Bang Bang Salmon Bites

My friend Sarah brought these to a summer potluck and I ate seven before realizing I should probably leave some for the actual guests. The way that creamy, sweet-spicy sauce clings to crispy, golden salmon creates something entirely addictive. I've been making them weekly ever since, and my family actually cheers when they smell the sauce being whisked together.

Last Tuesday, my husband walked through the door and immediately asked what smelled so incredible. The sizzling sound of salmon hitting the hot skillet has become one of my favorite kitchen signals. We ended up standing at the counter eating them straight from the plate instead of sitting down like civilized humans.

Ingredients

• 1 pound salmon fillets: Fresh, wild-caught salmon gives the best flavor and texture for these bites
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps the spices adhere and promotes beautiful golden browning
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Distributes garlic flavor evenly without burning like fresh garlic might
• ½ teaspoon onion powder: Adds a subtle savory backbone that complements the salmon
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika: Brings a gorgeous color and subtle smoky depth
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper: Optional heat for those who like a little kick behind the sweetness
• Salt and black pepper: Essential seasoning that amplifies all other flavors
• ¼ cup mayonnaise: Creates the silky, creamy base for the bang bang sauce
• 2 tablespoons Thai sweet chili sauce: The signature sweet element that makes this sauce irresistible
• 1 teaspoon sriracha: Adds gentle heat and another layer of flavor complexity
• 1 teaspoon honey: Balances the heat and helps the sauce cling perfectly to each bite
• ½ teaspoon lime juice: Cuts through the richness and adds bright, fresh acidity

Instructions

Prep the salmon:

Cut your salmon into uniform 1-inch cubes so they cook evenly and all achieve that perfect golden crust at the same time.

Season generously:

Toss the salmon cubes with olive oil and all the spices until every piece is evenly coated and fragrant.

Sear to perfection:

Crank your skillet to medium-high heat and let it get properly hot before adding the salmon, then cook for 2-3 minutes per side until beautifully browned.

Crisp it up:

Finish in a 400°F oven or air fryer for that extra crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender and flaky.

Whisk the magic:

Combine mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and lime juice until completely smooth and taste to adjust the heat level.

Bring it together:

Toss the warm, crispy salmon bites with the sauce until each piece is generously coated and serve while still hot.

Save

These became our anniversary dinner tradition after I made them on a whim during our first year of marriage. There's something celebratory about food you can eat with your fingers while laughing together at the kitchen island.

Make-Ahead Magic

I've learned that the sauce keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to a week, often getting better as the flavors meld together. Sometimes I double the sauce batch just to have it ready for quick weeknight meals.

Perfect Pairings

Cool cucumber salad or steamed jasmine rice provide the perfect neutral canvas for these bold, spicy bites. Lettuce wraps make everything feel lighter while still delivering all that incredible flavor.

Sauce Mastery

The secret to restaurant-quality bang bang sauce is letting it sit for at least 15 minutes after whisking. This allows the sweet chili sauce to fully bloom and meld with the mayonnaise and sriracha.

• Taste your sauce before adding it to the salmon
• Adjust sweetness with more honey if needed
• Remember that the heat will intensify as it sits

Save

Every time I make these, I'm reminded that the most memorable recipes are often the simplest ones done with love and attention to detail.

Kitchen Guide

→ What does bang bang sauce taste like?

Bang bang sauce combines creamy mayonnaise with sweet Thai chili sauce and spicy sriracha, creating a balanced flavor profile that's rich, slightly sweet, and gently spicy with a tangy finish from lime juice.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

The salmon is best served immediately after coating with sauce to maintain its crispy texture. However, you can prepare the sauce up to 3 days in advance and store it refrigerated in an airtight container.

→ What's the best way to get crispy salmon?

For maximum crispiness, sear the salmon cubes first to develop a golden crust, then finish in the oven or air fryer. This two-step method ensures perfectly cooked fish with satisfying crunch.

→ Can I adjust the spice level?

Absolutely. Reduce or omit the sriracha and cayenne for a milder version, or increase both ingredients for more heat. The sweet chili sauce provides a nice balance to the spicy elements.

→ What should I serve with salmon bites?

These versatile pieces work well over steamed rice, alongside a fresh salad, wrapped in lettuce cups for a low-carb option, or simply enjoyed as an appetizer with toothpicks for easy serving.