Name: Bang Bang Salmon with Spicy Thai Chili Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ½ pounds salmon (four 6-ounce filets, skin on or off); Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil or avocado oil; Lime wedges (for serving); ¼ cup mayonnaise; 3 tablespoons sweet Thai chili sauce; 1 tablespoon fresh chives, finely chopped (can substitute green onions); 2 teaspoons sriracha; Lime zest (from ½ a lime); Salt and pepper to taste

Print Recipe· 4.3 from 12 reviews

If you’ve been searching for a dish that beautifully balances bold flavors, creamy textures, and vibrant colors, then you absolutely must try this Bang Bang Salmon with Spicy Thai Chili Sauce Recipe. It takes succulent, perfectly seared salmon and elevates it with a luscious, zesty sauce that combines the creaminess of mayo with the kick of sriracha and the sweet complexity of Thai chili sauce. Every bite is a delightful explosion of flavor that feels both comforting and exciting, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for weeknights and special occasions alike.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows four raw salmon pieces, bright orange with light white lines, laid out in a single layer on crinkled brown parchment paper on a dark baking tray. To the right, there is a white plate holding three small bowls: one with thick white cream, a second with bright red sauce in a silver spoon, and a third with an orange-colored sauce. Near the plate, there is a small white bowl filled with coarse salt, and to the upper right, a wooden cutting board holds several dark green chive stems with some chopped finely in front. A silver knife lies beside the cutting board. In the top left corner, a green lime sits on a soft, wrinkled green cloth, all set against a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, whether it’s creating the perfect sear on the salmon or building the layers of that irresistible spicy Thai chili sauce.

1 ½ pounds salmon (four 6 ounce filets, skin on or off): Choose fresh, firm salmon for the best texture and flavor; both skin-on and skinless work beautifully.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning, bringing out the natural flavor of the salmon.
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil or avocado oil: Used for searing the salmon, these oils deliver a subtle richness while helping achieve that perfect crust.
Lime wedges (for serving): Adds a bright, citrusy contrast that elevates the whole dish right before eating.
¼ cup mayonnaise: Forms the creamy base of the spicy Thai chili sauce, ensuring richness and balance.
3 tablespoons sweet Thai chili sauce: The star ingredient for a sweet yet spicy flavor punch in the sauce.
1 tablespoon fresh chives (finely chopped, can substitute for green onions): Imparts a mild onion flavor and fresh color.
2 teaspoons sriracha: Adds heat and a touch of smokiness to awaken your taste buds.
Lime zest (from ½ a lime): Provides a concentrated burst of citrus aroma and flavor.

How to Make Bang Bang Salmon with Spicy Thai Chili Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

Start by mixing the creamy, spicy Thai chili sauce that will become the signature of this dish. In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sweet Thai chili sauce, chopped chives, sriracha, and lime zest. Season lightly with salt and pepper to your taste. This sauce is where the magic happens—creamy, spicy, tangy, and slightly sweet, it brings out the best in the salmon. Once mixed, place it in the fridge to chill and allow the flavors to meld while you cook the fish.

Step 2: Prep the Salmon

Pat each salmon fillet dry with paper towels. This step is key to getting a nice sear. Check for any pin bones and remove them carefully for a smooth eating experience. Season both sides of the salmon gently with salt and pepper. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat, and brush each fillet with olive or avocado oil to prevent sticking and to promote browning.

Step 3: Sear the Salmon

Place the salmon skin side up in the hot pan; this allows for a crispier, caramelized edge on the flesh. If your pan isn’t large enough, work in batches. Sear the salmon for about 1 to 3 minutes on each side depending on thickness. The goal is a beautifully browned exterior with tender, slightly translucent centers for that perfect medium doneness. The contrast between the crispy outer texture and the silky inner flesh truly defines this dish.

Step 4: Serve with Style

Plate your seared salmon immediately while it’s hot. Generously spoon over the chilled bang bang sauce you prepared earlier, letting it drape the fish in creamy, spicy goodness. Add extra chopped chives for freshness and a wedge of lime to squeeze over the top, brightening each bite and tying all the flavors together harmoniously.

