Name: Flavorful Bang Bang Salmon Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each, skinless and boneless); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; Salt and black pepper, to taste; 1/4 cup mayonnaise; 3 tablespoons sweet chili sauce; 1–2 teaspoons sriracha (adjust to taste); 1 teaspoon fresh lime juice; 2 tablespoons chopped green onions (for garnish)

I’ve made a lot of salmon dishes over the years, but this Flavorful Bang Bang Salmon recipe is something I keep coming back to. The balance of spicy, sweet, and creamy with that perfect sear on the salmon creates a flavor that sticks with you—literally and emotionally. Whether I’m serving it for a quick weeknight dinner or something a little special on the weekend, it never fails to impress.

The sauce alone is reason enough to make it—rich, bold, with just enough heat to keep things exciting. And the salmon? It flakes apart like butter. If you’ve ever wondered how to make restaurant-quality salmon at home without complicated steps, this is the one to try.

Why You’ll Love This Bang Bang Salmon Recipe

This recipe brings together the best of all worlds—simple prep, quick cook time, and incredible depth of flavor. It’s perfect for anyone who wants a satisfying, high-protein meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free and easily adaptable for low-carb or keto lifestyles.

The caramelized exterior gives a slightly crispy bite, while the inside stays moist and tender. That creamy Bang Bang sauce is like a flavor bomb—slightly spicy, lightly sweet, and totally addictive. You’ll find yourself spooning it over everything.

What Kind of Salmon Should I Use for Bang Bang Salmon?

When it comes to this recipe, fresh, skinless salmon fillets are ideal. I like to use center-cut pieces because they cook evenly and have a buttery texture. Wild-caught salmon usually has a deeper flavor and firmer flesh, while farm-raised is milder and a bit fattier—both work, so go with what you love or what’s available. Just be sure the salmon is boneless and cut into evenly sized portions so each piece cooks at the same rate and gets that delicious golden sear.

Options for Substitutions

Not a fan of spice or missing an ingredient? No problem—this recipe is super flexible.

Greek Yogurt Instead of Mayo: Want a lighter option for the sauce? Swap the mayo for Greek yogurt to keep it creamy but lower in fat.
Honey Instead of Sweet Chili Sauce: If you don’t have sweet chili sauce, a mix of honey and a dash of hot sauce can stand in.
Chicken or Shrimp Instead of Salmon: The Bang Bang sauce works beautifully with grilled chicken or shrimp if you’re craving something different.
Sriracha Alternatives: No sriracha? Use chili garlic sauce, gochujang, or even hot sauce for a different twist on the heat.
Dairy-Free Option: Use vegan mayo or a dairy-free yogurt for the sauce to keep it lactose-free.
Air Fryer Method: Instead of pan-searing or baking, try the air fryer for crispier edges without much oil.

This recipe is meant to work with what you’ve got, so don’t stress if you need to get a little creative.

Each ingredient here plays an important role in building that crave-worthy flavor and texture:

Salmon Fillets – The star of the dish. Look for fresh, boneless, skinless fillets with good marbling for a rich, buttery bite.
Olive Oil – Helps achieve that beautiful sear on the salmon and keeps it from sticking to the pan or baking sheet.
Salt and Pepper – Just a simple seasoning to enhance the natural flavor of the salmon.
Garlic Powder – Adds a layer of savory depth that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the sauce.
Paprika – For a little smoky kick and extra color on the salmon as it cooks.
Mayonnaise – The creamy base of the Bang Bang sauce. It gives the sauce richness and smooth texture.
Sweet Chili Sauce – Brings the signature sweet-and-spicy flavor that makes this dish addictive.
Sriracha – Adds heat and zing to the sauce, balancing the sweetness perfectly.
Lime Juice – A touch of acidity brightens the whole sauce and cuts through the richness.
Green Onions – For garnish. They add color, freshness, and a subtle onion bite that complements the dish beautifully.

Step 1: Prep the Salmon

Start by patting your salmon fillets dry with a paper towel—this helps them sear beautifully. Cut them into evenly sized portions if they aren’t already, and season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.

Step 2: Make the Bang Bang Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and a splash of lime juice. Taste and adjust—add more sriracha for heat, or more chili sauce for sweetness. Set aside.

Step 3: Sear or Bake the Salmon

To Sear: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add salmon fillets and cook for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
To Bake: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place seasoned salmon on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until salmon flakes easily with a fork.

Step 4: Glaze with Bang Bang Sauce

Once the salmon is cooked, brush or spoon the Bang Bang sauce generously over each fillet while they’re still warm. You can also return them to the oven for 2 minutes to slightly caramelize the sauce.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Top with freshly chopped green onions for a pop of color and crunch. Serve immediately while the salmon is hot and the sauce is melty and delicious.

How Long to Cook the Bang Bang Salmon

Cooking time really depends on the thickness of your salmon and your method.

Pan-Searing: Cook salmon for about 3–4 minutes per side over medium-high heat. The outside should be golden and the inside just cooked through.
Baking: In a 400°F (200°C) oven, salmon takes about 12–15 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it flakes easily with a fork and the inside is opaque.
Air Frying (Optional): At 400°F, it typically takes 8–10 minutes. Great for a slightly crispier exterior.

No matter which method you choose, the salmon should reach an internal temperature of 125–130°F (51–54°C) for moist, tender results.

