Bang Bang Salmon is a delicious and flavorful seafood dish that brings together crispy, tender salmon with a creamy, spicy-sweet Bang Bang Sauce. Originally inspired by Bang Bang Shrimp, this dish has gained immense popularity for its easy preparation, bold flavors, and versatility.
Quick Overview:
- Prep: Cut salmon into bite-sized pieces and pat dry.
- Season: Toss with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Sauce: Whisk together mayo, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and lime juice.
- Cook: Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes, shaking halfway.
- Serve: Drizzle with Bang Bang Sauce and enjoy hot!
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But what makes Bang Bang Salmon so special? How does it compare to other Bang Bang-style dishes? This ultimate guide covers everything from the history of Bang Bang Sauce to the best cooking methods, serving suggestions, and nutrition breakdown. Whether you're a home cook or a professional chef, this guide will help you perfect Bang Bang Salmon with confidence!
What is Bang Bang Salmon?
Bang Bang Salmon is a crispy, juicy, and flavor-packed salmon dish coated in a creamy, spicy-sweet Bang Bang Sauce. It is typically prepared by baking, grilling, air frying, or pan-searing salmon and then drizzling (or tossing) it with the iconic sauce.
Why is it a Popular Dish?
- Burst of Flavor – The creamy Bang Bang Sauce combines sweetness, heat, and tanginess, making it incredibly addictive.
- Quick & Easy – Cooks in under 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Healthy Option – Salmon is loaded with omega-3s and lean protein, making this dish both delicious and nutritious.
- Versatile – Can be served over rice, salads, tacos, or with roasted vegetables.
How Does it Compare to Traditional Bang Bang Shrimp?
Bang Bang Salmon follows the same concept as Bang Bang Shrimp, but instead of deep-frying battered shrimp, the salmon is grilled, pan-seared, baked, or air-fried for a healthier twist. You still get that signature crispy texture and spicy-sweet Bang Bang Sauce, but with a nutrient-rich, omega-3-packed salmon that’s just as delicious.
If you love easy air fryer recipes, you might also enjoy my Air Fryer Salmon Bites! They’re bite-sized, crispy, and perfect for snacking or tossing into a Bang Bang-style dish. Whether you use them in this recipe or as a standalone appetizer, air frying is the best way to get tender, juicy salmon with perfectly crisp edges—all without deep frying!
History & Origin of Bang Bang Sauce
Where Did Bang Bang Sauce Originate?
The term "Bang Bang" originates from a Chinese street food dish called Bang Bang Chicken, which was known for its tenderized chicken with a spicy peanut sauce. However, the modern Bang Bang Sauce we know today became famous thanks to Bonefish Grill, a popular seafood chain that created Bang Bang Shrimp.
How Did it Become Popular in Seafood Dishes?
After Bang Bang Shrimp gained popularity in restaurants and food blogs, home cooks and chefs began experimenting with other proteins, leading to the creation of Bang Bang Salmon. The sauce’s ability to complement various seafood dishes made it a staple in many kitchens.
Variations Across Different Cuisines
- Traditional: Mayo, sweet chili sauce, sriracha
- Healthier Versions: Greek yogurt instead of mayo
- Spicy Variations: Extra cayenne, hot sauce, or chili flakesA
- Asian Fusion: Adding soy sauce, ginger, or sesame oil
Ingredients for Bang Bang Salmon
Salmon Selection: Farmed vs. Wild, Best Cuts
Best Cuts: ⇢ Salmon fillets with skin on (keeps the fish moist and adds crispiness).Farmed vs. Wild: ⇢ Wild-caught salmon is leaner and has a more intense flavor, while farm-raised salmon is richer and softer.
Bang Bang Sauce Ingredients:
- Mayonnaise – The creamy base of the sauce. (For a healthier option, use Greek yogurt).
- Sweet Chili Sauce – Adds the perfect balance of sweetness and spice.
- Sriracha or Hot Sauce – Gives the sauce a fiery kick.Honey (Optional) – For a touch of extra sweetness.
- Lime Juice or Vinegar – Adds brightness to the sauce.
Seasonings & Marinades Ingredients:
- Garlic Powder & Paprika – Enhance the savory taste of the salmon.
- Salt & Pepper – To bring out the natural flavor.
