Homemade Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites: Easy Recipe!

Homemade Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites are an absolute game-changer in the kitchen, and I am incredibly excited to share this irresistible recipe with you today. Imagine: perfectly golden, impossibly crispy pieces of tender salmon, each bite enveloped in a vibrant, creamy, and subtly spicy Bang Bang sauce. It’s a symphony of textures and flavors that promises to elevate any meal from ordinary to extraordinary, making it a truly memorable culinary experience.

The “Bang Bang” moniker itself hints at the exciting punch of flavor, often tracing its roots to Szechuan cuisine’s “Bang Bang Chicken,” characterized by its distinctive, vibrant dressing and a preparation method that traditionally involves “banging” the chicken to tenderize it. While our salmon version offers a contemporary twist, it carries forward that same spirit of bold, unforgettable taste and captivating texture. People absolutely adore this dish not just for its incredible taste – that perfect balance of sweet, savory, and a hint of heat – but also for its delightful textural contrast. The exterior crunch gives way to succulent, flaky salmon, all harmonized by that velvety, tangy sauce. Whether served as a show-stopping appetizer for guests or as a fun, flavorful main course for a weeknight dinner, these Homemade Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites are guaranteed to be a hit, proving that gourmet flavors are well within reach for the home cook.

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Homemade Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites:
  • 1.5 lbs skinless salmon fillets, preferably center-cut and of even thickness for uniform cooking. I find that a good quality salmon makes all the difference in flavor and texture.
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour. This forms the base of our crispy coating.
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch. My secret weapon for achieving an extra-crispy exterior that truly stands out.
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder. Essential for adding a foundational savory depth.
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder. Complements the garlic powder perfectly.
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika. Provides a lovely color and a subtle smoky undertone that enhances the salmon.
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, but highly recommended if you enjoy a little gentle heat in your bites!).
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt. Crucial for seasoning the coating properly.
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Adds a touch of classic spice.
  • 2 large eggs, beaten. This will be our binder, helping the coating adhere beautifully to the salmon.
  • 3-4 cups neutral oil for frying (such as canola, vegetable, or peanut oil). You’ll need enough to reach a depth of 2-3 inches in your frying pot or Dutch oven, ensuring proper submersion for even crisping.
• For the Irresistible Bang Bang Sauce:
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise. Full-fat mayonnaise is my preference here, as it provides the creamiest and most luxurious base for the sauce.
  • 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce. This provides a fantastic balance of sweetness and a mild kick.
  • 2 tablespoons Sriracha. This is where the “bang” comes from! Feel free to adjust this amount to perfectly match your desired level of spice.
  • 1 tablespoon honey or agave nectar. Adds a lovely, natural sweetness and helps to give the sauce a beautiful glaze.
  • 1 teaspoon rice vinegar or fresh lime juice. A splash of acidity is key to cutting through the richness and brightening the overall flavor of the sauce.
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional, but I often include it for an extra layer of savory depth in the sauce).
• For Garnish (Optional, but highly recommended for presentation and flavor):
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh green onions. Adds a pop of color and a fresh, mild oniony bite.
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (toasted or plain). These add a lovely nutty flavor and a professional finish.

Preparing the Salmon

1. Prepare the Salmon Fillets: First things first, let’s get our beautiful salmon ready for its transformation into Homemade Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites. Take your 1.5 lbs of skinless salmon fillets and gently rinse them under cold, running water. This helps ensure they’re perfectly clean and removes any loose scales or debris. After rinsing, place them on a clean plate or cutting board.
2. Pat Dry Thoroughly: This step is arguably the most crucial for achieving those incredibly crispy, golden-brown results we’re aiming for. Lay the salmon fillets on a cutting board lined with several sheets of paper towel. Then, using more paper towels, gently but firmly pat every single surface of the salmon dry. You want to remove as much moisture as humanly possible from the exterior. Why is this so important? Excess moisture on the salmon surface will cause it to steam in the hot oil instead of crisping up, leading to a soggy coating. It can also cause the hot oil to splatter more violently, which we definitely want to avoid for safety! So, please, take your time here; a truly dry salmon surface is the undisputed secret to a truly golden, crunchy exterior.
3. Cut into Bites: Once thoroughly dried, transfer the salmon to a clean cutting board. Using a very sharp knife, carefully cut the salmon into uniform 1-inch to 1.5-inch cubes or bite-sized pieces. The goal here is consistency in size. Try to make them as evenly sized as possible because this ensures that all the salmon bites will cook at the same rate, preventing some from being overcooked while others are still underdone. This uniformity is absolutely key for perfect frying and even more perfect eating!
4. Season the Salmon: Place the cut salmon bites into a medium-sized bowl. Sprinkle them lightly with just a pinch of salt and black pepper. We’re just giving them a foundational seasoning at this stage; the main flavor punch will come from our wonderfully seasoned coating. Gently toss the salmon pieces to coat them evenly with the salt and pepper. Now, set this bowl aside while you move on to setting up your dredging station – we’re building layers of deliciousness!

