I remember the first time Bang Bang Salmon made its way into my kitchen. A close friend brought it over for a casual dinner, and the moment I tasted that blend of spicy, creamy Bang Bang sauce coating perfectly crisp salmon, I was hooked. This Bang Bang Salmon quickly became part of my baking rotation, and each time I make it, it feels like a warm hug from the inside out. It’s that kind of recipe that brings joy without fuss, perfect for those times when you want something special but still homey.
What I love most about this Bang Bang Salmon is how approachable it is. You don’t need to be a professional chef to get that crispy salmon recipe just right, or to mix up that addictive Asian-inspired salmon flavor that makes people ask for seconds. It fits beautifully into my baking and cooking life because it’s dependable and satisfying every single time. Every bite offers a delightful contrast—the tender salmon, that crispy touch, and the spicy kick of Bang Bang sauce—and it’s all so easy to pull together.
If you’re new to this kind of recipe or just looking for a reliable salmon appetizer that wows, I invite you to give this Bang Bang Salmon a try. It’s a recipe I’ve tested repeatedly, and I’m confident it’ll become a favorite in your kitchen like it has in mine. Plus, if you’re curious about different ways to enjoy salmon, you might also love my garlic-butter lemon salmon or even the garlic butter salmon weeknight dinner recipes. These dishes share the same spirit of simplicity and flavor that makes Bang Bang Salmon so wonderful.
When I bake or cook this dish, it’s never stressful—it’s a joy. And that’s what I hope for you too. With a little patience and a pinch of love, your Bang Bang Salmon will come out beautifully every time. Now, let’s dive into what you’ll need to get started with this crowd-pleaser!
What You’ll Need for This Bang Bang Salmon:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each) – You can find these at most grocery stores. Fresh or frozen works, just thaw properly.
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs – This is key for that crispy salmon recipe texture. If you don’t have panko, crushed cornflakes or regular breadcrumbs are a good substitute.
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise – For the Bang Bang sauce, mayo adds creaminess. Light mayo works if you want a lighter version.
- 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce – Look for Asian brands in the sauce aisle; don’t skip because it gives that signature kick.
- 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce – Adjust this if you prefer your Bang Bang salmon less spicy or more fiery.
- 1 tablespoon honey – Balances out the spicy salmon flavors perfectly with a touch of sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Adds depth and warmth to the dish; I always go a little heavier on this for extra flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Freshly ground black pepper works best here.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or vegetable oil – For brushing the salmon, which helps the crispiest coating develop.
This Bang Bang Salmon uses simple ingredients because great baking should be easy to start and fun to finish. I often keep a jar of the spicy Bang Bang sauce ready in the fridge, so I can whip up this dish on a whim. Also, if you’re on a budget, this Bang Bang Salmon is affordable because the ingredients overlap well with other meals, like fried rice or garlic butter lemon salmon, meaning less waste and more flavor!
For prepping, I recommend having your panko seasoned ahead of time by mixing in a bit of salt, pepper, and garlic powder. This little trick makes a big difference once you coat the salmon. And if you’re storing sauce or ingredients, keep the Bang Bang sauce covered in an airtight container in the fridge—it usually keeps well for up to a week.
How to Make This Bang Bang Salmon:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is the perfect temperature to get your salmon crispy without drying it out. From start to finish, this Bang Bang Salmon takes about 25-30 minutes, so it’s great for a weeknight or casual weekend cooking.
- Prepare the Bang Bang sauce. In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and honey until smooth. This is your spicy salmon magic. Taste it and adjust the heat by adding more sriracha or honey if you like it sweeter.
- Season the salmon fillets. Lightly brush each fillet with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. A gentle hand here matters—you want even seasoning without overpowering.
- Coat with panko breadcrumbs. Dip each salmon fillet into the Bang Bang sauce, then press the panko mixture onto the top for a crispy crust. Don’t skip this step—it gives that Asian-inspired salmon crunch everyone loves.
- Place the coated salmon on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a greased rack. This helps air circulate and keeps the bottom from getting soggy.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on the edges and the panko color. When it’s golden and crisp, your Bang Bang Salmon is ready. If your Bang Bang Salmon looks pale or the coating is soggy, simply give it a few more minutes.
- Serve immediately with extra Bang Bang sauce on the side for dipping.
While your Bang Bang Salmon bakes, take a moment to tidy up or enjoy a cup of tea. Your kitchen will soon smell heavenly, with the spicy salmon aroma filling the air—always my favorite part of baking this recipe.
If you want to try a variation, baking Bang Bang salmon bites is a fun twist. I found a great Baked Bang-Bang Salmon Bites recipe on South Your Mouth that’s perfect for appetizers or casual snacking.