- Olive Oil or Butter – Helps with crisping and caramelization.
How to Cook Bang Bang Salmon
While air frying creates that crispy, golden exterior in minutes, baking is another foolproof way to cook Bang Bang Salmon to tender, juicy perfection. If you love oven-baked salmon, you’ll also enjoy my guide on How to Bake Salmon Perfectly—it covers everything from choosing the best salmon fillet to getting that ideal flaky texture.
Whip Up That Creamy Sauce.
In a small bowl, whisk together:
- ✔ ½ cup mayo – creamy, dreamy base
- ✔ ¼ cup Thai sweet chili sauce – perfect balance of sweet and heat
- ✔ 1 tablespoon sriracha – for just the right kick (or more if you're feeling bold!)
- ✔ 1 tablespoon honey – a little sticky-sweet magic
- ✔ 1 tablespoon lime juice – a pop of brightness
Stir it all up until smooth and saucy, then set it aside – trust me, this sauce is gold.
Pro Tip: Want it spicier? Add a little more sriracha. Want it tangier? A squeeze of extra lime will do the trick!
Coat Those Salmon Bites.
Grab 1½ pounds of fresh salmon fillets and cut them into bite-sized pieces – think crispy nuggets of heaven. Toss them in a bowl with:
- ✔ 1 tablespoon olive oil – helps everything stick and crisps things up
- ✔ 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ✔ 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ✔ 1 teaspoon smoked paprika – subtle, smoky, and warm
- ✔ ½ teaspoon salt + ½ teaspoon black pepper – because, always
- ✔ ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional) – for that extra little heat wave
Gently mix it all together until every piece is beautifully coated in that spice magic.
Pro Tip: Be gentle! You want the salmon bites intact, not mashed.
Get That Crispy, Perfect Cook on the Salmon.
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) – just a quick 3 minutes. Then, lay out your salmon bites in a single layer in the basket. No crowding! These little beauties need space to crisp up. Air fry for 8-10 minutes, giving the basket a good shake halfway through. The salmon should come out crispy on the edges, tender inside, and totally irresistible.
Drizzle, Dip, and Devour.
Move those crispy salmon bites to a plate and generously drizzle with that Bang Bang sauce. Serve any extra sauce on the side because, let’s be real, you’ll want to dip everything in it. This is best served HOT, straight out of the air fryer, when the salmon is still crisp and that sauce just melts into it.
Pro Tip: If you have leftovers (unlikely, but hey), store the salmon and sauce separately so it stays crispy when reheating.
Full Recipe
Bang Bang Salmon Recipe
Pin RecipeEquipments:
- Air Fryer
Ingredients:
- 1½ lbs Salmon fillets (skin removed, cut into bite-sized pieces)
For Seasoning Ingredients:
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
For Creamy Sauce Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon Sriracha sauce (adjust the amount for preference)
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup Thai sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 tablespoon raw honey
Instructions:
PREPARE the BANG BANG Sauce:
- Grab Your Mixing BowlStart with a small to medium-sized mixing bowl. Make sure it’s big enough to comfortably whisk everything together without splashing. If you’re doubling the recipe, use a larger bowl to keep things neat.Pro Tip: Using a bowl with a slightly rounded bottom makes whisking easier and helps incorporate all the ingredients smoothly.
- Add the Creamy BaseSpoon the creamy base directly into the bowl. This ingredient is what gives the sauce its smooth, velvety texture and helps it cling perfectly to the salmon.Whisk it lightly at this stage to loosen it up – this will make it easier to mix when the other ingredients are added.
- Pour in the Sweet & Spicy IngredientsNow, it’s time to balance out the flavors. Add the sweet and spicy elements, which give Bang Bang Sauce its signature taste.Pour them in slowly rather than dumping them all at once—this helps control how well they blend together.Let the sauce sit for a few seconds after adding each ingredient to allow the flavors to meld naturally.
- Squeeze in the Bright & Tangy FlavorsNow, for that final pop of brightness! A touch of citrus enhances the sauce, making it more vibrant and fresh.Pro Tip: Strain out any seeds if using fresh citrus to keep the sauce silky smooth.Use freshly squeezed citrus juice if possible—it adds more depth than bottled versions.Roll the citrus on the counter before cutting it—this helps release more juice.