How to Serve Bang Bang Salmon with Spicy Thai Chili Sauce Recipe

A close-up of a piece of grilled salmon with a shiny brown glaze on top, showing a light pink inside and slightly charred edges. The salmon rests on a bed of white rice sprinkled with small green herbs. Both the salmon and rice sit on a white plate with a smooth texture. A fork lies to the right side of the plate, resting on the white marbled surface beneath it. In the background, there are blurred green leaves. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Freshness elevates this dish beautifully. A sprinkle of fresh chopped chives or green onions delivers a subtle crunch and burst of color. A few thin slices of red chili can heighten the spicy visual appeal and flavor. Don’t forget a generous squeeze of lime juice right before eating to add a zing that cuts through the richness of the sauce and salmon.

Side Dishes

This Bang Bang Salmon with Spicy Thai Chili Sauce Recipe pairs wonderfully with fragrant jasmine or basmati rice, which soaks up that mouthwatering sauce perfectly. For a lighter option, pair it with a crisp cucumber salad or steamed bok choy tossed in toasted sesame oil and garlic. Roasted vegetables like asparagus or snap peas also complement the dish’s bold flavors and add wonderful texture contrasts.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to wow your guests, try serving the salmon over a bed of coconut-infused rice adorned with fresh cilantro and mint. Another fun idea is to serve it in lettuce cups with crunchy slaw for a fresh, hand-held delight. You could also create a vibrant rice bowl with avocado slices, pickled vegetables, and a drizzle of extra bang bang sauce for a trendy, nourishing meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover salmon and sauce separate in airtight containers in the fridge to maintain freshness. The cooked salmon will stay good for up to two days. The sauce can last up to a week refrigerated, making it convenient for quick meals.

Freezing

While fresh salmon is best enjoyed immediately, you can freeze cooked salmon for up to one month. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap followed by foil or use a vacuum-sealed bag to prevent freezer burn. The bang bang sauce does not freeze as well, so prepare a fresh batch when reheating if possible.

Reheating

To reheat leftover salmon without drying it out, gently warm it in a skillet over medium-low heat for just a few minutes. Avoid microwaving to prevent uneven heating. Add the sauce cold or at room temperature right before serving for the best flavor contrast.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon for this Bang Bang Salmon with Spicy Thai Chili Sauce Recipe?

Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the salmon fully and pat it dry before cooking to achieve the best sear and texture. Fresh salmon will yield the best flavor, but frozen is a fine alternative if handled correctly.

Is this recipe very spicy?

This Bang Bang Salmon with Spicy Thai Chili Sauce Recipe has a balanced level of heat. Thanks to the sweet Thai chili sauce and sriracha, it’s spicy but mellowed by creamy mayo and lime zest. You can adjust the sriracha to make it milder or hotter to suit your taste buds.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes! The bang bang sauce benefits from sitting in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving, as it allows the flavors to develop beautifully. You can make it a day ahead and keep it chilled until ready to use.

What if I don’t have sweet Thai chili sauce?

If you don’t have sweet Thai chili sauce, you can substitute it with a combination of honey or sugar with chili garlic sauce or use a sweet and spicy Asian dipping sauce. It won’t be exactly the same, but it will still be delicious.

Can I bake the salmon instead of searing?

Yes, baking is an option. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the seasoned salmon for about 12 to 15 minutes, depending on thickness. While you won’t get the same crispy edges, the fish will still be tender and flavorful for this recipe.

Final Thoughts

This Bang Bang Salmon with Spicy Thai Chili Sauce Recipe is one of those dishes that feels effortlessly luxurious yet is surprisingly simple to make. The marriage of tender salmon with that creamy, spicy, tangy sauce is something you’ll want to come back to over and over again. Whether you’re feeding family or impressing friends, give it a try — your dinner table is about to get a serious upgrade in flavor and excitement.

Bang Bang Salmon with Spicy Thai Chili Sauce Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need