Step 1: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey (if using), and fresh lime juice until well combined and smooth. Set this flavorful sauce aside to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 2: Pat the salmon pieces dry with paper towels. In a medium bowl, season the salmon pieces evenly with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Next, set up your dredging station: place the flour in one shallow bowl, the beaten egg in a second, and the panko breadcrumbs in a third. Dip each salmon piece first into the flour, shaking off any excess, then into the egg, and finally coat thoroughly with panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
Step 3: In a large skillet or deep pot, heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable or canola oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers (around 350-375°F or 175-190°C). Carefully add the breaded salmon bites to the hot oil in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for approximately 3-4 minutes per side, or until they turn a beautiful golden brown and are crispy all over. Remove the cooked salmon bites and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. For a helpful frying guide, consider visiting Food Network's Deep Frying Tips.
Step 4: Once all the salmon bites are fried, transfer them to a large mixing bowl. Pour the prepared Bang Bang sauce over the crispy salmon. Gently toss until each and every bite is evenly coated in the rich, creamy, and spicy sauce.
Step 5: Serve your Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites immediately. Garnish with chopped green onions, a sprinkle of sesame seeds, or a wedge of lime for an extra touch of freshness and visual appeal.