There’s nothing quite like tender salmon with a bold, creamy, and slightly spicy sauce.
This air fryer bang bang salmon is quick, flavorful, and perfect for a weeknight dinner that feels special.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The salmon cooks in just 10–12 minutes, making it an easy weeknight meal.
The bang bang sauce is creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet with a gentle kick.
Air frying gives the salmon a golden crust while keeping the inside moist.
It pairs well with rice, noodles, or fresh greens for a balanced meal.
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Salmon filets are the star—tender, flaky, and rich in healthy fats.
Salmon rub (or any spice rub) adds a flavorful crust to the fish.
Mayo and sweet chili sauce form the creamy base of the bang bang sauce.
Soy sauce adds a savory note, while honey balances with a hint of sweetness.
Pro Tips Before You Start
Pat the salmon dry so the rub and sauce adhere better.
Use a meat thermometer to check doneness (130–135°F for medium, 145°F for well-done).
Cook in batches if your air fryer is small to avoid overcrowding.
Brush extra sauce on after cooking for maximum flavor.
How to Make Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon
Step 1 – Preheat the air fryer
Set your air fryer to 400°F. Preheat if your model has that option.
Step 2 – Prep the salmon
Pat the salmon dry with paper towels.
Rub the seasoning blend evenly over each filet.
Step 3 – Make the bang bang sauce
In a small bowl, whisk mayo, sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, and honey until smooth.
Step 4 – Coat the salmon
Brush some sauce over the tops and sides of each filet.
Step 5 – Cook the salmon
Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
Place salmon in a single layer and cook for 10–12 minutes, until golden and cooked through.
Step 6 – Finish and serve
Brush with extra sauce and serve hot with your favorite sides.
What to Serve Them With
Steamed jasmine rice or coconut rice.
Roasted or air fryer vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or zucchini.
A crisp cucumber salad for a refreshing contrast.
Variations / Substitutions
Swap salmon for cod, tilapia, or shrimp for a seafood twist.
Use Greek yogurt instead of mayo for a lighter sauce.
Add sriracha for extra heat in the bang bang sauce.
Storage & Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3–4 minutes or until warmed through.
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, thaw it completely first and pat dry before seasoning.
Is bang bang sauce spicy?
It’s mildly spicy with a touch of sweetness, but you can add more chili sauce for heat.
Do I need to flip the salmon?
No, the air fryer circulates heat evenly, so flipping isn’t necessary.
Can I bake instead of air fry?
Yes, bake at 400°F for 12–15 minutes until cooked through.
Final Thoughts
Air fryer bang bang salmon is the perfect mix of easy, fast, and flavorful.
The creamy sauce takes it to the next level, making this dish a go-to for both weeknight dinners and casual entertaining.
Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat air fryer to 400°F.
- Pat salmon dry and rub seasoning all over filets.
- Whisk mayo, sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, and honey into a smooth sauce.
- Brush some sauce on top and sides of the salmon.
- Spray air fryer basket with cooking spray. Place salmon in a single layer.
- Cook for 10–12 minutes, until golden and cooked through (130–135°F medium, 145°F well-done).
- See full steps with tips & photos → https://theboatshedcafe.com/air-fryer-bang-bang-salmon/
Notes
- For extra crisp edges, don’t overcrowd the basket—cook in batches if needed.
- Swap honey for maple syrup for a slightly different sweetness.
- Pairs well with jasmine rice or roasted veggies.
My name is Isabella, and this space was born from years of stirring sauces at sunset, baking cookies while the kids played on the porch, and finding comfort in a homemade meal after long, busy days. Here you’ll find delicious, reliable recipes made with simple ingredients, plus easy step-by-step photos and videos to help you cook confidently at home.