Crafting the Crispy Coating

1. Prepare the Dry Mixture: In a shallow dish or a wide, shallow bowl – ideally one that allows for easy dredging of the salmon pieces – combine all the dry ingredients. This includes the 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup cornstarch, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (if you’re opting for that delightful hint of heat!), 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Using a whisk, thoroughly combine all these ingredients together. You want a perfectly homogeneous mixture so that every single bite of our Homemade Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites gets the full, balanced flavor profile. The cornstarch, as mentioned earlier, is our little secret for that exceptional, shatteringly crispy texture, making these salmon bites truly spectacular.
2. Prepare the Egg Wash: In a separate shallow dish or bowl, crack your 2 large eggs. Lightly beat them with a fork or a small whisk until the yolks and whites are fully combined and there are no visible streaks. This egg wash is going to act as the “glue” for our dry coating, helping it adhere beautifully and evenly to the salmon pieces. It’s a vital step for ensuring a robust crust.
3. Set Up Your Dredging Station: Organisation is your friend here! Arrange your bowls in a logical assembly line fashion: first, your bowl of seasoned salmon bites; next, your bowl of beaten egg wash; and finally, your shallow dish with the dry flour mixture. This organized setup will make the entire coating process smooth, efficient, and much less messy. A pro tip I always use: designate one hand as your “wet hand” (for handling the egg-coated salmon) and the other as your “dry hand” (for handling the flour mixture). This helps prevent clumpy, doughy fingers and keeps the process clean.
4. Coat the Salmon Bites: Working in small batches – typically about 5-7 pieces at a time to prevent overcrowding – carefully pick up a piece of salmon with your designated “wet hand.” Dip it into the egg wash, ensuring it’s fully coated on all sides. Allow any excess egg to drip off briefly back into the bowl. You want a thin, even layer, not a glob.
5. Transfer to Dry Mixture: Immediately transfer the egg-washed salmon piece into the dry flour mixture using your “dry hand.” Now, gently toss and press the salmon piece in the flour mixture to ensure it is completely covered from all sides. Make absolutely sure there are no bare spots – every surface should be coated evenly. This first layer is critical.
6. Double Dip for Extra Crispiness (Optional but Highly Recommended!): For truly spectacular, restaurant-quality Homemade Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites, I wholeheartedly recommend a second dip! Carefully lift the salmon piece from the dry mixture, dip it back into the egg wash (using your wet hand), let any excess drip off, and then return it to the dry mixture for a second thorough coating (using your dry hand). This double layer creates an incredibly thick, wonderfully textured, and satisfyingly crunchy crust that will hold up beautifully, even when tossed in our delicious sauce. It’s worth the extra minute!
7. Repeat and Rest: As each salmon bite is double-coated, gently transfer it to a clean plate or, even better, a wire rack set over a baking sheet. Make sure not to overcrowd the plate or rack; leave a little space between each piece to prevent them from sticking together. Continue this precise process until all your salmon pieces are perfectly coated. Once all are coated, let them rest on the counter for about 10-15 minutes. This brief resting period is another small but significant step; it allows the coating to hydrate and adhere even more securely to the salmon, significantly minimizing the chance of it falling off during the frying process. This seemingly minor step truly makes a big difference in the final texture and appearance of your crispy bites.