- Whisk Until Perfectly SmoothNow, take a small whisk or spoon and stir everything together. At first, the ingredients may seem separate, but within 20-30 seconds of whisking, the sauce will turn smooth, creamy, and glossy.Pro Tip: If the sauce feels too thick, add a tiny splash of water, milk, or citrus juice to thin it out slightly.Start slowly, then whisk more vigorously once everything begins to blend.Make sure to scrape the sides of the bowl to incorporate every bit of flavor.
- Taste and Adjust the FlavorsThe secret to the perfect Bang Bang Sauce? Tasting and adjusting!Taste as you go, adjusting little by little until the flavors are just right.Too spicy? Add a little more of the creamy base to mellow it out.Too sweet? A splash of citrus or a pinch of salt will balance it.Not enough kick? Add an extra dash of spice to bring up the heat.
- Set It Aside – Let the Flavors MeldOnce the sauce is smooth, balanced, and delicious, set it aside at room temperature while you prep the salmon. This resting time lets the flavors meld together, making the sauce even better.Pro Tip: If making ahead, store it in the fridge in an airtight container. It can last for up to a week, and the flavors actually intensify over time!
SEASON the SALMON BITES – Infuse the Flavor
- Cut the Salmon into Bite-Sized PiecesLay the salmon fillets on a clean cutting board.Use a sharp knife to slice them into 1-inch cubes—not too small, not too big.Try to keep the pieces uniform in size so they cook evenly.Pro Tip: If your salmon has skin, you can leave it on or remove it—skin-on pieces crisp up beautifully, while skinless gives a more tender bite.
- Drizzle with Olive Oil for Moisture & BindingPour 1 tablespoon of olive oil over the salmon pieces.This helps lock in moisture and makes sure the spices stick evenly to every piece.Use your hands or a spoon to toss lightly and coat the salmon in oil before adding seasonings.Pro Tip: If you want an extra layer of richness, try using melted butter or avocado oil instead of olive oil!
- Add the Seasonings – Flavor Boost!Now, it’s time to build deep, smoky, garlicky flavors with a perfect spice blend.✔ Garlic Powder (1 tsp) – Brings out a rich, savory flavor.✔ Onion Powder (1 tsp) – Adds subtle depth and natural sweetness.✔ Smoked Paprika (1 tsp) – Gives a warm, slightly smoky touch.✔ Salt (½ tsp) – Enhances all the flavors.✔ Black Pepper (½ tsp) – A little heat for balance.✔ Cayenne Pepper (¼ tsp, optional) – For a spicy kick!
- Toss Gently Until Evenly CoatedUsing a spoon, spatula, or clean hands, gently toss the salmon in the seasonings.Keep mixing until every single piece is beautifully coated in spice and oil.Make sure not to squish or break the salmon pieces—handle them gently.Pro Tip: If you have extra time, let the seasoned salmon sit for 10-15 minutes before cooking. This allows the flavors to fully absorb into the fish!
COOK the SALMON:
- Preheat Your Air FryerTurn your air fryer on and set it to 400°F (200°C).Let it preheat for about 3 minutes—this ensures the salmon starts cooking immediately for the best crispiness.Pro Tip: If your air fryer has a built-in preheat function, use it! If not, simply set it to 400°F and let it run empty for a few minutes.
- Arrange the Salmon in the Air Fryer BasketPlace the seasoned salmon bites in the basket in a single layer.Do not overcrowd! Overlapping pieces will steam instead of crisping up.If needed, cook in batches to keep that golden, crispy texture.Pro Tip: Lining the basket with parchment paper can make cleanup easier, but it may slightly reduce crispiness. For the crispiest results, place salmon directly on the basket.
- Air Fry Until Crispy & Cooked ThroughSet the cooking time to 8-10 minutes.At the 4-5 minute mark, shake the basket or use tongs to flip the salmon pieces—this ensures even cooking on all sides.The salmon is done when the edges are crispy, golden brown, and the inside is tender and flaky. Pro Tip: If you’re unsure whether it’s fully cooked, check with a thermometer—salmon should reach 125-130°F (52-54°C) for medium and 140°F (60°C) for well-done.
