Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites — Crispy Salmon Recipe for Weeknight Dinners

I fell in love with Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites on a rainy weeknight when I wanted something comforting but quick. I had a leftover salmon fillet and a jar of sweet chili sauce in the fridge — after a little experimenting, the crunchy panko coating paired with a creamy, tangy Bang Bang sauce turned that humble weeknight into a tiny celebration. These bites remind me of sharing snacks with friends over movies and the kind of food that turns ordinary moments into warm memories.

Bang Bang-style sauces have become a popular American take on sweet-spicy Asian flavors — think Thai sweet chili meets American mayo — and they work beautifully with rich salmon. This recipe is simple, fast, and endlessly adaptable, so whether you’re cooking for yourself or a crowd, it’s one of my go-to solutions.

Who is this recipe for?

• This recipe is ideal for busy parents, weeknight cooks, seafood lovers, and anyone who wants an impressive yet quick appetizer or main. It’s accessible for beginners but satisfying for seasoned home cooks.

Core ingredients overview:

• This dish combines salmon fillets, panko breadcrumbs, flour, egg, scallions, Bang Bang sauce (mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha), salt, pepper, and vegetable oil for frying to create crispy, flavorful bites with a creamy, spicy-sweet dip.

Tools & Ingredients

Tools (you’ll need)

• Cutting board — for safely cutting salmon into even pieces
• Sharp knife — makes clean cuts for uniform cooking
• Three shallow bowls or plates — for flour, egg, and panko stations
• Measuring spoons — for accurate seasoning and sauce ratios
• Small whisk or fork — to beat the egg and mix the sauce
• Large frying pan or skillet — for shallow frying the salmon bites
• Tongs or slotted spoon — for turning and removing bites from oil
• Paper towels and a plate or rack — for draining excess oil
• Serving platter and small bowl — for serving bites and sauce

Ingredients (with benefits)

• Salmon fillets — rich in omega-3s and protein; the hearty fish base for this dish
• Panko breadcrumbs — provide an airy, extra-crispy coating
• All-purpose flour — helps the egg stick and creates a light crust
• Egg — binds the coating to the salmon for even crisping
• Scallions (green onions) — add brightness and a fresh oniony finish
• Mayonnaise — gives the Bang Bang sauce creaminess and body
• Sweet chili sauce — contributes sweet heat and Asian-inspired flavor
• Sriracha — adds spicy kick and balances sweetness
• Salt — enhances overall flavor
• Black pepper — adds mild warmth and depth
• Vegetable oil for frying (or another neutral oil) — for achieving a golden, crispy exterior

Instructions

1. Cut the salmon fillets into bite-sized pieces. Aim for even sizes so the bites cook uniformly.
2. In a bowl, combine flour, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, beat the egg. In a third bowl, place the panko breadcrumbs.
3. Dip each salmon piece first into the flour, shaking off excess, then into the beaten egg, and finally coat it with panko breadcrumbs. Press lightly so the panko adheres.
4. Heat about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat until shimmering but not smoking.
5. Fry the salmon pieces in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook until golden and crispy, about 3–4 minutes per side. Use tongs to turn gently.
6. Transfer cooked bites to a plate lined with paper towels to drain. Season lightly with a pinch of salt while hot.
7. In a separate bowl, mix mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and Sriracha to make the Bang Bang sauce. Taste and adjust the balance of sweet and spicy to your preference.
8. Serve the crispy salmon bites with the Bang Bang sauce in a small bowl for dipping, garnished with chopped scallions.

FAQ
Q: Can I freeze this recipe?
A: You can freeze uncooked breaded salmon bites on a tray until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 1 month. Fry or bake from frozen (add a minute or two to cooking time). Cooked bites don’t freeze as well; they can become soggy when reheated.

Q: What can I use instead of panko breadcrumbs?
A: You can use crushed cornflakes, crushed potato chips, or regular breadcrumbs. Panko gives the lightest, crunchiest coating, but substitutes will still work in a pinch.

Q: Can I bake or air-fry these instead of frying?
A: Yes — to bake, arrange bites on a lined baking sheet, spray or brush lightly with oil, and bake at 220°C (425°F) for 10–12 minutes, flipping once. For air fryer, cook at 200°C (400°F) for about 8–10 minutes, shaking halfway, until golden.

Q: Is this safe for kids?
A: Generally yes — you can reduce or omit the Sriracha for a milder sauce. Ensure the salmon is cooked through and cut into appropriate sizes for young children.

Tips & Tricks

• Dry the salmon well: Pat fillets thoroughly with paper towels before breading to help the coating stick and crisp.
• Work in batches: Do not overcrowd the pan — that lowers oil temperature and prevents crisping.
• Keep it hot: Maintain medium heat so the exterior crisps quickly without overcooking the salmon interior.
• Customize the sauce: Start with a 2:1 ratio of mayonnaise to sweet chili sauce and add Sriracha slowly until you reach the desired heat.

Conclusion

If you want alternatives or variations, here are a few great resources to explore:

• For an air fryer approach, see Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon Bites – I Am Homesteader.
• For a quick 20-minute version, check out Easy Bang Bang Salmon Bites (made in 20 minutes!) – Britney ….
• For another crispy take and serving ideas, try Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites – Foodie With Family.
• If you’re thinking bowls and meal-prep options, see Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites Bowls – The Roasted Root.
• For a minimalist ingredient approach, read 5-Ingredient Crispy Bang Bang Salmon — Marley’s Menu.

Enjoy your Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites—share with friends and family! Always add

tag after Directions.