Tips for Perfect Bang Bang Salmon

Pat the Salmon Dry: This is key for a great sear and helps the seasoning stick.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If searing, give each piece room to breathe so it cooks evenly and browns properly.
Preheat Your Pan or Oven: A hot surface means quicker caramelization and better texture.
Use Fresh Lime Juice: Bottled juice can taste flat. A fresh squeeze really lifts the sauce.
Taste the Sauce Before Using: Everyone’s spice tolerance is different—adjust the heat or sweetness to your liking before adding it to the salmon.
Add Sauce While Salmon Is Hot: It helps the sauce melt slightly and soak into the fish.
Let the Salmon Rest: A minute or two before serving allows the juices to redistribute.
Optional Garnish: A sprinkle of sesame seeds or a drizzle of extra sauce on the plate goes a long way for presentation.

Even though Bang Bang Salmon is pretty straightforward, a few missteps can mess with the magic. Here’s what to avoid:

Overcooking the Salmon: This is the #1 mistake. Salmon cooks fast—keep an eye on it or use a thermometer to avoid dryness.
Using Too Much Oil: A little oil goes a long way, especially if you’re searing. Too much can make the salmon greasy.
Skipping the Dry Pat: Moisture on the salmon prevents it from getting that perfect sear or crisp edge.
Overcrowding the Pan: This drops the temperature and causes the salmon to steam rather than sear.
Applying Sauce Too Early: If you cook the salmon with the sauce on it, it might burn or separate. Add it after cooking or in the final minutes.
Not Adjusting the Sauce: Everyone’s taste buds are different—always taste and tweak your sauce before using it.
Neglecting Garnish: A few chopped green onions or herbs elevate both flavor and presentation.
Serving It Cold: This dish is best hot and fresh when the sauce is warm and silky.

What to Serve With Bang Bang Salmon?

Roasted Garlic Green Beans

Crispy, garlicky green beans bring a perfect contrast to the creamy Bang Bang sauce.

Coconut Rice

Fluffy rice with a hint of coconut makes for a slightly sweet, tropical pairing.

Cucumber Salad

Refreshing, crunchy, and light—this salad balances out the richness of the salmon.

Sesame Noodles

A chilled or warm noodle side tossed with sesame oil and soy sauce complements the Asian-inspired flavors.

Steamed Broccoli

Simple and healthy, broccoli works great to soak up extra sauce.

Pickled Veggies

Add tang and crunch with a small bowl of pickled carrots, radish, or onions.

Roasted Sweet Potatoes

Their natural sweetness pairs beautifully with the spicy Bang Bang sauce.

Garlic Bread or Flatbread

Mop up any leftover sauce with some toasty bread—trust me, you won’t want a drop to go to waste.

Storage Instructions

Got leftovers? Bang Bang Salmon keeps surprisingly well if stored right.

Refrigerator: Store cooled salmon in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep the sauce separate if possible to preserve texture.
Freezer: While you can freeze it, the texture of the salmon and sauce may change slightly upon thawing. If freezing, wrap the salmon tightly in foil or plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. Use within 1 month.
Reheating: Reheat gently in the oven at 300°F or in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of water or fresh sauce to keep things moist. Avoid microwaving—it can dry out the fish.

Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving)

These numbers are based on one salmon fillet (around 6 oz) with a generous spoonful of Bang Bang sauce:

Calories: 390
Protein: 34g
Fat: 24g
Carbohydrates: 8g
Fiber: 0g
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 420mg

Nutrition may vary depending on substitutions and exact portion size, but overall, this is a solid high-protein, low-carb meal with a good balance of healthy fats and flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Bang Bang Sauce made of?

The classic Bang Bang sauce is a creamy, spicy blend of mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha. Lime juice is often added for a bit of brightness.

Can I make Bang Bang Salmon ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep the sauce and season the salmon in advance. Cook it fresh when you’re ready to serve for best flavor and texture.

Is Bang Bang Salmon spicy?

It has a gentle kick, thanks to the sriracha. If you’re sensitive to spice, just reduce the amount or skip it altogether.

Can I use frozen salmon?

Absolutely. Just make sure it’s fully thawed and patted dry before cooking so it sears or bakes evenly.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Reheat gently in a skillet or low oven to avoid drying out the salmon. Add a little extra sauce or water to refresh it.

Can I grill the salmon instead?

Yes, grilling works great! Just brush the sauce on after grilling to prevent it from burning.

What’s a good low-carb side for this dish?

Cauliflower rice, sautéed greens, or a cucumber salad make perfect low-carb pairings.

Can I make this dairy-free or egg-free?

Yes. Use vegan mayo for both a dairy-free and egg-free version. Most sweet chili sauces are already vegan—just double-check the label.

Conclusion

This Flavorful Bang Bang Salmon recipe is a go-to favorite when I want something bold, satisfying, and incredibly simple to pull off. The sauce alone is a total game-changer, and once you try it, you’ll find yourself making it again and again—maybe even for dishes beyond salmon.

It’s fast enough for a busy weeknight, yet impressive enough to serve to guests. Whether you pan-sear it for a crisp crust or bake it for ease, the results are always delicious. Plus, it’s adaptable, customizable, and works with a variety of side dishes. Give it a try, and don’t be surprised if it becomes part of your regular rotation.