Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites (Sweet & Spicy) Recipe

Crispy salmon cubes, delicately seasoned with smoked paprika, are transformed into a mouthwatering dish when tossed with a luxurious sweet and creamy Thai chili sauce. Each bite delivers a unique explosion of flavor, perfectly balancing a hint of spice with succulent tenderness. This captivating creation is ideal as an appetizer or a main course.

I recently tried a new spin on a classic fish dinner that I think you’ll love if you’re into salmon dishes. My Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites are made with 1 lb salmon fillets cut into cubes, tossed with ½ tsp smoked paprika, and finished with a rich coating that crisps up nicely.

I mixed in ¼ cup mayonnaise with 2 tbsp Thai sweet chili sauce to create a sweet and spicy sauce that really enhances the salmon’s natural flavor. Its nutritional profile makes it a solid choice for a health dinner recipe that’s packed with lean protein.

Each bite brings a balance of firm, flaky fish with a delightful crunch, making it an interesting food recipe perfect as an appetizer or a main dish. I hope you’ll enjoy making it as much as I did and discovering the bold, fresh flavors that this seafood dinner offers.

Why I Like this Recipe

I really love that the salmon bites come out crispy on the outside but still tender and juicy on the inside, which makes every bite feel super satisfying.
I also dig the bang bang sauce because its got that cool blend of creamy, sweet, and spicy flavors that just hit the spot every time.
The recipe is really simple and doesn’t take forever to whip up so I can always count on it as a quick, fun meal when I’m short on time.
Lastly, I like that it’s a twist on regular salmon dishes, making it a cool option to impress my friends while still keeping it casual and enjoyable.

Ingredients

• Salmon: A lean protein powerhouse loaded with healthy Omega-3 fatty acids.
• Smoked Paprika: Brings a rich smoky flavor and a hint of gentle heat.
• Mayonnaise: Offers a creamy texture with a subtle tang that helps mellow spice.
• Thai Sweet Chili Sauce: Delivers a vibrant mix of sweet and spicy notes.

Ingredient Quantities

• 1 lb salmon fillets, cut into cubes
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• ¼ cup mayonnaise
• 2 tbsp Thai sweet chili sauce

How to Make this

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F or heat up a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat, whichever you prefer.

2. Pat the salmon dry and then cut it into 1-inch cubes.

3. In a bowl, toss the salmon cubes with the smoked paprika until they’re evenly coated.

4. If you’re baking, line a baking sheet with parchment paper and spread the salmon cubes out in a single layer.

5. Bake for about 8-10 minutes or until the salmon is just cooked through and the edges start to get crispy.

6. If you’re frying, add a little oil to your skillet and cook the salmon for about 3-4 minutes per side until a crispy outer layer forms.

7. While the salmon is cooking, mix together the mayonnaise and Thai sweet chili sauce in a small bowl to make your Bang Bang sauce.

8. Once the salmon bites are ready, toss them in the sauce so every piece gets nicely coated.

9. Give it a quick taste and adjust the sauce if needed, then plate it up immediately.

10. Enjoy your Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites as a fun appetizer or a bold main dish!

Equipment Needed

1. Oven set to 425°F or a nonstick skillet heated over medium-high heat
2. Baking sheet covered with parchment paper (if you choose to bake)
3. Cutting board for cutting the salmon
4. Sharp knife to cut salmon into 1-inch cubes
5. A medium bowl for tossing the salmon with smoked paprika
6. A small bowl to mix the mayo and Thai sweet chili sauce
7. Measuring spoons and cups for accurate amounts of spice, mayo and sauce
8. A spatula for turning the salmon in the skillet or for coating them with the sauce

FAQ

Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites (Sweet & Spicy) Recipe Substitutions and Variations

• If you cant get fresh salmon fillets, you can use other white fish like cod or tilapia. It might effect the texture a bit tho
• If you dont have smoked paprika, try using regular paprika mixed with a tiny drop of liquid smoke or even a pinch of chipotle powder
• You can substitute mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt for a lighter version but still keeping the creamy touch
• If Thai sweet chili sauce is hard to find, mix sriracha with honey and a squeeze of lime juice as a good replacement

Pro Tips

1. Make sure you pat the salmon real dry before cooking so the spices stick nice and you get that crispy edge you want.
2. If you’re frying the salmon, dont crowd the pan – letting the pieces have a bit of room helps them fry properly rather than stewing.
3. Try adding a little extra of the Thai sweet chili sauce to your mixture if you like it a bit spicier; it really amps up the flavor.
4. Once the salmon is cooked, give it a quick let-down, just a minute or two, so the juices settle and everything tastes even better.