Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp

Name: Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 cup panko breadcrumbs; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1 large egg, beaten; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce; 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce; 1 teaspoon lime juice

Highlighted under: Fast Meal Recipes

Crispy, spicy, and absolutely delicious, Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp is a must-try for seafood lovers. This dish is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, making it an ideal appetizer or main course.

Created by

Anna Johnson

Last updated on 2025-12-21T11:53:49.084Z

This Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp recipe is inspired by the popular appetizer found in many seafood restaurants. With a crispy coating and a creamy, spicy sauce, it's a dish that will impress your family and friends. Plus, using an air fryer makes it healthier without sacrificing flavor!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Crispy texture without the excess oil
Rich and bold flavor from the bang bang sauce
Quick and easy to prepare in just 25 minutes

      

Flavor Packed Perfection

Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp is not just another seafood dish; it’s a flavor explosion that elevates your dining experience. The combination of crispy shrimp and the creamy, spicy bang bang sauce creates a delightful contrast that tantalizes your taste buds. Each bite brings a satisfying crunch, followed by a burst of rich flavors, making it a favorite among seafood enthusiasts.

The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer for a party or as a main course for dinner, Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp fits the occasion perfectly. Its bold flavors and appealing presentation will impress your guests and leave them craving more.

Healthier Cooking Method

One of the standout features of this recipe is the air fryer cooking method. Unlike traditional frying, which often involves excessive oil, air frying uses hot air circulation to achieve a crispy exterior without the added calories and fat. This means you can indulge in the deliciousness of fried shrimp while keeping your meal lighter and healthier.

Using an air fryer not only reduces the oil content but also allows for a quicker cooking time. In just about 25 minutes, you can prepare a dish that typically takes much longer with conventional frying methods. This makes it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings.

Customization and Pairing Ideas

The bang bang sauce in this recipe is highly customizable. If you prefer it spicier, feel free to add more sriracha or a dash of cayenne pepper. Conversely, for a milder flavor, you can reduce the sriracha or even omit it entirely. This flexibility allows you to tailor the dish to your personal taste, ensuring everyone at the table can enjoy it.

When it comes to pairing, Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp shines alongside a fresh salad, steamed vegetables, or even a bed of rice. The dish also makes a fantastic topping for tacos or a filling in lettuce wraps, giving you endless options to explore. Don’t hesitate to get creative with your pairings to elevate the meal!

Ingredients

For the Shrimp

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1 large egg, beaten
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Bang Bang Sauce

1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
1 tablespoon sriracha sauce
1 teaspoon lime juice

Mix all the ingredients well to ensure a balanced flavor.

Instructions

Prepare the Shrimp

In a bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, place the flour and in a third bowl, the beaten egg. Dip each shrimp first in the flour, then in the egg, and finally into the panko mixture, ensuring they are well coated.

Cook the Shrimp

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the coated shrimp in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy, shaking the basket halfway through.

Make the Bang Bang Sauce

While the shrimp are cooking, mix the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and lime juice in a bowl until smooth. Adjust the spice level to your liking.

Serve

Once the shrimp are cooked, remove them from the air fryer and serve immediately with the bang bang sauce for dipping.

Enjoy your delicious Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp!

Tips for Perfect Shrimp

To achieve the best results, ensure your shrimp are well-coated before air frying. This not only enhances the flavor but also contributes to the crispy texture that is essential for this dish. Additionally, using large shrimp is recommended, as they hold up better during cooking and provide a satisfying bite.

It's also beneficial to keep the shrimp in a single layer in the air fryer basket. This allows the hot air to circulate effectively around each shrimp, ensuring even cooking and crispiness. If you're making a larger batch, consider cooking them in multiple rounds to maintain the quality.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers (though they’re unlikely!), store the cooked shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To maintain their crispy texture, it's best to reheat them in the air fryer for a few minutes rather than using a microwave, which can make them soggy.

For meal prep enthusiasts, you can prepare the shrimp and bang bang sauce ahead of time. Just keep the sauce refrigerated and coat the shrimp right before cooking. This way, you can enjoy a fresh, crispy meal in no time, with minimal effort during busy days.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, just ensure they are thawed and patted dry before coating.

→ What can I serve with Bang Bang Shrimp?

It's great with rice, salad, or as a topping for tacos.

→ Can I make the sauce in advance?

Absolutely! The bang bang sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ Is there a substitute for mayonnaise?

You can use Greek yogurt for a healthier alternative.