Since the air fryer revolutionized home cooking, this Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp recipe has been a true game-changer. Introduced in 2016, it quickly convinced skeptics that this kitchen gadget was more than just a passing fad. With its irresistible combination of crispiness, lightning-fast preparation, and that coveted, creamy, spicy-sweet sauce, it’s no wonder this dish became an instant sensation. Having personally tested and perfected air fryer recipes for nearly a decade, I can confidently say that this one isn’t just good—it’s phenomenal, consistently delivering restaurant-quality results right in your own kitchen.
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This post was originally published in September 2017 and has since been updated for enhanced clarity, improved instructions, and even more helpful tips.
Forget the guesswork and bland imitations. This air fryer bang bang shrimp recipe stands shoulder-to-shoulder with, or even surpasses, your favorite restaurant version. It offers all the crispy texture and bold flavors you crave, but with a lighter touch and the undeniable convenience of homemade preparation. My extensive experience developing air fryer recipes means I’ve cracked the code to achieving that perfect, satisfying crunch every single time, ensuring your shrimp are never soggy or undercooked. You’re about to discover a remarkably easy way to enjoy this beloved dish, making it a regular fixture in your meal rotation.
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What People Love About This Recipe
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“I made this recipe tonight… the first one in my new air fryer. Can I just say YUM!!!!! Super easy and very tasty, especially with the spicy sauce! I’ll definitely be making this again! Thanks for the delicious recipe!”
~Donna
Donna’s glowing review perfectly captures why this Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp recipe has garnered such immense popularity. It’s not just about the incredible taste; it’s about the simplicity, the speed, and the sheer delight of creating something so flavorful with minimal effort. This dish has a way of becoming an instant family favorite and a go-to for entertaining, consistently impressing everyone who tries it with its perfect texture and unforgettable sauce.
Understanding Bang Bang Shrimp: A Culinary Delight
Bang Bang Shrimp is a beloved appetizer, famously popularized by Bonefish Grill, that has captured the hearts and palates of seafood lovers everywhere. At its core, it features succulent shrimp, lightly coated and fried to a golden crisp, then generously tossed in a signature creamy, spicy, and subtly sweet “Bang Bang Sauce.” This sauce is typically a harmonious blend of mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and a touch of Sriracha for that unmistakable kick.
What makes this dish so addictive is its masterful balance: the delicate crunch of the fried shrimp contrasts beautifully with the smooth, rich sauce, while the heat from the Sriracha is perfectly tempered by the sweetness of the chili sauce. It’s an explosion of textures and flavors in every bite. Traditionally, this dish involves deep frying, which, while delicious, can be messy and oil-heavy. Our air fryer version, however, allows you to achieve all that coveted crispy goodness with significantly less oil, making it a lighter yet equally satisfying and flavorful alternative. Whether served as an appetizer, stuffed into tacos, or perched atop a bed of rice, it’s a versatile dish that always delivers.
The Air Fryer Advantage: Healthier, Crispier Results
If you’re looking for a way to enjoy fried foods without the guilt or the mess, the air fryer is your best friend, especially for a dish like Bang Bang Shrimp. This revolutionary appliance circulates hot air around the food, mimicking the effects of deep frying to create an incredibly crispy exterior with very little oil. For shrimp, this means you get that desirable crunch without soaking up excessive grease, resulting in a lighter and healthier meal.
Beyond the health benefits, air frying offers unparalleled convenience. It preheats quickly, cooks food rapidly, and requires minimal cleanup compared to traditional frying methods. You’ll avoid splattering oil, greasy stovetops, and the need to dispose of used cooking oil. The consistent heat distribution also ensures that your shrimp cook evenly, preventing rubbery textures and delivering perfectly cooked, juicy shrimp every time. It’s a win-win for flavor, health, and ease!
