Bang Bang Salmon Recipe
If you’re on the hunt for a meal that’s guaranteed to impress but secretly couldn’t be easier, let me introduce you to the irresistible Bang Bang Salmon Recipe. Picture perfectly baked, flaky salmon smothered in a creamy, tangy, and just-spicy-enough sauce that clings to every luscious bite. This Asian-inspired dish brings together sweet chili, sriracha, and a zippy sauce over tender fish, making weeknight dinners or dinner parties feel like a restaurant-worthy event without the fuss. Trust me, the Bang Bang Salmon Recipe will be an instant favorite at your table!

Ingredients You’ll Need
What makes this dish so magical is how the right mix of fresh, bold, and creamy ingredients come together in just the right way. Every single component plays a role, whether it’s in flavor, texture, or eye-catching color. Here’s what you’ll need to create this flavor-packed Bang Bang Salmon Recipe:
- Salmon fillets (4, about 6 oz each): Seek out bright, fresh salmon for the best flavor and tender results; removing the skin ensures the sauce soaks in fully.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): A quick brush keeps the fish juicy and helps seasonings stick.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Essential for seasoning and drawing out the fresh flavor of the salmon.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a subtle warmth that pairs so well with the creamy sauce.
- Garlic powder (1/4 teaspoon): Gives each bite that savory, aromatic boost.
- Mayonnaise (1/4 cup): This is the creamy base for our bang bang sauce; swap for Greek yogurt for a lighter twist.
- Sweet chili sauce (2 tablespoons): Adds sweetness and gentle heat; always a crowd-pleaser!
- Sriracha (1 tablespoon): This is where the “bang” comes from! Use more or less to suit your spice level.
- Honey (1 tablespoon): Balances out the heat and acidity with a touch of floral sweetness.
- Rice vinegar (1 teaspoon): The secret ingredient that adds just enough tang to brighten the sauce.
- Green onion (1, thinly sliced): Sprinkled on top for crunch and fresh pop of flavor.
- Sesame seeds (optional): Just a pinch gives visual flair and a subtle nuttiness!
How to Make Bang Bang Salmon Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Baking Sheet and Salmon
Begin by heating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy clean-up. Gently pat each salmon fillet dry with paper towels. This step is key—it helps the olive oil and spices stick, and results in beautifully browned, flaky fish.
Step 2: Season the Salmon
Brush each fillet lightly with olive oil on all sides, then sprinkle evenly with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Make sure the seasoning reaches all nooks and crannies for maximum flavor. Arrange the fillets on your prepared baking sheet, leaving a bit of space between each one.
Step 3: Bake the Salmon
Slide the tray into your hot oven and bake for about 12 to 15 minutes. You’re looking for the salmon to flake easily with a fork and for the internal temperature to reach 145°F (63°C). Don’t overbake—just until the fish is tender, moist, and cooked through.
Step 4: Make the Bang Bang Sauce
While the salmon is baking, grab a small mixing bowl and whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and rice vinegar. Whisk until smooth and creamy. Give it a quick taste—if you love more heat, add another drizzle of sriracha!
Step 5: Drizzle, Garnish, and Serve
Once your salmon is hot out of the oven, generously spoon (or artfully drizzle) the bang bang sauce over each fillet. Finish by scattering thin slices of green onion and a sprinkle of sesame seeds on top, if you like. Serve immediately for maximum wow-factor and freshness!
How to Serve Bang Bang Salmon Recipe

Garnishes
The finishing touches are everything! Freshly sliced green onion adds a satisfying crunch and a pop of color, while sesame seeds contribute a hint of nuttiness that makes every bite more exciting. For an even brighter touch, a few fresh cilantro leaves or a wedge of lime on the side can take the Bang Bang Salmon Recipe over the top.
Side Dishes
This versatile salmon pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice or fluffy coconut rice to soak up the tangy sauce. Noodles—especially rice noodles—are another delicious base. A simple side salad or quick sautéed greens (like bok choy or snap peas) will round out the meal and keep things light.
Creative Ways to Present
Why not think outside the box? For a pretty appetizer, flake the cooked salmon, toss with a little extra sauce, and serve as lettuce wraps. Or, tuck slices into warm tortillas for bang bang salmon tacos topped with slaw. If you have leftovers, this salmon makes a stellar rice bowl or salad topping the next day.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers (lucky you!), store the cooled salmon fillets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep any extra bang bang sauce in a separate small jar or container to preserve its creamy texture.
Freezing
While salmon generally freezes well, for best results, wrap each fillet tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil before freezing. Store in a labeled freezer bag for up to one month. I recommend freezing the salmon without sauce and making a fresh batch of the bang bang sauce when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
Reheating
To restore that just-baked texture, reheat the salmon gently in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 8–10 minutes, or until warmed through. If you’re in a hurry, a minute or two in the microwave works too—just don’t overdo it. Add the sauce once heated for the best flavor and texture.
FAQs
What is Bang Bang Salmon Recipe and where did it originate?
Bang Bang Salmon Recipe is a modern take on the classic “bang bang” flavor—famous for its creamy, spicy, sweet sauce—paired here with baked salmon. It’s inspired by Asian-American restaurant menus and brings together pantry staples for a dish that’s both restaurant-worthy and incredibly easy to make at home.
Can I use another protein instead of salmon?
Absolutely! This sauce and method work like a charm with shrimp, chicken thighs, or even roasted tofu if you’d like a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking times as needed depending on the protein you choose.
Is the Bang Bang Salmon Recipe spicy?
It has a lovely, balanced heat thanks to the sriracha, but you’re totally in control—add more or less sriracha to make it perfectly suited to your taste buds. The honey and sweet chili sauce also keep things mellow and friendly for most palates.
Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes! The bang bang sauce can be whipped up 1–2 days in advance and stored in a covered jar in the fridge. Give it a quick stir before serving to bring back its silky smooth consistency.
What’s the best way to know when my salmon is cooked?
The best way is to test with an instant-read thermometer—once it hits 145°F (63°C) in the thickest part, it’s ready. The salmon should look opaque and flake easily with a fork. Overcooking dries out the fish, so keep a close eye on those last few minutes.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a dinner that feels special but is secretly simple, you can’t go wrong with this Bang Bang Salmon Recipe. It’s a recipe that wins hearts—whether for a weeknight treat or just because you want to spoil yourself (or your loved ones!). Give it a try, have fun with the sauce, and get ready to add a new go-to meal to your rotation!
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Bang Bang Salmon Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Bang Bang Salmon recipe is a delicious Asian-inspired dish featuring tender baked salmon fillets topped with a spicy and creamy bang bang sauce. The sweet and tangy flavors perfectly complement the savory salmon, creating a mouthwatering meal that’s easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Salmon:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each), skin removed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
Garnish:
- 1 green onion, thinly sliced (for garnish)
- Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
- Prepare the salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry, brush with olive oil, and season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Place on the baking sheet.
- Bake the salmon: Bake for 12-15 minutes until cooked through.
- Make the sauce: Whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and rice vinegar.
- Serve: Spoon or drizzle the sauce over the cooked salmon. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds.
Notes
- Adjust the sriracha to taste.
- This recipe can also be made with shrimp or chicken.
- For a lighter version, use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fillet with sauce
- Calories: 370
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 430mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 29g
- Cholesterol: 85mg