Introduction
Why has Bang Bang Salmon become such a viral favorite? It’s the perfect balance of sweet, spicy, tangy, and creamy layered over tender, flaky salmon. Inspired by the popular Bang Bang Shrimp, this version replaces frying with simple oven-baking, making it lighter, faster, and weeknight-friendly.
The secret is the Bang Bang Sauce — a creamy chili-lime sauce that coats the salmon and caramelizes slightly as it bakes. The result is salmon that’s juicy, flavorful, and bursting with restaurant-quality flavor at home.
This dish pairs well with rice bowls, salads, roasted veggies, or wraps — making it easy to customize and repeat again and again.
Ingredients List
For the Salmon
- 4 salmon fillets (skin-on or skinless)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for color)
For the Bang Bang Sauce
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha (or more for heat)
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon lime or lemon juice
Optional Toppings
- Chopped green onions
- Sesame seeds
- Lime wedges
- Crushed peanuts (for crunch)
Timing
| Step | Time |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 5 minutes |
| Bake Time | 12–16 minutes |
| Total Time | ~20 minutes |
Fast enough for busy weekdays — impressive enough for hosting.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment.
Place salmon fillets on the tray.
Drizzle with olive oil, then season with:
- Salt
- Pepper
- Garlic powder
- Smoked paprika
Step 2: Make the Bang Bang Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together:
- Mayonnaise
- Sweet chili sauce
- Sriracha
- Honey
- Lime juice
Taste and adjust:
- More honey = sweeter
- More sriracha = spicier
- More lime = brighter
Step 3: Coat the Salmon
Spread about half of the sauce over the salmon fillets.
Reserve the rest for serving.
Step 4: Bake
Bake 12–16 minutes, depending on salmon thickness.
Salmon should flake easily with a fork and appear opaque.
Step 5: Serve
Drizzle remaining Bang Bang sauce over salmon right before serving.
Garnish with scallions, sesame seeds, and lime.
Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~380 kcal |
| Protein | 31g |
| Fat | 22g |
| Carbs | 14g |
High protein, flavorful, and naturally gluten-free.
Healthier Alternatives
| Goal | Adjustment |
|---|---|
| Lower Fat | Use Greek yogurt instead of half the mayo |
| Lower Sugar | Reduce honey + choose sugar-free chili sauce |
| Dairy-Free | Use dairy-free mayo |
| Extra Protein | Serve with quinoa or lentil salad |
Serving Suggestions
Serve Bang Bang Salmon with:
- Steamed jasmine rice or coconut rice
- Roasted broccoli, asparagus, or green beans
- Rice bowls with cucumber & avocado
- Fresh salad with lime vinaigrette
- Noodles or cauliflower rice for low-carb
Quick Meal Idea:
Bang Bang Salmon + Rice + Cucumber Slices + Lime = Perfection.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
| Mistake | Solution |
|---|---|
| Salmon dries out | Do not overbake — check at 12 minutes |
| Sauce burns | Add only half before baking and the rest after |
| Flavor tastes flat | Don’t skip the lime — acidity brightens the dish |
| Salmon sticks to pan | Line baking tray or lightly oil surface |
Storing Tips
- Refrigerate: Up to 3 days
- Reheat: Gently in a skillet or microwave at low power
- Do Not Freeze After Saucing: Sauce can separate when thawed
Conclusion
This Bang Bang Salmon is creamy, spicy-sweet, tangy, and incredibly satisfying. It comes together fast, looks beautiful, and brings big flavor without fuss. Whether enjoyed in a rice bowl, salad, or straight from the pan, it’s a recipe you’ll crave again and again.
Try it tonight — and return to leave your review or variation!
FAQs
1. Can I air-fry it?
Yes — air fry at 390°F (200°C) for 8–10 minutes.
2. Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes — thaw fully and pat dry first.
3. Can I make it spicier?
Add more sriracha or a pinch of chili flakes.
4. Can I meal-prep this?
Yes — store sauce separately and drizzle when reheating.
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