Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites are little pieces of tender salmon wrapped in a crunchy coating and tossed in a creamy, spicy sauce that just wakes up your taste buds. The outside is perfectly crispy, while the inside stays soft and flaky, making every bite a fun mix of textures and flavors.
I love making these for a quick snack or as an appetizer when friends come over. The spicy sauce has just the right kick to keep things exciting without being too hot, and I find that dipping them in a little extra sauce is the best way to enjoy every bite. Plus, they’re easy to eat with your fingers, which is always a bonus in my book.
These salmon bites always bring a smile to our table because they feel special without needing a lot of fuss. I like serving them with a simple side salad or some steamed veggies for a little balance. If you’re looking for something crispy, creamy, and a little spicy, these Bang Bang Salmon Bites might just become your new go-to snack.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillet is best for tender, flaky bites. If you can’t find fresh, frozen works too—just thaw carefully. You can also swap salmon for trout or cod if preferred.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These give a light, crispy crust that’s key here. If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs will work but expect a little less crunch.
Bang Bang Sauce: Mayonnaise and sweet chili sauce create the creamy, sweet base. Use Sriracha to add just the right spice—adjust based on your heat preference. For a lighter version, try Greek yogurt instead of mayo.
How Do I Get the Salmon Bites Crispy Without Overcooking?
Cooking salmon bites perfectly means crisp outside and juicy inside. Here’s how:
- Pat salmon dry to help coating stick and avoid sogginess.
- Heat oil in a skillet until shimmering but not smoking to get a golden crust fast.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if needed so bites fry evenly.
- Cook 2-3 minutes per side—salmon cooks fast, so check for an opaque center but still moist.
- Drain on paper towels to keep crispness before serving with sauce.
This method keeps bites crunchy outside, tender inside, and makes cleanup easier too!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Nonstick or cast-iron skillet – perfect for frying the salmon bites evenly and getting a crisp crust.
- Three shallow bowls – great for setting up your breading station with flour, eggs, and panko breadcrumbs.
- Whisk – handy for mixing the Bang Bang sauce until smooth and creamy.
- Tongs or a slotted spoon – helps you turn and remove salmon bites without breaking the coating.
- Paper towels – essential for draining excess oil to keep the bites crispy.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap salmon for firm white fish like cod or halibut for a milder flavor that’s still great with the spicy sauce.
- Add a pinch of smoked paprika or Old Bay seasoning to the panko for a smoky, savory twist.
- Mix in finely chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or basil into the Bang Bang sauce for a fresh herbal note.
- Top with toasted sesame seeds or chopped peanuts for extra crunch and a nutty flavor.
Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Salmon Bites:
- 1 lb (450 g) salmon fillet, skin removed and cut into bite-sized cubes
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil, for frying
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh chives or green onions, for garnish
For The Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp sweet chili sauce
- 1-2 tsp sriracha sauce (adjust to your preferred spice level)
- 1 tsp lime juice
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 10 minutes to cook. In just 25 minutes, you’ll have a delicious batch of crispy salmon bites ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salmon:
Pat the salmon pieces dry with paper towels so the coating sticks well. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
2. Set Up the Breading Station:
Get three shallow bowls ready: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs.
3. Coat the Salmon:
Take each salmon cube and coat it first in flour, then dip in the eggs, and finally press into the panko breadcrumbs until fully covered. Put the coated pieces on a plate.
4. Make the Bang Bang Sauce:
Mix mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, lime juice, and garlic powder together in a small bowl until smooth. Taste and add more sriracha if you like it spicier.
5. Cook the Salmon Bites:
Heat the oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Arrange the salmon bites in a single layer without crowding the pan. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy, ensuring the salmon is cooked inside.
6. Drain and Serve:
Remove the salmon bites with tongs and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil. Arrange on a serving plate, drizzle with the Bang Bang sauce or serve it on the side for dipping. Sprinkle chopped chives or green onions over the top for a fresh touch.
7. Enjoy!
Serve the salmon bites immediately while they’re hot and crispy for the best taste.
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw the salmon completely in the refrigerator overnight before starting. Pat it dry well to ensure the coating sticks and the bites get crispy.
How Can I Make These Salmon Bites Healthier?
Try baking the coated salmon bites at 400°F (200°C) for about 12-15 minutes instead of frying. This reduces oil use while still giving you a nice crispy texture.
Can I Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! The sauce can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the fridge. Just give it a good stir before serving.
How Should I Store Leftover Salmon Bites?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm them gently in an oven or toaster oven to help maintain crispiness.
