Description
This Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon Bites recipe offers a deliciously crispy and flavorful salmon appetizer or snack. The salmon bites are seasoned with a blend of paprika, garlic powder, and spices, air fried to perfection, and coated with a creamy, spicy-sweet Bang Bang sauce made from mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey. Ready in just 20 minutes, this recipe is ideal for a quick yet impressive dish that balances heat and sweetness with tender, flaky salmon.
Ingredients
Salmon Bites
- 1 ½ pounds salmon (about 4 filets), skins removed, cut into 1-inch bites
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Bang Bang Sauce
- 1 cup (232 g) mayonnaise
- ½ cup (132 g) Thai sweet chili sauce
- 2 teaspoons Sriracha (or more to taste)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- Chives, finely chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 390°F (199°C). This ensures the salmon bites cook evenly and develop a crispy exterior.
- Season the Salmon: In a large bowl, combine olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper. Add the salmon bites and gently toss until each piece is evenly coated with the seasoning mixture.
- Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce: In a separate bowl, mix together mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey until smooth and well combined. Reserve half of the sauce for serving.
- Coat Salmon with Sauce: Toss the seasoned salmon bites with half of the prepared Bang Bang sauce to ensure each piece is thoroughly coated.
- Air Fry Salmon Bites: Arrange the salmon bites in a single layer in the air fryer basket without overcrowding. Air fry for 4-5 minutes, then carefully flip each piece and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes. The salmon should be cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 140-145°F (60-63°C).
- Finish and Serve: Transfer the cooked salmon bites to a serving plate. Drizzle with the reserved Bang Bang sauce and garnish with finely chopped chives. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket to allow even cooking and crispiness.
- Adjust the amount of Sriracha in the Bang Bang sauce according to your preferred spice level.
- Check the internal temperature of the salmon bites with a food thermometer to ensure safety and optimal doneness.
- Leftover sauce can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.
- Salmon with skin removed ensures even cooking and a better texture for bites.