Gathering Your Ingredients: What You’ll Need
Crafting the perfect Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp starts with selecting the right ingredients. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need and some helpful tips for each:
- Shrimp: When perusing the seafood counter, you’ll encounter a variety of options: raw, pre-cooked, frozen, deveined, with tails on or off, and in various sizes. For this recipe, I highly recommend using large, raw shrimp, peeled and deveined. Since this recipe is designed to be a handheld delight or a star component of a meal, the size makes a difference. Avoid pre-cooked shrimp; they’ve already been cooked once, frozen, and re-cooking them often leads to a rubbery, overdone texture. Raw shrimp cooks in just minutes in the air fryer and offers a far superior flavor and texture. Ensure they are thoroughly patted dry before seasoning and breading to guarantee maximum crispiness.
- Seafood Seasoning or Old Bay Seasoning: These classic seasonings provide a robust and savory base for your shrimp, enhancing their natural flavor and complementing the forthcoming sauce. Feel free to use your favorite brand or a homemade blend.
- Paprika: A touch of paprika adds a beautiful color and a mild, earthy, slightly sweet flavor. I particularly love using smoked paprika for an extra layer of depth, but regular paprika works wonderfully too.
- Egg: Beaten eggs act as the essential binder, helping the flour and breadcrumbs adhere to the shrimp.
- All-Purpose Flour: The initial dredge in flour creates a dry surface for the egg to cling to, ensuring an even and secure breading.
- Panko Breadcrumbs: This is a crucial ingredient for achieving that signature crispy texture. Panko breadcrumbs are Japanese-style breadcrumbs that are coarser and flakier than traditional breadcrumbs, resulting in a much lighter and crunchier coating. Don’t skip these if you can help it!
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning the shrimp to taste before breading.
- Cooking Oil Spray: A light mist of cooking oil is necessary for activating the crisping process in the air fryer, ensuring a golden and crunchy exterior without excessive fat.
For the Signature Bang Bang Sauce:
- Plain Greek Yogurt or Sour Cream: While mayonnaise is traditional, I opt for plain Greek yogurt or sour cream to create a lighter, tangier, and protein-packed base for the sauce. Both work beautifully in equal parts, so choose based on your preference.
- Sriracha: This popular hot sauce provides the necessary heat and a vibrant, garlicky chili flavor. Adjust the amount to control the spice level.
- Sweet Chili Sauce: A sweet chili sauce is vital for balancing the heat and tang, adding a delightful sweetness and depth of flavor that defines the Bang Bang Sauce.
Step-by-Step: Crafting Your Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp
Making this incredible Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp is surprisingly straightforward. Follow these simple steps to achieve perfectly crispy, flavorful shrimp every time. Detailed measurements and full instructions are also provided in the comprehensive recipe card below.
- Prepare the Air Fryer: Begin by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This crucial step ensures that the shrimp starts cooking immediately upon entering the basket, promoting an even, crispy coating.
- Season the Shrimp: First, ensure your shrimp are thoroughly patted dry with paper towels. This removes excess moisture, which is key to a crispy exterior. In a bowl, toss the dried shrimp with seafood seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper until each piece is evenly coated.
- Set Up the Breading Station: Arrange three shallow bowls or plates in an assembly line. In the first bowl, place the all-purpose flour. In the second, pour the beaten egg. In the third, add the panko breadcrumbs. This setup streamlines the breading process.
- Bread the Shrimp: Take each seasoned shrimp and first dredge it lightly in the flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the beaten egg, allowing any extra to drip off. Finally, thoroughly coat the shrimp in the panko breadcrumbs, gently pressing to ensure the crumbs adhere well. This three-step process creates a robust, crispy coating.
- Air Fry Until Crispy: Lightly spray the inside of your air fryer basket with cooking oil. Arrange the breaded shrimp in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the basket. Cook for 4 minutes, then open the basket, flip each shrimp, and spray them again with a little oil. Continue cooking for another 4 minutes, or until the shrimp are golden brown and deliciously crisp. Cook in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding.
- Make the Bang Bang Sauce: While the shrimp are cooking, prepare the star sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt (or sour cream), Sriracha, and sweet chili sauce until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust the spice or sweetness to your preference.
- Toss and Serve: Once the shrimp are perfectly cooked and crispy, you have two options for serving. You can either gently toss the shrimp lightly in the prepared Bang Bang Sauce for a full coating, or serve the sauce on the side as a delectable dipping sauce. Serving the sauce on the side helps maintain the shrimp’s crispiness for longer. Serve immediately while hot and fresh!
