Save The first time Bang Bang salmon crossed my path, I was at a small fusion restaurant where the chef warned me about the heat level. I took one bite of that creamy, sweet-spicy coating and completely forgot about the warning. My husband actually asked if I could recreate it at home, and after about five attempts, I finally nailed the balance.
Last summer my sister came over for dinner and she claimed to hate salmon. I made this anyway because I was craving it, and she asked for seconds before even finishing her first serving. The sauce just transforms everything about the fish.
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each): I prefer wild caught for the cleaner taste, but whatever you can find works beautifully here
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Helps those spices stick and creates a nice subtle crust
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Way easier than fresh garlic for the dry rub and distributes more evenly
- 1 tsp smoked paprika: This adds such a gorgeous depth that regular paprika just cannot achieve
- ½ cup mayonnaise: Real mayo makes the creamiest base, though Greek yogurt works if you want to lighten it up
- 2 tbsp sweet chili sauce: This is the secret ingredient that makes restaurant style Bang Bang sauce so addictive
- 1 tbsp sriracha: Start here and adjust up or down depending on your spice tolerance
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup: Totally optional but I always add it for that extra gloss and sweetness
Instructions
- Get everything ready:
- Preheat that oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment for the easiest cleanup ever
- Season the salmon:
- Pat those fillets completely dry with paper towels, brush with olive oil, then rub in the garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper
- Cook the fish:
- Place salmon skin side down on your prepared sheet and bake for 12 to 15 minutes until it flakes easily with a fork
- Whisk the magic sauce:
- While the salmon bakes, stir together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and rice vinegar in a small bowl until smooth
- Bring it all together:
- Transfer cooked salmon to plates, drizzle generously with that sauce, and sprinkle with green onions and sesame seeds
Save This became my go to dinner when friends come over unexpectedly because it looks impressive but takes almost zero effort. Everyone always asks for the recipe, and I love watching their faces when they realize how simple it is.
Make It Your Own
Sometimes I swap the salmon for sea bass or even cod when salmon is not looking great at the store. The sauce works with literally any white fish, though I do cook it a few minutes less since white fish can dry out faster.
Side Dish Magic
My absolute favorite pairing is coconut rice with some frozen peas stirred in at the end. The creamy rice balances the spicy sauce perfectly, and something about the sweet coconut just makes the whole dish sing.
Leftover Secrets
If you somehow have leftovers, they make incredible salmon tacos the next day. Just flake the fish into warm corn tortillas with some shredded cabbage and an extra drizzle of sauce.
- Keep the sauce separate until serving time
- Fresh salmon is always best, but leftovers keep for about two days
- Never microwave leftover salmon, it ruins the texture completely
Save I hope this becomes one of those recipes you keep coming back to, because honestly, life is too short for boring salmon dinners.
Recipe Guide
- → What makes Bang Bang sauce special?
Bang Bang sauce combines creamy mayonnaise with sweet chili sauce and sriracha, creating a perfect balance of rich, sweet, and spicy flavors that coat the salmon beautifully.
- → Can I make Bang Bang salmon less spicy?
Absolutely. Reduce the sriracha amount or substitute with extra sweet chili sauce. You can also add more honey to balance any remaining heat.
- → What cooking method works best?
All three methods yield excellent results. Baking gives evenly cooked, tender salmon, grilling adds smoky char, and pan-searing creates crispy skin. Choose based on your preference and available equipment.
- → How long does the sauce keep?
The Bang Bang sauce stays fresh in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make it ahead to save time on busy weeknights.
- → What sides pair well with this dish?
Jasmine rice, quinoa, or roasted vegetables complement the creamy sauce perfectly. A fresh green salad with citrus dressing helps balance the richness.
- → Can I use a different fish?
Yes. Cod, halibut, tilapia, or even shrimp work well with Bang Bang sauce. Adjust cooking times based on the thickness of your chosen protein.