Frying the Salmon Bites to Golden Perfection

1. Heat the Oil: In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, Dutch oven, or deep fryer, pour in your 3-4 cups of neutral oil. The depth of the oil is important; you want it to be deep enough to submerge at least half, if not all, of your salmon bites – typically 2-3 inches deep is ideal. Place the pot over medium-high heat. Using a heavy-bottomed pot helps maintain a consistent oil temperature, which is essential for successful frying.
2. Achieve the Right Temperature: This step is perhaps the most critical for achieving truly crispy results without overcooking the delicate salmon. Heat the oil until it reaches a consistent temperature of 350-375°F (175-190°C). If you have a deep-fry thermometer, this is the time to use it – it’s an invaluable tool here. If you don’t have a thermometer, you can test the oil by dropping a tiny pinch of your flour mixture into it. If it sizzles vigorously, bubbles immediately, and floats to the top, your oil is ready. If it just sinks or barely bubbles, it’s not hot enough. If it browns too quickly, the oil is too hot and needs to cool slightly. Maintaining this precise temperature range is absolutely key for creating perfectly golden, Homemade Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites.
3. Fry in Batches: Carefully, using a pair of long tongs or a slotted spoon, gently lower a few of your coated salmon bites into the hot oil. This requires a little caution, so be mindful of hot oil splatters. A crucial rule for frying: do not overcrowd the pan! Frying too many pieces at once will cause the oil temperature to drop drastically, leading to greasy, less crispy salmon and a longer cooking time. Fry in small batches, leaving plenty of space between the pieces. I usually aim for about 6-8 pieces per batch, depending on the size of my pot, to ensure even cooking and maximum crispiness.
4. Monitor and Flip: Allow the salmon bites to fry for approximately 3-4 minutes, or until they reach a beautiful, rich golden brown color and are gloriously crispy on all sides. Use your tongs to gently turn them periodically to ensure even cooking and browning all around. Salmon cooks relatively quickly, especially when cut into bite-sized pieces, so keep a close eye on them to prevent overcooking. The internal temperature for safely cooked salmon should reach 145°F (63°C), but given their small size and the high heat of the oil, they will reach this temperature quickly as the exterior crisps to perfection.
5. Drain Excess Oil: As each batch finishes frying and achieves that perfect golden crisp, carefully remove the salmon bites from the hot oil using a slotted spoon or a spider strainer. Immediately transfer them to a wire rack set over a baking sheet lined with paper towels. This setup is important because it allows air to circulate around all sides of the bites, which is essential for maintaining their crispiness as they cool slightly and drain any excess oil. Resist the urge to pile them directly onto paper towels on a flat surface, as this can trap steam and make the bottom soggy – we want crispy all around!
6. Maintain Oil Temperature: Before adding the next batch of salmon, allow the oil to return to that ideal temperature range of 350-375°F (175-190°C). You may need to adjust your heat up or down slightly between batches. Repeat the entire frying process until all your salmon bites are perfectly golden, wonderfully crispy, and absolutely irresistible.

Crafting the Irresistible Bang Bang Sauce

1. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the 1/2 cup of creamy mayonnaise, the 1/4 cup of sweet chili sauce (which provides a lovely balance), the 2 tablespoons of Sriracha (remember, you can always add more later if you like it extra spicy!), and the 1 tablespoon of honey or agave nectar. These form the delicious, rich base of our signature sauce.
2. Add Brightness and Depth: Next, stir in the 1 teaspoon of rice vinegar or fresh lime juice. This is a crucial addition because it provides a much-needed touch of acidity. This acidity cuts through the richness of the mayonnaise and the sweetness of the chili sauce, creating a beautifully balanced flavor profile. If you’re like me and enjoy an extra layer of savory flavor, you can also stir in the optional 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder at this stage.
3. Whisk Until Smooth: Using a whisk, vigorously stir all the sauce ingredients together. Continue whisking until they are completely smooth, wonderfully creamy, and thoroughly well-combined. Make sure there are no visible lumps of mayonnaise or unmixed streaks of Sriracha; you want a perfectly uniform sauce.
4. Taste and Adjust: This is your moment to truly make the Bang Bang sauce your own! Taste a small spoonful of the sauce. Does it need more sweetness? A touch more honey or agave nectar will do the trick. Do you crave more heat? Don’t hesitate to add a bit more Sriracha, one teaspoon at a time, until it perfectly matches your desired spice level. Perhaps it needs a pinch more salt or a little more tang from the lime juice? Adjust the flavors until the profile perfectly suits your palate. The delicate balance of sweet, spicy, and tangy is precisely what makes this Bang Bang sauce so utterly addictive, especially when paired with our glorious Homemade Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites.
5. Chill (Optional): If you have a little extra time on your hands, I highly recommend covering the sauce and refrigerating it for at least 15-20 minutes. This allows all the beautiful flavors to meld together even more harmoniously, creating a more cohesive, rich, and delicious sauce experience.

