bowl 2: Beat eggs until smooth.
Bowl 3: Combine panko breadcrumbs with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper for a flavorful crunch.

Step 3: Bread the Salmon Bites

Coat each salmon piece in flour, shaking off any excess. Dip it into the beaten eggs, ensuring it’s fully coated. Finally, roll the salmon in the panko mixture, pressing gently to adhere the crumbs. Set the breaded pieces aside on a plate.

Step 4: Heat the Oil

In a large skillet, heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil over medium heat. The oil is ready when a small piece of bread sizzles and turns golden within 30-40 seconds.

Step 5: Fry the Salmon Bites

Carefully add the breaded salmon bites to the hot oil, avoiding overcrowding the pan. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 6: Make the Bang Bang Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and fresh lime juice until smooth and well combined. Adjust the spice level to your preference by adding more or less sriracha.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Arrange the crispy salmon bites on a serving platter. Drizzle with the bang bang sauce and garnish with freshly chopped parsley or green onions. Serve immediately with extra sauce on the side for dipping.

How Long to Cook Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites

Cooking these salmon bites doesn’t take long at all! When frying, each batch should only take 2-3 minutes per side, depending on the size of your salmon pieces. You’re looking for a golden-brown crust and an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for perfectly cooked salmon.

If you prefer baking, place the breaded salmon bites on a lined baking sheet and cook at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even crispiness. For an extra crunch, you can broil them for the last 1-2 minutes, keeping a close eye to avoid burning.

Tips for Perfect Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites

Dry the Salmon Well: Excess moisture will prevent the breading from sticking properly and can lead to soggy bites.
Press the Breading Firmly: When coating the salmon with panko, gently press the crumbs onto the salmon pieces to ensure an even and crispy coating.
Avoid Overcrowding the Pan: When frying, give the salmon bites enough space to cook evenly. Overcrowding can drop the oil temperature and make the bites greasy.
Control Oil Temperature: Keep the oil at a steady 350°F (175°C) for the best results. Too hot, and the bites will burn; too cool, and they’ll absorb excess oil.
Use Fresh Oil: If making multiple batches, consider changing the oil if it becomes too dark or has too many crumbs.
Serve Immediately: These salmon bites are best when served fresh and hot, keeping the crunch intact.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Skipping the Drying Step: Not patting the salmon dry can result in a soggy coating. Always ensure the salmon is thoroughly dry before breading.
Using Regular Breadcrumbs: While it’s possible, regular breadcrumbs won’t give you the same crunch as panko. For the ultimate crispy texture, stick with panko.
Frying at the Wrong Temperature: Too hot and the bites will burn on the outside before the inside cooks through. Too cold, and they’ll absorb too much oil. Maintain a steady 350°F (175°C).
Not Flipping While Baking: If you bake these bites, don’t forget to flip them halfway through. This ensures they get crispy on all sides.
Overcooking the Salmon: Salmon cooks quickly. Pull them from the oil as soon as they’re golden and crispy to avoid dry, overcooked bites.

What to Serve With Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites?

These crispy bites are incredibly versatile and pair well with a variety of sides. Here are 8 delicious ideas:

1. Creamy Coleslaw

The crunch and creaminess of coleslaw complement the crispy, spicy salmon bites perfectly.

2. Garlic Parmesan Fries

Crispy fries dusted with parmesan and garlic make for an indulgent pairing.

3. Mixed Green Salad

For a lighter option, a fresh salad with a tangy vinaigrette adds balance to the rich flavors of the salmon bites.

4. Coconut Rice

Serve the bites over fluffy coconut rice for a tropical twist that pairs beautifully with the bang bang sauce.

5. Sweet Potato Wedges

Baked sweet potato wedges add a touch of sweetness and a healthy side option.

6. Vegetable Stir-Fry

A colorful medley of sautéed vegetables brings freshness and color to your plate.

7. Corn on the Cob

Grilled or steamed corn on the cob with a bit of butter and herbs is a simple yet satisfying side.

8. Cucumber and Avocado Salad

A cool, refreshing salad with creamy avocado and crunchy cucumbers to balance the spicy bang bang sauce.

These serving suggestions can turn your Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites into a complete meal, whether you’re hosting a gathering or just enjoying a cozy night in!

Storage Instructions

If you have leftover Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites (which is rare because they’re so delicious!), you can store them for later:

Refrigerator: Place the salmon bites in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the bites in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 months.

Reheating Tips:

Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Reheat the salmon bites on a baking sheet for 8-10 minutes, or until they are crispy and heated through.
Air Fryer: Pop them in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to bring back their crunch.
Avoid the Microwave: Microwaving can make the breading soggy, so stick to the oven or air fryer for the best results.

Estimated Nutrition

Per serving (based on 4 servings):

Calories: Approximately 320 kcal
Protein: 22 g
Carbohydrates: 18 g
Fat: 18 g
Saturated Fat: 3 g
Fiber: 1 g
Sugar: 4 g
Sodium: 560 mg

These values are estimates and can vary depending on the exact ingredients and portion sizes used. This recipe offers a good balance of protein and healthy fats, making it not only tasty but also nutritious!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I Make These Salmon Bites in an Air Fryer?

Absolutely! Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and cook the breaded salmon bites for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even crispiness.

2. What Can I Use Instead of Panko Breadcrumbs?

You can substitute panko with crushed cornflakes, regular breadcrumbs, or even crushed crackers. Almond flour or crushed pork rinds work well for a low-carb or keto option.

3. Is It Possible to Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?

Yes! Swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

4. How Spicy is the Bang Bang Sauce?

The sauce has a mild to medium spice level, depending on how much sriracha you add. You can adjust the heat to your liking or make it kid-friendly by reducing the sriracha.

5. Can I Prepare the Salmon Bites Ahead of Time?

Yes, you can bread the salmon bites and refrigerate them for a few hours before frying. Just make sure they are well-covered to avoid drying out.

6. What’s the Best Oil for Frying?

A neutral oil with a high smoke point is best, such as vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil. These ensure the salmon bites cook evenly and maintain their crispy coating.

7. How Do I Know When the Salmon is Cooked?

The salmon should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). The flesh will be opaque and flake easily with a fork.

8. Can I Use Pre-Made Bang Bang Sauce?

Of course! If you’re short on time, a store-bought bang bang sauce works perfectly. However, making it from scratch adds a fresh, homemade touch.

Conclusion

I hope you enjoy making (and eating!) these Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites as much as I do. They’re a perfect blend of crunch, spice, and flavor that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Don’t forget to pin this recipe on Pinterest and share it on social media to spread the love. Whether you’re serving these at a party or enjoying them as a family dinner, they’re bound to be a hit!

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