Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites – High-Protein, Air-Fried Salmon with Creamy Spicy Sauce
Samantha
These Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites are the ultimate clean-eating comfort food—tender cubes of salmon coated in cornstarch, air-fried to golden perfection, and tossed in a lightened-up bang bang sauce made with Greek yogurt, sriracha, and honey. With over 30 grams of protein per serving, this gluten-free and low-carb recipe is perfect for busy weeknight dinners, lunch prep, or a spicy seafood appetizer that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
Prep Time 10 minutes mins
Cook Time 10 minutes mins
Total Time 20 minutes mins
Course Appetizer, Dinner, Meal Prep
Cuisine American, Asian-Inspired
Servings 4 servings
Calories 312 kcal
- 1 lb fresh salmon skin removed and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking spray if air frying
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- ⅓ cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1.5 tbsp sriracha adjust to spice level
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp rice vinegar or lime juice
- Pinch of garlic powder
Optional toppings:
- Chopped green onions
- Sesame seeds
- Lime wedges
Prep the Salmon: Cut into 1-inch cubes and pat dry with paper towels. Toss with olive oil, salt, pepper, and cornstarch until coated evenly.
Air Fry (or Bake):- Air Fryer: Preheat to 400°F. Spray the basket and cook salmon bites in a single layer for 8–10 minutes, shaking halfway.- Oven: Bake at 425°F for 12–15 minutes on a parchment-lined baking sheet, flipping once. Make the Sauce: Stir together Greek yogurt, sriracha, honey, vinegar, and garlic powder until smooth.
Toss & Serve: Lightly coat cooked salmon bites in sauce or serve it on the side for dipping.
Top it Off: Garnish with scallions, sesame seeds, or a squeeze of lime.
Secret Tips for the Best Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites
1. Pat the salmon dry: Before seasoning, make sure to thoroughly pat the salmon dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture helps you get that golden, crispy texture when air frying, which is key to making these bang bang salmon bites live up to their name.
2. Cut salmon into even chunks: Uniform, bite-sized pieces ensure the fish cooks evenly and crisps up on all sides. For quick, high-protein meal prep, consistency is your best friend—no overcooked edges or raw centers.
3. Use cornstarch for extra crunch: Tossing the salmon in a light cornstarch coating before air frying gives you that signature crispy shell without needing deep frying. It also helps the creamy bang bang sauce stick better.
4. Don’t overcrowd the air fryer: Space the salmon bites out in a single layer to allow proper air circulation. This is essential for an even crisp on all sides and avoids steaming instead of frying.
5. Chill the sauce before serving: Let your spicy bang bang sauce sit in the fridge while the salmon cooks. A cool, creamy contrast to the hot salmon adds balance and makes every bite pop with flavor.
6. Add garlic powder and smoked paprika: These pantry staples punch up the seasoning on the salmon, adding depth and smoky warmth that pairs perfectly with the spicy-sweet sauce.
7. Serve immediately: For the crispiest texture, enjoy your air-fried salmon bites straight from the basket. They’re perfect for high-protein lunches, low-carb dinner bowls, or as a bold appetizer at your next gathering.Keyword air fryer salmon bites, anti inflammatory seafood recipe, crispy bang bang salmon bites, gluten free salmon bites, healthy bang bang sauce, high protein salmon recipe, low carb salmon appetizer, meal prep salmon recipes, salmon bites with greek yogurt, spicy yogurt salmon sauce
