Description
These Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon Bites are tender, flavorful chunks of salmon tossed in a lemony garlic mixture, air-fried to perfection in just 8 minutes, and finished with a creamy, zesty Bang Bang Sauce. This easy and quick recipe makes a delicious salmon dinner you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients
For the Salmon Bites:
- 1 ½ pounds skinless salmon (1 inch thick)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon lemon pepper (Lawry’s brand recommended)
- ½ teaspoon salt & pepper
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Optional: A pinch or more of cayenne pepper
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- ½ cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt or a combination of both)
- 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1-2 tablespoons sriracha or other hot sauce
- 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
Instructions
- Prepare the Salmon Bite Marinade: In a bowl, combine the garlic powder, lemon pepper, salt, pepper, minced garlic, olive oil, and optional cayenne pepper. Toss the salmon chunks in this lemony garlic mixture, ensuring each piece is well coated.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3-5 minutes to ensure the salmon bites cook evenly and get a nice crisp exterior.
- Air Fry the Salmon Bites: Place the marinated salmon bites in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure not to overcrowd them. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking. The salmon should be tender and slightly crispy on the edges when done.
- Make the Bang Bang Sauce: While the salmon cooks, in a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), sweet chili sauce, sriracha or other hot sauce, and fresh lemon juice. Adjust the heat with sriracha according to your taste preference.
- Serve: Once the salmon bites are cooked, transfer them to a serving plate and drizzle generously with the Bang Bang Sauce. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- You can substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt to make the sauce lighter and healthier.
- Adjust the amount of sriracha in the sauce based on your preferred spice level.
- Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
- Salmon bites are best served fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- If you don’t have an air fryer, these salmon bites can be baked in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 10-12 minutes, but air frying provides superior texture.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