- Remove and Rest for Maximum JuicinessOnce cooked, carefully transfer the salmon to a plate using tongs or a spatula.Let it rest for 2 minutes before adding sauce—this helps lock in the moisture and keeps it extra juicy.Pro Tip: Resting the salmon also prevents the sauce from soaking in too fast, which keeps the crispy edges intact!
Nutrition Information:
Please note that all nutrition information are just estimates. Values will vary among brands, so we encourage you to calculate these on your own for most accurate results.
Best Cooking Methods for Bang Bang Salmon
Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon (Crispy & Quick)
- Time: 8-10 minutes at 400°F
- Best for: Quick, crispy salmon with minimal oil
Baked Bang Bang Salmon (Healthy & Flavorful)
- Time: 12-15 minutes at 375°F
- Best for: Meal prepping, tender & juicy texture
Grilled Bang Bang Salmon (Smoky & Charred)
- Time: 4-5 minutes per side
- Best for: Outdoor BBQs & smoky flavor
Pan-Seared Bang Bang Salmon (Restaurant-Style)
- Time: 4 minutes per side
- Best for: Crispy salmon skin & caramelization
Slow Cooker Bang Bang Salmon (Effortless & Tender)
- Time: 2-3 hours on low
- Best for: Meal prep & hands-off cooking
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
Best Side Dishes:
- Garlic Butter Rice
- Steamed or Roasted Vegetables
- Salmon Tacos
- Asian Slaw
- Cucumber Salad
Best Drinks to Pair with Bang Bang Salmon
- White Wine: Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay
- Cocktails: Spicy Margarita, Gin & Tonic
- Non-Alcoholic: Coconut Water, Citrus Iced Tea
How to Reheat Leftover Bang Bang Salmon?
Leftover Bang Bang Salmon is still delicious if reheated properly! The key is to warm it up without drying it out. Here are the best ways to reheat it:
Air Fryer (Best for Crispiness) – 3-4 Minutes
- Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the salmon bites in a single layer (no overcrowding).
- Air fry for 3-4 minutes until warmed through and crispy on the edges.
✔ Best for: Keeping the salmon crispy without overcooking.
Oven (Best for Even Heating) – 5-6 Minutes
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place salmon on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Cover loosely with foil to keep moisture in.Bake for 5-6 minutes or until heated through.
✔ Best for: Large batches of leftovers.
Stovetop (Best for Quick Reheating) – 2-3 Minutes
- Heat a nonstick skillet over medium-low heat.
- Add a teaspoon of olive oil or butter.
- Place the salmon in the pan and cover it.Cook for 2-3 minutes, flipping halfway.
✔ Best for: Quick reheating while keeping it moist.
Microwave (Not Recommended, But Works) – 30-60 Seconds
- Place the salmon on a microwave-safe plate.
- Cover with a damp paper towel to prevent drying.
- Heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
Pro Tips When Reheating
- Reheat with Sauce Separately: – Add fresh Bang Bang Sauce after reheating to keep it from becoming soggy.
- Avoid overheating: - Salmon dries out quickly, so heat just until warmed through.
- Store properly. – Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
1 Overcooking the Salmon
The Mistake:
Salmon is delicate and can dry out quickly if overcooked. Many people bake or pan-sear it too long, making it tough and chewy instead of moist and flaky.
The Fix:
- Use a meat thermometer to check doneness (125-130°F for medium, 140°F for well-done).
- Remove from heat a few degrees early – the residual heat will continue cooking it.If using an oven, tent it loosely with foil after removing it to keep moisture in.
2 Not Patting the Salmon Dry Before Cooking
The Mistake:
Excess moisture on the salmon prevents it from searing properly, leaving it steamed instead of crispy.
The Fix:
- Use paper towels to pat the salmon fillets completely dry before seasoning.
- Let salmon sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before cooking to avoid uneven cooking.
3 Using the Wrong Type of Mayo
The Mistake:
Some store-bought mayonnaises contain low-quality oils, preservatives, or artificial flavors that can affect the taste and texture of the Bang Bang Sauce.
The Fix:
- Use a high-quality, full-fat mayo like Duke’s, Kewpie, or avocado-based mayo.
- For a healthier alternative, replace mayo with Greek yogurt or cashew cream.
