1-First Step: Gather all ingredients and tools. Cube 1 pound skinless salmon into 1-inch pieces. Pat dry thoroughly with paper towels this removes moisture for crispier results. Season lightly with salt and pepper. In three shallow bowls, set up your breading station: one with 1/4 cup cornstarch mixed with salt and pepper, one with 1 beaten egg, and one with 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs. Prep the sauce by whisking 1/2 cup mayo, 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce, 2 tbsp sriracha, 1 tbsp rice vinegar, and 1 tsp honey in a bowl. Chill it to thicken. Slice green onions, toast sesame seeds lightly, and cut lime wedges. This takes 10 minutes and sets you up for success.

2-Second Step: Dredge each salmon cube in the cornstarch mixture, shaking off excess. Dip into the beaten egg, letting extra drip off. Coat evenly in panko, pressing gently to adhere. Place breaded bites on a plate. Avoid overcrowding during breading to prevent sticking. For extra crunch, repeat the panko layer if desired. Pro tip: Use one hand for dry dredge and the other for wet to keep things clean. This step ensures flaky salmon inside with a golden crust.

3-Third Step: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F for 3-5 minutes. Lightly spray the basket with oil. Arrange salmon bites in a single layer cook in batches if needed to avoid steaming. Air fry for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket at the 5-minute mark for even browning. No need to flip. Check internal temperature reaches 145°F for safety. Smaller cubes take 7-8 minutes; larger ones 10-12. Basket-style air fryers work in 8 minutes, while oven-style may need 390°F for 10 minutes. Test a batch first. This yields 70% less fat than deep-frying. Total cook time per batch: under 15 minutes.

4-Fourth Step: While salmon cooks, taste and adjust sauce add more sriracha for heat or honey for sweetness. Remove hot bites from air fryer and let rest 1 minute. Toss gently in the bang bang sauce until coated. Garnish with sliced green onions, sesame seeds, and lime wedges. Serve immediately over jasmine rice, cucumber salad, or as bites with toothpicks. Pairs well with a refreshing berry trifle for dessert at parties. Full recipe doubles easily for crowds. Enjoy the sweet-spicy crunch!