Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon Bites
Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon Bites are crispy, spicy, and creamy salmon nuggets made quickly and easily in an air fryer. Perfect as a snack or appetizer, these bites combine tender salmon coated with panko breadcrumbs and tossed in a flavorful bang bang sauce that balances heat, sweetness, and tang. Healthy, kid-friendly, and versatile, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights or entertaining guests.
- Author: Emilly
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free (if using gluten-free panko or alternatives)
Salmon Bites
- Fresh salmon fillets, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Pinch of salt
- Olive oil spray
Bang Bang Sauce
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1–2 tablespoons sriracha sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon fresh lime juice
- Prepare the Salmon: Cut fresh salmon fillets into 1-inch bite-sized cubes, then pat dry thoroughly with paper towels to help the coating stick better.
- Set Up a Dredging Station: In one bowl, beat the egg. In another bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs with garlic powder and a pinch of salt for seasoning.
- Coat the Salmon Bites: Dip each salmon cube first into the beaten egg, then roll it in the seasoned panko mixture until fully coated. Place coated pieces on a plate or tray.
- Air Fry to Perfection: Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray salmon bites with olive oil for crispiness. Arrange in a single layer in the air fryer basket, cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and cooked through.
- Make the Bang Bang Sauce: While salmon cooks, whisk together mayonnaise, sriracha, honey (or maple syrup), and lime juice until smooth and creamy. Adjust sriracha for desired spice.
- Toss and Serve: Once salmon bites are cooked, gently toss them in the bang bang sauce until evenly coated. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Dry salmon thoroughly before breading to ensure coating sticks and crisps well.
- Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket; arrange bites in a single layer for even cooking.
- Use fresh panko breadcrumbs for the best crunch and texture.
- If bang bang sauce is too thick, add a teaspoon of water or lime juice to thin it out.
- Flip bites gently with tongs or a spatula to avoid breaking the pieces.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 6-8 bites)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: salmon bites, air fryer salmon, bang bang sauce, appetizer, snack, seafood recipe, crispy salmon, healthy appetizers, kid-friendly seafood