Air-Fried Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

Have you ever craved a dish that’s both crispy and bursting with flavor but still healthy? Meet your new favourite: Air-Fried Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites. This delightful recipe combines the crunchiness of air-fried salmon with a tangy, slightly spicy Bang Bang sauce. It’s perfect for those who love quick, easy, and nutritious meals. Imagine the satisfaction of biting into a crispy piece of salmon that’s perfectly seasoned and drizzled with a luscious sauce—sounds heavenly, right? Let’s dive in and discover how you can whip up this crowd-pleaser quickly!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: Ready in just 25 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
Healthy: Air-frying cuts down on oil, making this a lighter option.
Flavorful: The Bang Bang sauce adds a tangy, spicy kick.
Versatile: Great as a main dish or an appetizer.
Kid-Friendly: The mild spice is appealing to younger palates.
Minimal Cleanup: The air fryer keeps things tidy and oil-free.
Customizable: Easily adjust the spice level to your preference.

Nutrition Information:

Serving Size: 1/4 of the recipe
Calories: 320
Sugar: 8g
Sodium: 580mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 13g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 22g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 22g
Cholesterol: 75mg

Ingredients:

1 lb salmon fillet, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs, beaten
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
Cooking spray

Bang Bang Sauce:

1/4 cup mayonnaise
2 tbsp sweet chilli sauce
1 tbsp sriracha
1 tbsp honey
1 tsp lime juice

Ingredients and Substitutions

Salmon: Use fresh or frozen (thawed) salmon. For a budget-friendly option, try tilapia or cod.
Panko Breadcrumbs: Provide extra crunch. Substitute with regular breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes.
Bang Bang Sauce: Mayo base can be swapped with Greek yogurt for a healthier twist. Adjust the sriracha to control the heat.

How to Make Air-Fried Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites (Step-by-Step)

Prepare the Salmon: Cut the salmon into bite-sized pieces and season.
Set Up Breading Station: Arrange flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs in separate bowls.
Bread the Salmon: Coat each piece in flour, egg, and breadcrumbs.
Air Fry: Arrange the salmon in a single layer in the air fryer basket and cook at 400°F for 8-10 minutes.
Prepare the Sauce: Mix all sauce ingredients in a bowl while the salmon cooks.
Serve: Drizzle the Bang Bang sauce over the crispy salmon bites and enjoy!

Expert Tips for Success

Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: This ensures even cooking and crispiness.
Preheat the Air Fryer: It helps achieve a perfectly crispy exterior.
Use Fresh Salmon: Fresh fish yields better flavor and texture.
Double Dipping: For extra crunch, double dip in egg and breadcrumbs.
Rest the Salmon: Let the coated salmon sit for a few minutes before air frying to help the coating adhere.

Variations and Customizations

Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour.
Low-Carb: Substitute breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds.
Spicy Kick: Add more sriracha to the sauce for extra heat.
Herbed: Mix fresh herbs like dill or parsley into the breadcrumbs.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 5 minutes to retain crispiness.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad.
Serve with rice or quinoa for a heartier meal.
Enjoy as a party appetizer with extra Bang Bang sauce for dipping.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use frozen salmon? Yes, but thaw it completely before using it.
What can I use instead of an air fryer? Bake at 425°F for 15-20 minutes until crispy.
How do I adjust the spice level? Increase or decrease the sriracha in the Bang Bang sauce.
Can I make this ahead of time? Yes, you can prep the salmon bites and refrigerate before air frying.
What other fish can I use? Cod, tilapia, or halibut work well.
Is there a dairy-free option for the sauce? Use vegan mayo instead of regular mayonnaise.
Can I use a different sauce? Yes, try teriyaki, tartar, or garlic aioli.
How do I prevent the coating from falling off? Ensure the salmon is dry before breading and let it rest before air frying.
What can I serve with these bites? They pair well with various sides like rice, salad, or veggies.
How do I make them extra crispy? Spray a bit more cooking spray and cook for an additional 2 minutes.

Air-Fried Crispy Chicken Tenders
Spicy Air-Fried Shrimp
Garlic Butter Air-Fried Tilapia
Bang Bang Cauliflower Bites
Honey Sriracha Air-Fried Wings

Conclusion

Air-Fried Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites are a game-changer in the kitchen. They’re quick, healthy, and flavor-packed—a perfect addition to your recipe repertoire. Whether you’re whipping up a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, this dish will impress. So, grab your air fryer and get ready to enjoy a deliciously crispy, f

Classic Bang Bang Salmon Bites Recipe