4 Not Balancing the Spice and Sweetness in the Sauce
The Mistake:
Bang Bang Sauce is known for its perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors. Adding too much sriracha makes it overly spicy, while too much sweet chili sauce can make it overly sweet.
The Fix:
- Taste-test the sauce before adding it to the salmon.
- If it’s too spicy, add more mayo or honey to mellow it out.
- If it’s too sweet, add a splash of vinegar or lime juice to balance it.
- Want more depth of flavor? Add a pinch of garlic powder or smoked paprika.
5 Skipping the Marinade or Seasoning
The Mistake:
Some people only rely on the Bang Bang Sauce for flavor, skipping the seasoning on the salmon itself. This results in a flat, one-dimensional taste.
The Fix:
- Season the salmon well before cooking using salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- For extra flavor, marinate the salmon in a mix of olive oil, soy sauce, and lime juice for 30 minutes before cooking.
6 Cooking the Salmon Straight from the Fridge
The Mistake:
Cooking cold salmon straight from the fridge can cause uneven cooking, where the outside overcooks while the inside remains raw.
The Fix:
- Let salmon sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before cooking.
- This helps the salmon cook evenly and retain juiciness.
7 Drowning the Salmon in Too Much Sauce
The Mistake:
Adding too much Bang Bang Sauce can make the salmon soggy and overpower its natural flavors.
The Fix:
- Drizzle the sauce lightly over the salmon instead of completely covering it.
- Serve extra sauce on the side for dipping instead of soaking the salmon in it.
8 Not Letting the Salmon Rest After Cooking
The Mistake:
Cutting into the salmon immediately after cooking causes the juices to escape, making it dry.
The Fix:
- Let the salmon rest for 2-3 minutes before cutting or serving.
- This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the salmon moist and tender.
9 Using Low-Quality or Frozen Salmon Without Thawing Properly
The Mistake:
If using frozen salmon, not thawing it properly can result in a mushy texture or excess water in the pan while cooking.
The Fix:
- Thaw frozen salmon overnight in the fridge instead of microwaving it.
- If in a hurry, place frozen salmon in a sealed bag and submerge in cold water for 30-45 minutes.
- Pat the salmon dry before cooking to remove excess moisture.
Bonus Tip: Use a Cast Iron Pan for the Best Crispy Texture
If pan-searing, use a cast iron skillet with a bit of butter and olive oil to get crispy, golden-brown skin. This method enhances the texture and seals in moisture better than a non-stick pan.
Frequently Asked Questions
1️⃣ Overcooked salmon can turn dry quickly! To prevent this:
2️⃣ Use a meat thermometer – Salmon is perfectly cooked at 125-130°F (52-54°C) for medium and 140°F (60°C) for well-done.
3️⃣ Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket – This ensures even cooking.
4️⃣ Let the salmon rest for 2 minutes after cooking – This helps lock in the moisture.
Yes! If using frozen salmon, thaw it completely before seasoning and cooking. The best way to thaw salmon is by placing it in the refrigerator overnight. If you’re in a hurry, submerge it in cold water for about 30-45 minutes. Pat it dry before seasoning to ensure it crisps up in the air fryer.
Absolutely! If you prefer baking, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the salmon bites on a lined baking sheet for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through. For extra crispiness, broil for the last 2 minutes.
If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, you can replace mayo with:
Greek yogurt – Creamy with extra protein.
Avocado-based mayo – A healthier swap with a similar texture.
Cashew cream – A dairy-free, vegan option that’s still rich and smooth
Bang Bang Salmon is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
To reheat:
1️⃣ Air Fryer: Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 3-4 minutes.
2️⃣ Oven: Bake at 350°F for 5-6 minutes.
3️⃣ Stovetop: Sear on medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side.
Avoid microwaving if possible—it can make the salmon rubbery and dry.
Yes, you can freeze leftover Bang Bang Salmon bites, but there are a few things to keep in mind to maintain the best texture and flavor. Here’s how to do it properly:
How to Freeze Bang Bang Salmon Bites:
1️⃣ Let them cool completely – Avoid trapping steam, which can make them soggy.
2️⃣ Place in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3️⃣ Freeze for 1-2 hours until solid (this prevents them from sticking together).
4️⃣ Transfer to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag – Remove excess air to prevent freezer burn.
5️⃣ Label & store in the freezer for up to 2 months.
