Ingredients
Scale
- 1.5 pounds skinless salmon fillet, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt)
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
- 1–2 tablespoons Sriracha, to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions, for garnish
Instructions
- Step 1: Pat the cubed salmon dry with paper towels. In a medium bowl, drizzle the salmon with olive oil, then sprinkle with smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Toss gently to coat, then sprinkle the cornstarch over the cubes and toss again until all pieces are lightly coated.
- Step 2: Preheat an air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the salmon bites in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not touching. Cook for 8 to 10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the exterior is golden brown and crispy and the salmon is cooked through.
- Step 3: While the salmon cooks, prepare the Bang Bang sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and Sriracha until the sauce is smooth and uniform. Set aside.
- Step 4: Once the salmon bites are crispy, immediately transfer them to a clean bowl. Drizzle the prepared Bang Bang sauce over the hot salmon and gently toss until all the bites are evenly coated.
- Step 5: Transfer the Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites to a serving dish, garnish with freshly chopped green onions, and serve immediately.
Notes
- The key to achieving maximum crispiness is ensuring your salmon cubes are thoroughly patted dry before seasoning, as excess moisture prevents the cornstarch coating from crisping up in the air fryer.
- Store any leftover un-sauced salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, reserving the Bang Bang sauce separately to maintain the crunchy texture.
- If you have leftovers, reheat the salmon (without sauce) in the air fryer at 350°F for 3 to 5 minutes until crisp and warmed through; microwaving is not recommended as it will make the crust soggy.
- For a complete meal, serve these rich, flavorful bites alongside a simple Asian-inspired cucumber salad or a bed of fluffy coconut rice to balance the heat and creaminess.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American