These Bang Bang Salmon Bites are a bold and irresistible twist on a classic seafood dish. They feature juicy, tender cubes of salmon coated in a perfectly seasoned crispy shell, fried until golden brown. Tossed or drizzled with the signature bang bang sauce — a creamy, spicy, and slightly sweet blend of mayonnaise, sriracha, and sweet chili — each bite packs the perfect punch of flavor and texture.
Ideal for parties, game nights, or even a quick family dinner, these salmon bites are incredibly versatile and sure to impress. You can serve them over rice, pair them with a crunchy slaw, or plate them as a standalone appetizer. Whether you’re a seafood lover or simply craving something new and exciting, Bang Bang Salmon Bites are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Full Recipe
Ingredients:
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1 lb salmon, cut into bite-sized cubes
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1/2 cup buttermilk
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1/2 cup cornstarch
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1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
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1/2 tsp garlic powder
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1/2 tsp paprika
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Oil for frying
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
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1/4 cup mayonnaise
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2 tbsp sweet chili sauce
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1 tbsp sriracha
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1 tsp honey
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1/2 tsp rice vinegar
Directions:
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In a bowl, combine salmon pieces with buttermilk and marinate for 15 minutes.
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In another bowl, mix cornstarch, panko, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
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Remove salmon from the marinade, dredge each piece in the dry coating mixture, and set aside.
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Heat oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat.
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Fry salmon bites in batches for 2-3 minutes per side until golden and crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.
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In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and rice vinegar to make the Bang Bang Sauce.
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Toss the fried salmon bites with the sauce or drizzle on top before serving.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 390 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Introduction to Bang Bang Salmon Bites
Bang Bang Salmon Bites are a sensational twist on traditional seafood appetizers. Combining the richness of salmon with the bold, creamy heat of bang bang sauce, this dish delivers an explosion of flavor and texture that makes it an instant favorite for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or party platters. With a crispy golden coating on the outside and tender, flaky salmon inside, each bite is an exciting culinary experience. This dish bridges the gap between fast food indulgence and gourmet sophistication, offering the perfect balance of convenience and elevated taste.
Origins and Popularity of Bang Bang-Style Dishes
The “bang bang” concept gained fame through the popular Bang Bang Shrimp served at restaurant chains like Bonefish Grill. The name “bang bang” refers to the combination of spicy, creamy, and sweet flavors that create a powerful flavor punch. Over the years, this sauce and preparation style has been adapted to various proteins including chicken, tofu, and now — salmon. The spicy, creamy mayo-based sauce, often laced with chili and sriracha, makes everything it’s paired with more addictive. Incorporating salmon into this trend not only adds a healthy omega-3 rich option to the mix, but also elevates the dish’s elegance and nutritional value.
Why Salmon Works So Well
Salmon is a rich, fatty fish that lends itself beautifully to frying. Its firm flesh holds up well in bite-sized pieces, and its natural flavor complements bold sauces like bang bang. Salmon also absorbs marinades and coatings well, allowing for a crispy exterior while retaining a moist and juicy interior. Unlike some proteins that may dry out or become chewy during cooking, salmon stays tender, making it perfect for bite-sized, poppable appetizers.
The Perfect Crunch: Coating and Frying
What makes Bang Bang Salmon Bites stand out is their irresistibly crispy coating. By using a combination of cornstarch and panko breadcrumbs, the coating achieves a light, airy crunch that contrasts delightfully with the soft interior. The key is in balancing the ingredients: cornstarch helps crisp the surface quickly, while panko provides that classic crunch. Deep-frying or pan-frying these bites results in a golden crust that not only enhances the taste but also serves as the ideal canvas for the bang bang sauce.
The Star of the Show: Bang Bang Sauce
No discussion of this dish would be complete without diving into the sauce. Bang bang sauce is typically made from mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and a hint of sriracha or hot sauce. This creates a flavor profile that’s creamy, tangy, sweet, and just spicy enough to tingle the taste buds. It’s the perfect complement to the richness of salmon and the crunch of the coating. Some variations of the sauce may include honey, rice vinegar, or garlic for added depth. The sauce can be drizzled, tossed with the bites, or served on the side for dipping, making it versatile and customizable based on the occasion.
Health Benefits and Nutritional Profile
While this dish is indulgent, it also carries a good number of health benefits, especially thanks to the salmon. Salmon is packed with omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for brain health, heart health, and inflammation control. It’s also a great source of high-quality protein, B vitamins, and selenium. Even though the dish is fried, making it a more occasional indulgence, pairing it with a side of vegetables or serving it over a bed of greens can help balance the meal. For those looking to reduce calories or fat content, the salmon can be air-fried or baked instead.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Bang Bang Salmon Bites are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways. As an appetizer, they shine when arranged on a platter with toothpicks and a side of extra sauce for dipping. For a more substantial meal, they can be served over rice bowls, mixed greens, or slaw. They also work well as taco fillings or stuffed into wraps for a quick lunch. Garnishing with fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions adds a pop of color and freshness. You can also serve them alongside cucumber salad, pickled radishes, or avocado slices to balance the richness.
Tips for Perfecting the Dish
A few tips can ensure your Bang Bang Salmon Bites come out perfectly every time. First, make sure your salmon is cut into evenly sized cubes so they cook uniformly. Marinating the salmon in buttermilk or a light brine helps tenderize the fish and adds subtle flavor. When coating the salmon, press the breadcrumb mixture firmly to ensure maximum crunch. It’s also important to maintain the right oil temperature — around 350°F (175°C) — for frying, as this ensures the bites become golden without absorbing too much oil. Lastly, only toss the bites in sauce right before serving to maintain that irresistible crunch.
Make It Your Own: Customization Options
This recipe is easily adaptable for various dietary needs and flavor preferences. To reduce fat, consider baking or air-frying the salmon bites. If you’re avoiding gluten, use gluten-free panko and cornstarch alternatives. You can also dial up or down the spice in the bang bang sauce, depending on your heat tolerance. For a tropical twist, consider adding pineapple juice to the sauce or topping the salmon bites with a mango salsa. Vegetarians can even swap the salmon for tofu or cauliflower using the same preparation method and sauce.
Perfect for Entertaining and Everyday Meals
Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing game day snacks, or just looking for a fun family dinner, Bang Bang Salmon Bites deliver on all fronts. They’re easy to make in large batches, and the preparation process is straightforward enough that even beginner home cooks can master it quickly. Plus, the dish’s bold flavors and eye-catching presentation make it a surefire hit with both kids and adults alike. When served hot and crispy, they have that irresistible quality that keeps guests coming back for seconds.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers — which is rare with how delicious these are — they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, it’s best to use an oven or air fryer to restore their crispiness. Microwaving can make them soggy, so avoid it if you want to keep that crunchy texture intact. Reheating at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes should bring them back to life.
Conclusion
Bang Bang Salmon Bites are the perfect marriage of bold flavor, crunchy texture, and elegant presentation. They take the well-loved concept of bang bang sauce and apply it to a rich, tender protein that elevates the entire experience. Whether served as a snack, an appetizer, or part of a main course, these bites are sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation. With simple ingredients, quick preparation, and endless customization options, this dish not only satisfies cravings but also brings a touch of restaurant-style flair to your home kitchen. If you’re looking for something that’s easy to prepare yet impressive on the plate, Bang Bang Salmon Bites are the ultimate go-to.
Let this recipe inspire your next family dinner, party platter, or solo indulgence — and don’t forget to make extra sauce. You’ll need it.