If you’re a fan of bold flavors and crispy textures, you’re going to love these Crispy Spicy Salmon Bites. They’re golden on the outside, tender on the inside, and tossed in the most addictive sweet-spicy sauce. Think restaurant-quality salmon, but in bite-sized form and made right at home in under 20 minutes!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy, But Without the Fuss – No deep frying here! Just a quick pan-sear, bake, or air fry for that perfect crunch.
- Bold, Spicy & Sweet – The sauce is a dreamy mix of Thai sweet chili, sriracha, honey, and lime. Seriously next-level.
- Versatile & Easy – Serve these as an appetizer, in rice bowls, tacos, or even in a salad!
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make these crispy, flavor-packed salmon bites:
- Salmon fillets – Cut into cubes for perfect bite-sized pieces.
- Olive oil – Helps crisp up the salmon while keeping it juicy.
- Garlic & onion powder – Adds deep, savory flavor.
- Smoked paprika – A hint of smokiness for that irresistible taste.
- Cayenne pepper (optional) – If you like extra heat, this is your secret weapon!
- Salt & black pepper – Essential for enhancing all the flavors.
- Mayonnaise – Creates a creamy base for the sauce.
- Thai sweet chili sauce – Adds the perfect balance of sweet and spicy.
- Sriracha – Brings the heat! Adjust to your spice preference.
- Honey – A touch of sweetness to balance out the spice.
- Lime juice – Brightens everything up with a zesty kick.
If you love crispy, cheesy dishes, check out these Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps for another quick and delicious meal.
Note: The full list of ingredients with measurements is in the recipe card below!
How to Make Crispy Spicy Salmon Bites
Step 1: Prep the Salmon
Cut the salmon into 1-inch cubes and toss them with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne (if using), salt, and black pepper.
Step 2: Cook the Salmon
- Pan-Sear: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the salmon for 2-3 minutes per side until golden and crispy.
- Oven-Bake: Preheat your oven to 400°F, place the salmon on a lined baking sheet, and bake for 10-12 minutes.
- Air Fry: Set your air fryer to 375°F and cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway for even crispiness.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and lime juice until smooth.
Step 4: Toss & Serve
Drizzle or toss the cooked salmon bites with the sauce and garnish with fresh herbs or sesame seeds if desired.
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
- Pat the salmon dry before seasoning – this helps it crisp up better.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan or air fryer – Give the salmon space to cook evenly.
- Want an extra crunch? Add a light cornstarch coating before cooking.
- Adjust the spice level – If you like it mild, reduce the sriracha; for more heat, add extra cayenne or chili flakes.
Looking for more seafood recipes? Try this Branzino Fillet Recipe for a light and flavorful dish.
How to Serve
These crispy salmon bites are incredibly versatile! Here are a few ways to enjoy them:
- Over rice – Serve them in a bowl with jasmine rice, avocado, and a side of veggies.
- In tacos – Stuff them into warm tortillas with slaw and a squeeze of lime.
- As an appetizer – Serve with toothpicks and extra sauce for dipping.
- On a salad – Toss them into a fresh green salad for a protein-packed meal.
Want a unique appetizer? These Crispy Cottage Cheese Chips are a crunchy, protein-packed snack.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover salmon bites in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing
Freeze cooked salmon bites in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
Reheating
- Oven: Bake at 350°F for 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
- Air Fryer: Reheat at 375°F for 3-4 minutes for a crispy finish.
- Microwave: Use short 30-second bursts to avoid overcooking.
Pair these salmon bites with a comforting soup like this Creamy Potato Hamburger Soup for a cozy meal.
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes! Just thaw it completely and pat it dry before cutting and seasoning.
What can I use instead of mayonnaise in the sauce?
Greek yogurt works great for a lighter, tangier version!
Can I make these salmon bites in advance?
Yes, you can prep the salmon and sauce ahead of time. Cook the salmon fresh for the best texture!
What’s the best way to make these extra crispy?
Air frying gives the crispiest texture, but you can also toss the salmon in a little cornstarch before cooking for extra crunch.
And there you have it—Crispy Spicy Salmon Bites that are crunchy, flavorful, and downright addictive! Whether you’re making a quick dinner, meal prepping, or impressing guests, these salmon bites will hit the spot. Enjoy! 🎉
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Crispy Spicy Salmon Bites Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
These Crispy Spicy Salmon Bites are golden, tender, and packed with bold flavors! Coated in a smoky, slightly spicy seasoning and tossed in a sweet-spicy sauce, they make the perfect appetizer, rice bowl topping, or taco filling. Quick, easy, and utterly delicious!
Ingredients
- Salmon fillets – Cut into bite-sized cubes for even cooking.
- Olive oil – Helps crisp up the salmon while keeping it moist.
- Garlic powder & onion powder – Adds depth of flavor.
- Smoked paprika – Brings a rich, smoky taste.
- Cayenne pepper (optional) – Adds an extra kick of heat.
- Salt & black pepper – Enhances all the flavors.
- Mayonnaise – Creates a creamy base for the sauce.
- Thai sweet chili sauce – Adds the perfect balance of sweet and spicy.
- Sriracha – Boosts the heat level.
- Honey – Balances out the spice with a touch of sweetness.
- Lime juice – Adds a fresh, zesty kick.
Instructions
- Prep the Salmon – Cut the salmon into 1-inch cubes and toss with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne (if using), salt, and black pepper.
- Cook the Salmon:
- Pan-Sear: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook salmon for 2-3 minutes per side until crispy.
- Oven-Bake: Bake at 400°F on a lined sheet for 10-12 minutes.
- Air Fry: Air fry at 375°F for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Make the Sauce – Whisk together mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and lime juice until smooth.
- Toss & Serve – Drizzle or toss the cooked salmon with the sauce and garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, toss the salmon cubes in a light cornstarch coating before cooking.
- Adjust spice levels by adding more or less sriracha and cayenne.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Lunch
- Method: Pan-Sear, Oven-Bake, Air Fry
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired, Fusion
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Keywords: salmon bites