Description
These Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon Bites are crispy, flavorful, and perfectly bite-sized, making them an easy and delicious appetizer or snack. Coated in a seasoned panko crust and air fried to golden perfection, they’re served with a creamy, spicy bang bang sauce that balances sweet chili, sriracha, and a hint of honey for an irresistible kick.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Salmon Bites
- 1 lb (450 g) salmon fillet, skinless, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Cooking spray
For the Bang Bang Sauce
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp sweet chili sauce
- 1 tbsp sriracha (adjust for spice preference)
- 1 tsp honey (optional)
Optional Garnish
- Chopped green onions
- Sesame seeds
Instructions
- Prepare the Salmon Bites: Pat the salmon cubes dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture; this helps the coating stick better.
- Set up the Dredging Station: Arrange three bowls: bowl one with flour, bowl two with beaten eggs, and bowl three with panko breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Coat the Salmon: Dredge each salmon cube first in flour, then dip into the beaten eggs, and finally coat thoroughly with the seasoned panko breadcrumbs, pressing lightly so the coating adheres well.
- Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3-5 minutes to ensure even cooking and crisp texture.
- Arrange Salmon Bites: Place the coated salmon cubes in a single layer inside the air fryer basket, making sure they don’t overlap to allow hot air circulation.
- Apply Cooking Spray: Lightly spray the tops of the salmon bites with cooking spray to enhance browning and crispness.
- Air Fry: Cook for 7-10 minutes, flipping the salmon bites halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
- Make Bang Bang Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and honey until smooth and well combined.
- Serve: Drizzle the bang bang sauce over the salmon bites or serve it on the side as a dipping sauce.
- Add Garnish (Optional): Sprinkle chopped green onions and sesame seeds on top for added flavor and presentation.
Notes
- Make sure to pat the salmon dry before coating to achieve maximum crispiness.
- Adjust the amount of sriracha in the bang bang sauce to control the spice level to your preference.
- Use a cooking spray that withstands high heat for best results.
- If you don’t have an air fryer, you can bake these in a conventional oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days; reheat in the air fryer for best texture.
