Name: Easy Bang Bang Salmon (Oven or Air Fryer)
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 4 boneless salmon fillets (about 6 ounces (170g) each); Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste); ½ cup prepared Bang Bang Sauce; Cooking oil (for air fryer (if needed)); fresh green onions (for serving (optional)); sesame seeds (for serving (optional))

Jump to Recipe

Easy Bang Bang Salmon: Oven or Air Fryer Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Lightning Fast & Fabulous: Forget complicated recipes! This Easy Bang Bang Salmon (Oven or Air Fryer) comes together in just 20 minutes, making it your new go-to for busy weeknights when you crave something special.
Flavor Explosion: That creamy, sweet, and slightly spicy Bang Bang Sauce transforms simple salmon into an unforgettable meal. Each bite is a burst of deliciousness that will have you coming back for more.
Cook It Your Way: Whether you’re an oven enthusiast or an air fryer aficionado, we’ve got you covered! Choose the cooking method that fits your kitchen and schedule best, both delivering perfectly cooked, flaky salmon.
Healthy & Happy: Packed with lean protein, healthy fats, and low in carbs, this salmon dish isn’t just tasty – it’s a smart choice for your well-being. Enjoy gourmet flavors without the guilt!

Get Ready for a Flavor Fiesta: Easy Bang Bang Salmon (Oven or Air Fryer)!

Tired of the same old dinner routine? Ready to inject some serious flavor and excitement into your weeknights without spending hours in the kitchen? Say hello to your new culinary crush: Easy Bang Bang Salmon (Oven or Air Fryer)! This recipe is a game-changer, promising restaurant-quality taste with minimal effort. Imagine tender, flaky salmon coated in that irresistible, creamy, sweet-and-spicy Bang Bang sauce, cooked to perfection in under 20 minutes. Yes, you read that right – 20 minutes from prep to plate! Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this recipe is designed for delicious success. Get ready to impress your taste buds and your dinner guests with this incredibly simple, yet incredibly satisfying dish!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gather these simple ingredients to create your amazing Easy Bang Bang Salmon (Oven or Air Fryer):

🐟 4 boneless salmon fillets, about 6 ounces (170g) each
🧂 Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
🌶️ ½ cup prepared Bang Bang Sauce

Your Step-by-Step Guide to Perfect Bang Bang Salmon

Get ready to make delicious Bang Bang Salmon, your way!

Choose Your Cooking Method:

Oven Baked:

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a small baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper and lightly coat it with cooking spray for easy cleanup.
Place the salmon fillets in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, skin-side down if applicable. Season them lightly with salt and pepper.
Brush about 1 tablespoon of Bang Bang Sauce generously over the top of each salmon fillet.
Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork (internal temperature should reach 125°F/52°C for medium-rare, or higher if preferred). Cooking time may vary based on fillet thickness.
Remove from the oven and spoon any extra Bang Bang Sauce over the cooked salmon for an extra burst of flavor!

Air Fryer:

If your air fryer basket isn’t non-stick, give it a quick spray with cooking oil.
Arrange the salmon fillets in a single layer in the air fryer basket, skin-side down. Season them with salt and pepper.
Coat each fillet with approximately 1 tablespoon of the Bang Bang Sauce.
Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for about 10 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked to your liking (internal temperature of 125°F/52°C). Cooking time can vary depending on fillet thickness and your air fryer model.
Once cooked, drizzle any remaining creamy sauce over the salmon before serving.

Presenting Your Perfect Easy Bang Bang Salmon (Oven or Air Fryer)

The beauty of this Easy Bang Bang Salmon (Oven or Air Fryer) isn’t just in its taste, but also how wonderfully versatile it is for plating! Here are a few ways to serve up your flavorful creation:

