Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites

I’ve taken tender, buttery salmon and turned it into bite-sized crispy morsels, then drizzled them with a creamy, tangy, and slightly spicy bang bang sauce. These Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites are quick to make, full of bold flavor, and perfect as an appetizer, main course, or snack.

Why I’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it delivers restaurant-worthy flavor in under 30 minutes. The panko coating fries up golden and crisp, the salmon stays moist inside, and the bang bang sauce ties it all together with the perfect sweet-spicy kick. It’s versatile enough to serve at parties, on game day, or for an easy weeknight dinner—and it’s loaded with the omega-3 goodness of salmon.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the salmon bites:

• Fresh skinless salmon fillets, cut into bite-sized chunks

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• All-purpose flour

• Eggs, beaten

• Panko breadcrumbs

• Oil, for frying (or baking alternative)

For the bang bang sauce:

• Mayonnaise

• Sweet chili sauce

• Sriracha (optional, for more heat)

• Honey (optional, for extra sweetness)

Directions

1. I pat the salmon dry and cut it into bite-sized pieces, then season lightly with salt and pepper.

2. I set up a breading station with three bowls—flour in the first, beaten eggs in the second, and panko breadcrumbs in the third.

3. I dredge each salmon piece in flour, dip it in egg, then coat it thoroughly in panko.

4. For frying, I heat oil in a skillet over medium-high and fry the salmon bites until golden brown and cooked through, about 2–3 minutes per side. For baking, I arrange the coated salmon on a parchment-lined sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes until crispy.

5. While the salmon cooks, I whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha (if using) until smooth.

6. I serve the salmon bites hot, drizzled or tossed with the bang bang sauce.

Servings and timing

• Servings: About 4 portions

• Timing:

  • Prep: 15 minutes

  • Cook: 10–15 minutes

  • Total: 25–30 minutes

Variations

• I swap salmon for shrimp, cod, or chicken breast pieces.

• I make a low-carb version by using almond flour or crushed pork rinds instead of panko.

• I adjust the sauce by adding more sriracha for heat or more honey for sweetness.

• I bake instead of fry for a lighter version.

storage/reheating

I store leftover salmon bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat and keep them crispy, I place them in a 375°F oven or air fryer for a few minutes. I avoid microwaving as it can make the coating soggy.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, I just thaw it completely and pat it very dry before breading to help the coating stick.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely—the bang bang sauce keeps well in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Can I air fry these salmon bites?

Yes, I cook them at 400°F for about 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway for even crispiness.

What oil is best for frying?

I like using a neutral oil with a high smoke point, such as canola, vegetable, or peanut oil.

How spicy is the bang bang sauce?

As written, it’s mildly spicy. I adjust by adding more or less sriracha to taste.

Conclusion

I think these Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites are the perfect mix of crunchy, creamy, and flavorful. They’re quick to make, easy to adapt, and always a crowd-pleaser—whether I’m making them for a party spread or a weeknight dinner.

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