Assembling and Serving Your Homemade Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites

1. Toss with Sauce: Once all your crispy salmon bites are fried to golden perfection and have drained any excess oil, transfer them immediately to a large mixing bowl. Now, generously pour your freshly made, irresistible Bang Bang sauce over the warm salmon pieces. The warmth of the salmon will slightly soften the sauce, allowing it to coat beautifully.
2. Gently Coat: Using a rubber spatula or two large spoons, gently toss the salmon bites until they are all evenly coated in that luscious, creamy, spicy-sweet sauce. It’s important to be gentle here to avoid breaking up that magnificent crispy coating you worked so hard to achieve. You want every single bite to be enveloped in that incredible Bang Bang goodness without sacrificing its crunch.
3. Garnish and Serve Immediately: Transfer the sauced Homemade Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites to a beautiful serving platter or individual plates. For an added touch of freshness, vibrant color, and visual appeal, sprinkle generously with your chopped fresh green onions and sesame seeds. The green onions add a bright, mild oniony counterpoint, and the sesame seeds provide a lovely nutty finish and an elegant look.
4. Serving Suggestions: These Bang Bang Salmon Bites are truly at their absolute best when served immediately while they are still wonderfully warm and at their peak crispiness. They make an absolutely fantastic appetizer on their own, perfect for entertaining or a casual snack. Alternatively, you can serve them as a show-stopping main course alongside a bed of fluffy white rice or brown rice, or a refreshing crisp side salad to balance the richness. The magical combination of the hot, tender, flaky salmon, the satisfyingly crunchy exterior, and the creamy, perfectly balanced spicy-sweet sauce is simply divine and incredibly addictive. Prepare yourself for enthusiastic rave reviews from anyone who tries them! Enjoy every single, glorious bite of your culinary masterpiece.

Conclusion:

Well, my friends, we’ve reached the exciting end of our culinary journey for today, and I truly hope you’re feeling as inspired as I am about this incredible recipe. What makes these salmon bites an absolute must-try, you ask? It’s simple: they deliver an unparalleled explosion of flavor and texture that’s incredibly hard to resist. Imagine that perfect crunch on the outside, giving way to tender, flaky salmon on the inside, all coated in that irresistible, creamy, tangy, and subtly spicy Bang Bang sauce. It’s a sensory delight that transforms a humble piece of salmon into something truly extraordinary. I promise you, once you taste the synergy of the perfectly cooked salmon with the vibrant sauce, you’ll understand why this dish has become such a beloved staple in my kitchen. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience, a moment of pure, unadulterated gastronomic joy. And the best part? It’s surprisingly simple to achieve, even for novice home cooks.

This recipe isn’t just about making food; it’s about creating memorable moments around the table, impressing your guests, or simply treating yourself to something truly special after a long day. It’s a dish that looks sophisticated but comes together with relative ease, making you feel like a culinary superstar without all the fuss. It’s a perfect balance of textures and flavors – the initial crispness, followed by the tender, rich salmon, all enveloped in that harmonious sauce that hits all the right notes: a little sweet, a little spicy, and undeniably creamy. This isn’t just another salmon recipe; it’s an experience that tantalizes your palate and leaves you craving more. It’s the kind of dish you’ll find yourself thinking about long after the last bite, eager to recreate that magic in your own kitchen. And despite its gourmet appeal, the process is surprisingly straightforward, proving that truly exceptional food doesn’t always require hours of complex techniques. It’s about smart cooking, and this recipe absolutely delivers on that promise.

Serving Suggestions & Creative Variations:

Now, let’s talk about making these delectable morsels even more exciting! The beauty of these bites lies in their incredible versatility. While they are absolutely fantastic on their own as a standalone appetizer—perhaps with some toothpicks for easy grabbing at your next gathering—their potential extends far beyond that. For a satisfying main course, I love serving my Homemade Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites over a bed of fluffy jasmine rice or even nutty brown rice for a healthier twist. Pair them with some steamed or roasted broccoli, asparagus, or a colorful bell pepper medley, and you’ve got a complete, vibrant meal that’s both nourishing and utterly delicious. Thinking outside the bowl? How about turning them into incredible tacos or lettuce wraps? Imagine soft, warm tortillas filled with these crispy salmon bites, topped with some fresh slaw, a sprinkle of cilantro, and perhaps an extra drizzle of that amazing Bang Bang sauce. Or, for a lighter, gluten-free option, use crisp lettuce cups – the crunch of the lettuce perfectly complements the salmon.

If you’re feeling adventurous, don’t hesitate to play with the sauce itself! You can adjust the spice level to your preference, adding more sriracha for an extra kick or a touch more honey to mellow it out. A squeeze of fresh lime juice can brighten the flavors beautifully, adding a zesty punch that cuts through the richness. You could even try a smoky chipotle mayo base for a different, yet equally delicious, spin. And who says salmon is the only star? While salmon is my absolute favorite for this recipe, you could certainly experiment with other proteins. Crispy Bang Bang Shrimp is a classic for a reason, and chicken breast or firm tofu cut into similar bite-sized pieces would also soak up that wonderful sauce beautifully, offering a fantastic alternative for those who prefer it. Don’t forget the garnishes! A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds adds an elegant touch and a nutty flavor, while finely chopped green onions provide a fresh, pungent contrast. A scattering of fresh cilantro or even a few chili flakes can really elevate the presentation and add another layer of flavor. Beyond main meals and appetizers, think about how these bites could elevate your brunch spread! Imagine them alongside fluffy scrambled eggs and avocado toast for a truly decadent and unexpected twist. Or, for a sophisticated snack, simply pair them with a light, crisp white wine or a refreshing craft beer. The possibilities are truly boundless, limited only by your imagination. And when it comes to customizing the sauce, remember that a touch of ginger can add a wonderful aromatic warmth, or a splash of rice vinegar can introduce an extra layer of tanginess that brightens the entire profile. Don’t be afraid to taste and adjust until it’s absolutely perfect for your personal preference.