Serving Your Bang Bang Salmon:
I love serving this Bang Bang Salmon as a salmon appetizer or as the centerpiece of a simple dinner. The crispy salmon feels special on its own, but pairing it with steamed jasmine rice or my favorite Bang Bang fried rice really rounds out the meal.
For sides, a fresh cucumber salad or light green beans add a nice crisp contrast. The creamy Bang Bang sauce balances that spicy salmon beautifully, making it a family favorite at any gathering.
This Bang Bang Salmon really shines when served warm, straight from the oven with a drizzle of extra sauce and a sprinkle of fresh chopped scallions. You can even dress it up with a squeeze of lime or a handful of toasted sesame seeds to bring out those Asian-inspired flavors.
Leftovers? No problem. I love flaking leftover Bang Bang Salmon into a salad or mixing it into a creamy pasta for a quick lunch. If you want to try an air fryer take on this dish, I Am Homesteader’s Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon Bites is a delicious alternative that keeps the crispy texture.
This dish has been a hit for weekend dinners and even holiday celebrations. It’s a crowd-pleaser that suits both family meals and hosting friends.
Common Questions About This Bang Bang Salmon:
Can I make this Bang Bang Salmon ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the sauce and the panko mixture a day ahead. However, it’s best to coat and bake the salmon just before serving to keep that crispy salmon recipe texture. Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated, but the crust is best fresh.
What’s a good substitute for mayonnaise in this Bang Bang Salmon?
Greek yogurt makes a lovely substitute in the Bang Bang sauce if you want something lighter or dairy-based. It keeps that creamy base but adds a bit of tang.
How can I adjust this Bang Bang Salmon for different pan sizes?
If your baking dish is smaller or larger, just space the salmon fillets evenly to avoid overcrowding. Overcrowding can cause a soggy crust. A parchment-lined baking sheet is usually the easiest way to get even heat distribution.
Can I make this Bang Bang Salmon spicier or milder?
Absolutely! Adjust the sriracha and sweet chili sauce to your taste. Sometimes I halve the sriracha for family meals and go full heat for a gathering with friends who love a kick.
Is it possible to make this Bang Bang Salmon in an air fryer?
Yes, air fryer versions like the Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon Bites recipe are fantastic for quick cooking with great crispy results.
Can I freeze uncooked Bang Bang Salmon?
You can freeze the salmon fillets, but I recommend freezing them uncoated. Freeze the sauce separately to maintain freshness. Coat and bake fresh for the best crispy salmon finish.
What’s the best side to serve with Bang Bang Salmon?
I love light, crisp sides like cucumber salad, jasmine rice, or even a simple steamed veggie medley. If you want a heartier option, check out my garlic butter salmon weeknight dinner recipe for complementary flavors.
Final Thoughts on This Bang Bang Salmon:
This Bang Bang Salmon holds a special spot in my recipe collection because it proves that delicious, crispy salmon doesn’t need to be complicated. Every time I make it, friends and family ask for more—a sure sign of a keeper.
My Top Tips for This Bang Bang Salmon:
- Use panko or a similar coarse breadcrumb for the crispiest salmon coating.
- Adjust the Bang Bang sauce heat to match your spice tolerance.
- Don’t overcrowd your baking pan to keep that crispy texture intact.
For variety, I enjoy trying these delicious versions:
- Bang Bang salmon bites for easy sharing.
- Air fryer sticky Bang Bang salmon for a lighter meal.
- Ginger and sesame twist on the Bang Bang sauce for extra flavor.
The classic version remains my most requested recipe, especially with a side of fragrant fried rice like this Bang Bang fried rice.
I hope you find this Bang Bang Salmon as rewarding to make as I do. It’s perfect for everyday dinners, special occasions, or anytime you want a spicy salmon dish that feels just right. Remember, every bite is a chance to enjoy home cooking at its best. Give it a try—you’ll be so glad you did!
Bang Bang Salmon
Bang Bang Salmon is a flavorful, spicy seafood dish featuring crispy salmon fillets tossed in a creamy, tangy bang bang sauce, perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon Sriracha sauce
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Chopped green onions, for garnish
- Sesame seeds, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Pat the salmon fillets dry and season with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the salmon, skin-side down, for 3-4 minutes until crispy.
- Flip the salmon and cook for another 2 minutes, then transfer to the baking sheet.
- Bake the salmon in the oven for 6-8 minutes until cooked through.
- Meanwhile, in a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, honey, rice vinegar, and minced garlic to make the bang bang sauce.
- Once salmon is cooked, remove from oven and drizzle generously with bang bang sauce.
- Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds before serving.
Notes
For extra crunch, serve the salmon over a bed of crispy fried wonton strips or steamed jasmine rice.