Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp: Crispy, Sweet, and Spicy Perfection

Craving a restaurant-style appetizer that’s quick, easy, and healthier? This Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp is the answer! Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and coated in a sweet and spicy sauce, this dish is perfect for a light meal or party snack. Plus, it’s made in the air fryer, so you get all the crunch without the extra oil. Let’s dive into this irresistible recipe!

Ingredients and Preparation Steps

What You’ll Need:

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• ¼ cup sweet chili sauce
• 1 tbsp sriracha sauce
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup panko bread crumbs
• 1 lb raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 head loose leaf lettuce
• 2 green onions, chopped (optional)

Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer

First, preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the shrimp cook evenly and get perfectly crispy.

Step 2: Make the Bang Bang Sauce

Next, mix the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha in a bowl until smooth. Set aside a small amount for dipping, if desired.

Step 3: Prepare the Coating

After, place the flour on one plate and the panko bread crumbs on another. This setup makes coating the shrimp quick and easy.

Step 4: Coat the Shrimp

Then, coat each shrimp in flour, dip it into the Bang Bang sauce, and roll it in panko. Place the coated shrimp on a baking sheet.

Step 5: Air Fry the Shrimp

Finally, air fry the shrimp in batches for 12 minutes, ensuring they’re not overcrowded. This ensures even cooking and maximum crispiness.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the shrimp in lettuce wraps, garnished with chopped green onions. Enjoy this crispy, flavorful dish!

The Best Time to Savor Your Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp

This Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp is perfect for game day, parties, or a quick weeknight dinner. Pair it with a side of Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta or Butternut Squash Soup for a complete meal. The sweet, spicy, and crunchy flavors will have everyone coming back for more!

Frequently Asked Questions About Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes! Thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before coating to ensure the breading sticks properly.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes to restore crispiness.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free flour and panko bread crumbs for a gluten-free version of this dish.

What can I serve with Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp?

Serve it in lettuce wraps, over rice, or with a side of Gochujang Noodles for a delicious meal.

Pro Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp

Want to take your Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp to the next level? These expert tips will help you achieve the best results every time:

1. Pat the Shrimp Dry: Before coating, make sure the shrimp are completely dry. This helps the breading stick better and ensures a crispy texture.
2. Don’t Overcrowd the Air Fryer: Cook the shrimp in batches to allow proper air circulation, which is key to achieving even crispiness.
3. Spray with Cooking Oil: Lightly spray the coated shrimp with cooking oil before air frying. This helps the panko bread crumbs crisp up beautifully.
4. Adjust the Spice Level: Customize the heat by adding more or less sriracha to the Bang Bang sauce, depending on your preference.
5. Serve Immediately: For the best texture, serve the shrimp right after air frying. If needed, reheat leftovers in the air fryer for a few minutes to restore crispiness.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Here’s how to store and reheat your Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp to keep it fresh and delicious:

• Storage: Store leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-4 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make the shrimp soggy.
• Freezing: While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the cooked shrimp for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the air fryer before serving.

Perfect Pairings for Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp

This dish is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides and dishes. Here are some ideas to inspire you:

• Lettuce Wraps: Serve the shrimp in fresh lettuce wraps for a light, crunchy meal.
• Rice or Noodles: Pair it with steamed rice or Gochujang Noodles for a more filling option.
• Salad: Add the shrimp to a fresh green salad for a protein-packed lunch or dinner.
• Dipping Sauces: Serve with extra Bang Bang sauce, ranch, or Creamy Cajun Sauce for dipping.

We’d love to hear how your Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp turned out! Did you try any fun variations like adding extra spice or serving it with a unique dipping sauce? Share your experiences and tips in the comments below—your ideas might inspire others to get creative in the kitchen!

For a special touch, try serving this dish as part of a party platter. Pair it with Cranberry Brie Bites and Creamy Tortellini Soup for a spread that’s sure to impress. If you’re feeling adventurous, experiment with different coatings: try crushed cornflakes or almond flour for a gluten-free twist.

Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family. Tag us on social media using #bangbangshrimp and #airfryerrecipes so we can see your delicious creations. For more quick and tasty recipes, subscribe to our newsletter and get exclusive content delivered straight to your inbox.

Happy cooking, and enjoy every bite of this crispy, flavorful shrimp!