Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon Recipe in 20 Minutes

This Bang Bang Salmon air fryer recipe is a quick, flavorful dinner that is perfect for busy weeknights. The salmon cooks up juicy and tender in the air fryer, while the creamy bang bang sauce adds a tangy, slightly spicy finish. The sauce is made with Greek yogurt, light mayo, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and rice vinegar, giving it the classic bang bang flavor with a lighter feel than many traditional versions.

If you enjoy easy air fryer meals, this recipe is a great option for lunch, dinner, meal prep, or a simple salmon bowl. It comes together quickly, uses simple ingredients, and can be served in several different ways depending on what you have on hand.

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WHY YOU’LL LOVE BANG BANG SALMON RECIPE

• Flavorful Sauce: The homemade bang bang sauce blends Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and rice vinegar for a creamy, sweet, tangy, and spicy topping that pairs beautifully with salmon.
• Quick and Easy: Using the air fryer keeps the cooking process simple. With only a few minutes of prep and a short cook time, this recipe is ideal for nights when you want a satisfying meal without spending a long time in the kitchen.
• Versatile: Bang Bang Salmon can be served as a main dish with rice and vegetables, tucked into tacos, added to salads, or used as the base for a nourishing salmon bowl.
• A Lighter Option: Salmon is a protein-rich fish that contains omega-3 fatty acids. Air frying also helps reduce the need for extra oil compared to deep-frying or pan-frying.

WHAT TYPE OF SALMON TO USE

You can use either farm-raised or wild-caught salmon for this air fryer bang bang salmon recipe. Farm-raised salmon usually has a milder flavor and fattier texture, while wild-caught salmon often has a stronger flavor and firmer texture. The best choice depends on your taste preference and what is available at your local grocery store.

Center-cut salmon fillets work especially well because they tend to cook evenly, but any cut of salmon can be used. If your fillets vary in thickness, check the thickest portion for doneness and adjust the cooking time as needed.

INGREDIENTS NEEDED FOR BANG BANG SALMON

• Fresh salmon fillets – Center-cut salmon fillets are preferred, but any fresh salmon fillets will work for this recipe.
• Spices – Old Bay, paprika, and black pepper create a simple, savory seasoning blend. Cajun seasoning can be used as an alternative.
• Avocado oil – A light, high-heat oil that helps the seasoning coat the salmon. Avocado oil spray may also be used.

BANG BANG SAUCE INGREDIENTS

Store-bought bang bang sauce can be used, but making a homemade version is simple and allows you to control the flavor and texture. This lighter sauce still tastes creamy, tangy, and spicy.

• Light mayo – Adds creaminess with a lighter texture than traditional mayonnaise.
• Greek yogurt – Plain Greek yogurt adds tang and helps make the sauce lighter.
• Sweet chili sauce – Adds sweetness and mild heat to the sauce.
• Sriracha – Brings a spicy kick. If you do not have sriracha, use your favorite hot sauce.
• Rice vinegar – Balances the creaminess and adds a bright, tangy finish.

HOW TO BRINE SALMON

For the best results, brining the salmon before cooking is recommended. Add about 2 cups of water to a bowl, then stir in 1.5 tablespoons of salt. Place the salmon fillets in the saltwater solution and let them soak for at least 10 minutes.

Brining helps improve the final texture and flavor of the salmon. It can also help the fish stay juicy as it cooks in the air fryer.

• Helps season the salmon flesh for better flavor.
• Helps prevent the fish from drying out.
• Helps reduce albumin from leaking out of the salmon during cooking.

After brining, remove the salmon from the solution and place it on paper towels. Pat it thoroughly dry before seasoning so the spices and oil can coat the surface evenly.

HOW TO MAKE HOMEMADE BANG BANG SAUCE

In a small bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, light mayo, sweet chili sauce, rice vinegar, and sriracha. Stir until the sauce is smooth and fully combined. Set it aside while you prepare and cook the salmon.

COOKING SALMON FILETS

Cooking bang bang salmon in the air fryer is one of the easiest ways to get a quick meal on the table. The air fryer helps the salmon cook evenly while keeping the inside tender and moist.

In a small bowl, mix the Old Bay, paprika, and black pepper. Season the top of the salmon generously with the spice blend. Drizzle the avocado oil over the salmon and use a pastry brush to spread it evenly across the surface.

Place the salmon fillets in the air fryer basket in a single layer with the skin side down. Cook for 8 to 10 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets and your preferred doneness. The internal temperature should reach 145 degrees F at the thickest part of the salmon.

Remove the salmon from the air fryer and place it on parchment paper or a plate to cool slightly. While the salmon is cooling, drizzle the bang bang sauce over the top.

For a more baked-on sauce, you can add the sauce during the last 1 to 2 minutes of cooking. Return the salmon to the air fryer for the remaining cook time.

HOW TO SERVE

This air fryer bang bang salmon is delicious on its own, but it also makes a great salmon bowl. Serve it with jasmine rice, sliced cucumbers, pickled onions, shredded carrots, and a leafy green such as spinach or kale. Finish with green onions and red pepper flakes if desired.

For a low-carb option, swap the white rice for cauliflower rice. You can also use the salmon in tacos, serve it over a green salad, or pair it with your favorite vegetables for a simple, balanced meal.

STORING LEFTOVERS

Store leftover bang bang salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep any extra sauce separate if possible, then add it after reheating or when serving.

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