Classic & Simple: For an elegant touch, simply place your cooked salmon fillet on a plate and drizzle with any extra Bang Bang sauce. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh chopped green onions (scallions) for a pop of color and mild oniony crunch, or toasted sesame seeds for nutty aroma.
The Full Meal Deal: Pair your Bang Bang Salmon with a bed of fluffy jasmine rice or quinoa for a satisfying carb base. Alongside, add some vibrant roasted broccoli, sautéed asparagus, or a simple side salad with a light vinaigrette to complete your healthy and delicious dinner.
Low Carb Love: For those keeping it low-carb, serve your salmon with a generous portion of cauliflower rice, steamed green beans, or a crisp mixed green salad. The rich flavor of the salmon and sauce means you won’t miss a thing!
Taco Tuesday Twist: Flake the cooked salmon and use it as a filling for exciting salmon tacos or lettuce wraps! Top with shredded cabbage, a squeeze of lime, and extra Bang Bang sauce.
Bowl Goals: Create a vibrant “power bowl” by combining your salmon with your favorite grains, roasted vegetables, and a healthy drizzle of the remaining sauce.

Storing Your Easy Bang Bang Salmon (Oven or Air Fryer)

If you happen to have any leftovers of this incredible Easy Bang Bang Salmon (Oven or Air Fryer), you’re in luck! Cooked salmon stores well and makes for fantastic meal prep or a quick lunch the next day.

Refrigeration: Allow the salmon to cool completely to room temperature (within 2 hours of cooking). Transfer the fillets to an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: To reheat, you can gently warm the salmon in the microwave on a low setting, covered, to prevent drying out. Alternatively, a quick warm-up in the air fryer at 300°F (150°C) for 3-5 minutes, or in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for about 5-8 minutes, will help retain its texture. Avoid overcooking, as this can make the salmon dry.
Freezing: While technically possible, salmon (especially with sauce) can sometimes change texture when frozen and thawed. For best results, it’s recommended to enjoy this dish fresh or within the refrigerated timeframe.

FAQs About Your Easy Bang Bang Salmon (Oven or Air Fryer)

1. What exactly is Bang Bang Sauce?

Bang Bang Sauce is a popular creamy, sweet, and mildly spicy sauce, often found at Asian-inspired restaurants. It typically combines mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and Sriracha for that signature flavor profile.

2. Can I make my own Bang Bang Sauce instead of buying it?

Absolutely! A homemade version typically involves whisking together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, a dash of Sriracha (adjust to your spice preference), and a squeeze of lime juice. There are many simple recipes available online if you prefer to make it from scratch.

3. Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw the frozen salmon completely in the refrigerator overnight or under cold running water before seasoning and cooking. Pat it dry thoroughly before applying the sauce.

4. How do I know when my salmon is perfectly cooked?

Salmon is cooked when it easily flakes with a fork. For those who prefer medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 125°F (52°C) at its thickest part. For a more well-done salmon, cook until it reaches 140-145°F (60-63°C).

5. What if I don’t like spicy food?

Most prepared Bang Bang sauces offer a mild to moderate spice level. If you’re sensitive to heat, you can look for a “mild” version or make your own and reduce or omit the Sriracha. The sweetness from the chili sauce will still provide plenty of flavor!

6. Can I meal prep this Easy Bang Bang Salmon (Oven or Air Fryer)?

Yes, this recipe is great for meal prep! Cook the salmon as directed, then portion it into airtight containers with your favorite side dishes like rice and roasted vegetables. It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days.

7. What are some good side dishes to serve with Bang Bang Salmon?

This versatile salmon pairs wonderfully with jasmine rice, brown rice, quinoa, roasted asparagus, steamed broccoli, a simple green salad, or even mashed cauliflower for a low-carb option.

8. Can I use Bang Bang sauce on other types of fish or protein?

Absolutely! Bang Bang sauce is fantastic on shrimp, chicken, white fish like cod or tilapia, or even firm tofu. Adjust cooking times accordingly for different proteins.

9. Why do you recommend lining the baking sheet or spraying the air fryer basket?

Lining with foil or parchment paper (for oven) and spraying (for air fryer) prevents the salmon and sauce from sticking, making cleanup much easier. It’s a simple step that saves time and effort!

10. How can I ensure my salmon doesn’t dry out?

The key is not to overcook it! Use a meat thermometer to check for desired doneness, and remove it from the heat as soon as it reaches your preferred internal temperature. The sauce also helps keep it moist and flavorful.