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Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon Recipe | Crispy & Spicy

I have to admit, the first time I made this Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon Recipe, I was amazed at how fast and flavorful it turned out. The salmon is perfectly tender on the inside with a sweet and spicy bang bang sauce that makes every bite irresistible. I love that it’s ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Plus, it’s easy to customize depending on how spicy or sweet you like it. You can also enjoy similar sweet treats like Cherry Snowball Cookies Recipe alongside your meal for a fun dessert pairing. Let me walk you through this simple, delicious recipe step by step.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this flavorful Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon. I’ve included tips for getting the best results.

Salmon

1 ½ pounds salmon (about 4 filets, skin removed, cut into 1-inch pieces) – I prefer fresh, wild-caught salmon for the best flavor.
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil – helps the seasonings stick and keeps salmon moist.
1 teaspoon paprika – adds a smoky depth without overpowering the fish.
1 teaspoon garlic powder – enhances natural salmon flavor.
1 teaspoon kosher salt – use kosher for more even seasoning.
½ teaspoon black pepper – freshly ground for better aroma.

Bang Bang Sauce

1 cup mayonnaise – provides the creamy texture that balances the heat. I like making mine from scratch, but store-bought works too.
½ cup Thai sweet chili sauce – adds sweetness and mild spice. Look for brands with minimal preservatives.
2 teaspoons Sriracha – adjust to taste depending on your heat preference.
2 tablespoons honey – naturally balances the sauce’s tang and heat.
Chives, for garnish – adds a fresh, mild onion flavor and bright color.

Note: several servings

Variations

This recipe is versatile and can be adjusted to suit dietary preferences:

Dairy-free: Use vegan mayonnaise.
Lower sugar: Substitute honey with agave syrup or a sugar-free alternative.
Extra spicy: Add 1 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes or more Sriracha.
Citrus twist: Squeeze a bit of fresh lime over the finished salmon for added brightness.

Cooking Time

Here’s a quick overview of how long it takes to make this dish:

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Equipment You Need

Air fryer – cooks salmon quickly and evenly.
Large mixing bowl – for tossing salmon with seasonings.
Small mixing bowl – for combining bang bang sauce ingredients.
Measuring spoons and cups – ensures accurate flavor balance.
Knife and cutting board – for cutting salmon into even bites.

How to Make Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon Recipe

Preheat and Prepare Salmon

Start by preheating your air fryer to 390°F. In a large bowl, mix olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss the salmon pieces gently to coat evenly without breaking them.

Make the Bang Bang Sauce

In a separate bowl, combine mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey. Stir until smooth. Pour half into another bowl and set aside to drizzle over cooked salmon later. You might also enjoy a refreshing drink like a Virgin Mojito alongside this dish for a complete meal experience.

Coat and Air Fry

Toss the seasoned salmon pieces in the remaining sauce. Place them in the air fryer basket in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd. Air fry for 4–5 minutes, flip, and cook another 4–5 minutes until the salmon reaches 140–145°F internally.

Serve and Garnish

Transfer salmon to a serving plate and drizzle with the reserved bang bang sauce. Sprinkle chopped chives on top for color and added flavor.

Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better

From my experience, small tweaks make a huge difference:

I always use fresh salmon; frozen can be used but needs to be fully thawed.
Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket; it helps the salmon crisp up perfectly.
I like to taste the sauce before adding it to adjust sweetness or spice.
For extra crunch, lightly coat salmon bites with panko before air frying.
Serve immediately after cooking to keep the salmon tender and juicy.

How to Serve Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon

This dish is versatile and fun to serve:

Over a bed of steamed white or brown rice.
Threaded onto skewers as kebabs for a party appetizer.
On top of a fresh green salad for a light meal.
In lettuce wraps with extra sauce for a low-carb option.
As sliders on mini rolls with lettuce and tomato for casual gatherings.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick snapshot of the nutrition per 6-ounce serving:

Calories: 821 kcal – packed with flavor and energy.
Protein: 38 g – excellent source of high-quality protein.
Carbohydrates: 16 g – mainly from the sweet chili sauce and honey.
Fat: 62 g – healthy fats from salmon and mayonnaise.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing: Leftover salmon bites can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days.

Freezing: I usually freeze cooked salmon in meal-sized portions. Wrap tightly and place in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

Reheating: Reheat gently in an air fryer or oven at 350°F for 3–5 minutes to maintain texture without drying out the salmon.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why this recipe is a keeper:

Quick and easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy nights.
Flavorful: Sweet, spicy, and creamy all at once; you’ll crave it again.
Versatile: Works as a main dish, appetizer, or part of a party spread.
Customizable: Adjust spice, sweetness, and garnish to suit your taste.
Healthy option: Rich in protein and omega-3s while staying satisfying.

With its vibrant sauce and tender salmon, this Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon is sure to become a favorite in your household. It’s quick, delicious, and perfect for any occasion, from a simple weeknight dinner to a weekend gathering.

Ben Carraoli