Description
Crispy and flavorful Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon Bites feature tender salmon cubes coated in seasoned panko breadcrumbs, air fried to golden perfection, and served with a creamy, spicy bang bang sauce. This quick and easy recipe makes a delightful appetizer or snack with a perfect balance of crunchy texture and bold flavors.
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)
Instructions
- Prepare the Salmon Bites: Pat the salmon cubes dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture, which helps the coating adhere better during cooking.
- Set up the dredging station: Arrange three bowls: Bowl 1 with all-purpose flour, Bowl 2 with beaten eggs, and Bowl 3 with panko breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Coat the Salmon: Dredge each salmon cube first in the flour, then dip into the beaten eggs, and finally coat evenly with the seasoned panko breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to ensure the crust sticks well.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3-5 minutes to ensure even and crispy cooking.
- Arrange and Cook: Place the coated salmon bites in a single layer in the air fryer basket without overlapping. Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray to help with browning.
- Air Fry the Salmon: Cook for 7-10 minutes, flipping the bites halfway through to achieve an even golden and crispy exterior. The salmon should be cooked through but tender inside.
- Make Bang Bang Sauce: While the salmon cooks, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and honey in a small bowl until smooth and well combined.
- Serve: Drizzle the bang bang sauce over the cooked salmon bites or serve it on the side as a dipping sauce for added flavor.
- Optional Garnish: Sprinkle chopped green onions or sesame seeds over the salmon bites to add color and extra taste if desired.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, do not overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches if needed.
- Adjust the amount of sriracha in the sauce to suit your preferred spice level.
- Ensure salmon is cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption.
- Can be served as appetizer, snack, or light meal paired with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables.
- The honey in the sauce is optional but adds a nice balance to the spicy and tangy flavors.