Your Turn to Create and Share!

So, what are you waiting for? This is your invitation, your friendly nudge, to dive into your kitchen and experience the magic of these bites for yourself. Trust me, the aroma alone as they cook will have your taste buds tingling in anticipation, and the first bite will confirm that every moment spent preparing them was absolutely worth it. I’m genuinely excited for you to try this recipe, to discover how easy it is to create something truly spectacular at home. Don’t be shy; embrace the process, have fun with it, and prepare to be amazed by the delicious results you’ll achieve. Once you’ve whipped up your own batch, I would be absolutely thrilled to hear about your experience! Did you stick to the original, or did you put your own creative spin on it? What were your favorite serving suggestions? Please, share your culinary adventures with me! Leave a comment below, tell me your thoughts, or even better, share a photo of your magnificent creation. Your feedback and stories not only make my day but also inspire other home cooks in our community. Let’s connect and celebrate the joy of cooking and delicious food together. I believe in you, and I know you’re going to love making and devouring these amazing crispy bites! This is more than just a recipe; it’s an opportunity to create something truly delicious and to share that joy with others. So, gather your ingredients, put on your favorite cooking playlist, and embark on this flavorful adventure. I’m confident that these crispy salmon bites will quickly become a cherished favorite in your culinary repertoire, a dish you’ll return to again and again. Your kitchen is about to become the happiest, most delicious place on earth, and I cannot wait for you to experience that firsthand. Don’t let hesitation hold you back from discovering this fantastic dish.

Homemade Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites: Easy Recipe!

Homemade Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites are an absolute game-changer, featuring perfectly golden, crispy pieces of tender salmon enveloped in a vibrant, creamy, subtly spicy Bang Bang sauce. This dish offers a symphony of textures and flavors, from the crunchy exterior to the succulent, flaky salmon, harmonized by a velvety, tangy sauce. Inspired by Szechuan’s “Bang Bang Chicken,” this contemporary twist delivers an unforgettable taste, balancing sweet, savory, and a hint of heat. Perfect as an appetizer or a main course, these salmon bites are guaranteed to impress.

Prep Time
30 Minutes

Cook Time
25 Minutes

Total Time
55 Minutes

Servings
4 servings

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs skinless salmon fillets
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 3-4 cups neutral oil, for frying
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
• 2 tbsp Sriracha (adjust to taste)
• 1 tbsp honey or agave nectar
• 1 tsp rice vinegar or fresh lime juice
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder (optional, for sauce)
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh green onions
• 1 tbsp sesame seeds

Instructions

1. Step 1
   Rinse and thoroughly pat dry 1.5 lbs skinless salmon fillets. Cut into uniform 1-1.5 inch cubes and season lightly with salt and pepper.
2. Step 2
   In a shallow dish, whisk together 1/2 cup flour, 1/4 cup cornstarch, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp onion powder, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, 1/4 tsp cayenne (optional), 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. In a separate shallow dish, beat 2 large eggs.
3. Step 3
   Dip salmon pieces into the egg wash, then into the dry flour mixture, ensuring full coverage. For extra crispiness, double-dip: egg wash again, then flour mixture. Place coated salmon on a wire rack and let rest for 10-15 minutes.
4. Step 4
   Heat 3-4 cups neutral oil in a heavy pot to 350-375°F (175-190°C). Fry salmon in small batches for 3-4 minutes until golden brown and crispy, turning as needed. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on a wire rack.
5. Step 5
   In a bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce, 2 tbsp Sriracha, 1 tbsp honey or agave nectar, and 1 tsp rice vinegar or lime juice. Optionally, add 1/4 tsp garlic powder. Taste and adjust seasonings.
6. Step 6
   Transfer warm fried salmon to a large bowl. Pour Bang Bang sauce over and gently toss until evenly coated. Garnish with 2 tbsp chopped green onions and 1 tbsp sesame seeds. Serve immediately.

Important Information

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.