These Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon Bites are crispy, flavorful, and coated in a lighter, healthier Bang Bang sauce! Perfect for a protein-packed weeknight dinner!
Crispy, flavorful, and coated in a creamy, spicy sauce—these Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon Bites are the perfect quick and easy dish for a weeknight dinner or a fun appetizer. If you love that sweet, spicy, and creamy Bang Bang sauce, you’re going to love this simple air fryer version of salmon bites!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Protein-Packed & Nutritious: Salmon is rich in healthy fats, omega-3s, and high-quality protein, making these air fryer salmon bites both satisfying and good for you.
- Quick & Easy: Ready in just 15 minutes! Perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re short on time.
- Deliciously Addictive: That Bang Bang sauce is a perfect balance of creamy, sweet, and spicy—it’s hard to stop at just one bite! My version uses Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise, making it a healthier, lower-calorie alternative. If you opt for fat-free Greek yogurt, it’s completely fat-free while still being just as delicious and creamy as the original.
Ingredients
- Salmon Fillet: Use high-quality salmon fillets for the best flavor and texture. You can remove the skin or leave it on, depending on your preference. If you want to save time, buying skinless salmon is the easiest option!
- Olive Oil, Honey, Rice Vinegar, Paprika, Salt, and Pepper: To season the salmon. Honey can be swapped out with maple syrup.
- Greek Yogurt: A healthier alternative to mayonnaise, making the sauce creamy yet light.
- Thai Sweet Chili Sauce: Provides a sweet and mildly spicy kick.
- Sriracha: Brings the heat! You can replace it with sambal oelek or another hot sauce. Adjust the amount based on your spice preference.
- Maple Syrup: Or honey. Adds a touch of sweetness to balance the spice.
- Rice Vinegar: Enhances the sauce with a mild tang. Lime juice can work as a substitute.
How To Make
- Remove the salmon skin (or leave it on if you prefer), pat dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture, then cut them into 1-inch pieces.
- In a large bowl, combine olive oil, honey, rice vinegar, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Add the salmon cubes and gently toss to coat.
- Arrange the salmon bites in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Do not overcrowd, cook in batches if necessary. → Tip: If you’re keeping the skin on, place the salmon skin-side up to help it crisp up nicely!
- Air Fry for 5-6 minutes in a preheated air fryer at 410°F (210°C), or until the salmon reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.
- In the meantime, whisk together all the ingredients for the bang bang sauce in a small bowl.
- Drizzle or toss the crispy salmon bites with the Bang Bang sauce and serve immediately.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with steamed rice and a side of veggies or cucumber salad for a full meal.
- Add the crispy bang bang salmon bites to a salad for a protein-packed lunch. Pairs well with lettuce, Asian slaw, or quinoa salad.
- Serve as an appetizer with toothpicks and extra sauce for dipping!
Tips for Success
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer: If you double the recipe, cook in batches to keep them crispy.
- Check for doneness: The salmon is cooked when it flakes easily with a fork and has an opaque pink color inside. If unsure, use an instant-read thermometer to ensure it has reached a safe internal temperature of 145°F.
- Pat dry the salmon: Excess moisture prevents crispiness, so be sure to pat the salmon dry before seasoning. A dry surface helps the air fryer work its magic for perfectly crispy bites and help the seasoning stick better.
- Store Properly: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat for 3 minutes in a preheated air fryer at 360°F (180°C).
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Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon Bites
These Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon Bites are crispy, flavorful, and coated in a lighter, healthier Bang Bang sauce! Perfect for a protein-packed weeknight dinner!
Serving Size 4
Ingredients
Crispy Salmon Bites
- 1 pound salmon filet, skin removed
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Bang Bang Sauce
- ¼ cup Greek yogurt
- 1 ½ tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
- ½ teaspoon sriracha, or sambal oelek
Instructions
Crispy Salmon Bites
- Preheat the air fryer to 410°F (210°C).
- Remove the salmon skin (or leave it on if you prefer), pat dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture, then cut them into 1-inch pieces.
- In a large bowl, combine olive oil, honey, rice vinegar, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Add the salmon bites and gently toss to coat.
- Arrange the salmon bites in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Do not overcrowd, cook in batches if necessary. → If you’re keeping the skin on, place the salmon skin-side up to help it crisp up nicely!
- Air Fry for 5-6 minutes, or until the salmon reaches an internal temperature of 145°F. See notes.
Bang Bang Sauce
- In a small bowl, whisk together all sauce ingredients.
- Drizzle or toss the crispy salmon bites with the Bang Bang sauce and serve immediately.
Notes
- Garnish with chopped scallion, cilantro, toasted sesame seeds, Furikake, or spicy chili crisp.
- Check for doneness: The salmon is cooked when it flakes easily with a fork and has an opaque pink color inside. If unsure, use an instant-read thermometer to ensure it has reached a safe internal temperature of 145°F.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat for 3 minutes in a preheated air fryer at 360°F (180°C).
Nutrition
Calories: 197kcal
Carbohydrates :5g
Protein :24g
Fat :8g
Fiber :0.2g
Sugar :5g
