Bang Bang Salmon (Air Fryer)

Introduction

Bang Bang Salmon is a delightful dish featuring crispy, bite-sized salmon pieces tossed in a bold and tangy sauce made from Thai sweet chili, sriracha, and lime juice. Prepared effortlessly in an air fryer, this recipe offers a perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors, making it an ideal choice for a quick yet impressive meal. ​

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With minimal preparation and cooking time, you can have a gourmet meal ready in under 30 minutes.​
• Healthier Option: Air frying provides a crispy texture without the need for excessive oil, making this dish a healthier alternative to traditional frying methods.​
• Flavorful: The combination of Thai sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and lime juice creates a harmonious blend of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors that complement the salmon perfectly.​

Ingredients

For the Salmon Bites:

• 1½ pounds salmon fillets (skin removed, cut into bite-sized pieces)​
• 1 tablespoon olive oil​
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder​
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika​
• ½ teaspoon salt​
• ½ teaspoon black pepper​
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)​

For the Bang Bang Sauce:

• ½ cup mayonnaise (Japanese mayonnaise preferred; Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute)​
• ¼ cup Thai sweet chili sauce
• 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce (adjust to taste)​
• 1 tablespoon honey​
• 1 tablespoon lime juice (freshly squeezed)​

Instructions

Prepare the Sauce

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, sriracha sauce, honey, and lime juice until well combined. Set aside.​Jo Cooks

Season the Salmon Bites

1. In a large bowl, combine the salmon pieces, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Toss gently to ensure the salmon is evenly coated with the seasonings.​Jo Cooks

Cook the Salmon

1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3 minutes.​Jo Cooks
2. Place the seasoned salmon bites in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Cook in batches if necessary.​Jo Cooks
3. Air fry the salmon bites for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the salmon is cooked through and crispy on the edges.​Jo Cooks

Serve the Salmon

1. Transfer the cooked salmon bites to a serving platter.​Jo Cooks
2. Drizzle the Bang Bang sauce over the salmon or serve it on the side for dipping.​Jo Cooks
3. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.​Jo Cooks

Possible Variations

• Spice Level Adjustment: Modify the amount of sriracha and cayenne pepper to suit your heat preference.​Jo Cooks
• Alternative Proteins: This recipe can be adapted using chicken or shrimp in place of salmon.​
• Baking Option: If you don’t have an air fryer, bake the salmon bites in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, turning halfway through.​

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4​
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes​
• Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes​
• Total Time: Approximately 25 minutes​Jo Cooks

Storage and Reheating Instructions

• Storage: Store any leftover salmon bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.​Jo Cooks+2Jo Cooks+2Jo Cooks+2
• Freezing: To freeze, place the cooked salmon bites (without sauce) in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.​Jo Cooks
• Reheating: To reheat, thaw the salmon bites in the refrigerator overnight if frozen. Reheat in an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.​Jo Cooks

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when the salmon is cooked through?

The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).​Jo Cooks+1Jo Cooks+1

Can I prepare the Bang Bang sauce ahead of time?

Yes, the sauce can be made in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.​

Is it necessary to remove the skin from the salmon?

Yes, for this recipe, it’s recommended to use skinless salmon to ensure even cooking and optimal texture.​

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, but ensure the salmon is fully thawed and patted dry before seasoning and cooking.​

What can I serve alongside Bang Bang Salmon?

This dish pairs well with jasmine rice, avocado salad, or a simple tossed salad.​Jo Cooks

How can I make the sauce less spicy?

Reduce the amount of sriracha in the sauce to lower the heat level.​Jo Cooks

Can I cook the salmon in a conventional oven?

Yes, bake the salmon bites in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, turning halfway through.​

Is there a substitute for Thai sweet chili sauce?

You can make a homemade version by combining honey, vinegar, garlic, and red pepper flakes, or use another sweet and spicy sauce of your choice.

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