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Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe
When I first started air frying in 2016, this bang bang shrimp was one of the recipes that made people finally take the gadget seriously. It’s quick, crunchy, and covered in that sauce everyone goes crazy for. I’ve been testing and sharing air fryer recipes for nearly a decade now, so when I say this one works, trust me, it does.
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Ingredients
- 1 pound raw shrimp peeled and deveined, large recommended
- 1-2 teaspoons seafood seasoning or Old Bay Seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika smoked paprika adds depth of flavor
- salt and pepper to taste
- 1 egg beaten
- ½ cup all purpose flour
- ¾ cup panko breadcrumbs
- cooking oil for spraying shrimp and air fryer basket
Bang Bang Sauce
- ⅓ cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 2 tablespoons Sriracha
- ¼ cup sweet chili sauce
Instructions
Preheat your Air Fryer to 400°F (200°C).
Pat the raw shrimp dry with paper towels. In a medium bowl, toss the shrimp with seafood seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
Prepare your breading station: Place the all-purpose flour in one shallow bowl, the beaten egg in a second bowl, and the panko breadcrumbs in a third bowl.
Dredge each shrimp in the flour, shaking off excess. Dip into the beaten egg, allowing excess to drip off. Finally, coat thoroughly in the panko breadcrumbs, gently pressing to ensure adhesion.
Lightly spray the breaded shrimp with cooking oil. Also, spray the air fryer basket to prevent sticking.
Place the shrimp in a single layer in the preheated air fryer basket, ensuring not to overcrowd. Cook for 4 minutes. Open the basket, flip the shrimp to the other side, spray again with a little oil, and cook for an additional 4 minutes or until golden brown and crisp. Cook in batches if necessary.
Bang Bang Sauce Preparation
In a small bowl, combine the plain Greek yogurt (or sour cream), Sriracha, and sweet chili sauce. Whisk thoroughly until smooth and well combined.
Recipe Notes
Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe Tips:
- Choose Large Shrimp: For the best eating experience, aim for the biggest shrimp or prawns you can find. Larger shrimp are easier to handle, cook more evenly, and make for a more satisfying bite.
- Sauce Strategy for Maximum Crispiness: Traditional bang bang shrimp is often tossed entirely in the sauce. However, to maintain the shrimp’s delightful crunch for as long as possible, I recommend serving the sauce as a separate dipping accompaniment. This keeps the breading from becoming soggy.
- Greek Yogurt for a Healthier Twist: I’ve opted for plain, non-fat Greek yogurt as a substitute for traditional mayonnaise in the sauce. It offers a lighter, tangier profile and provides an extra boost of protein, making the dish a bit healthier without sacrificing flavor. If you prefer, sour cream works equally well in the same quantities.
- Panko Power: While standard breadcrumbs can be used in a pinch, panko breadcrumbs are highly recommended. Their coarse, flaky texture is superior for achieving that extra-crispy, restaurant-quality crunch in the air fryer.
- Monitor Cook Time: Air fryers can vary, so use your judgment for the exact cooking time. I personally like my shrimp extra crispy, so 8-10 minutes (4 minutes per side) typically works perfectly for medium to large shrimp. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes to prevent overcooking, which can lead to a rubbery texture.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: For optimal crispiness and even cooking, ensure shrimp are placed in a single layer with some space between them. If your air fryer basket is small, cook in multiple batches. Overcrowding traps moisture and steams the shrimp instead of frying them.
- Preheating is Key: Always preheat your air fryer. This helps the shrimp start cooking immediately, locking in juices and ensuring the breading gets crispy from the start.
- Spray Generously: Don’t be shy with the cooking oil spray. A good mist on both sides of the breaded shrimp, and the air fryer basket itself, helps achieve that beautiful golden-brown color and irresistible crunch.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions About Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp
Absolutely! While it’s best to air fry the shrimp immediately after breading for maximum crispiness, you can definitely prep components in advance to save time:
Prep the Shrimp: Season the raw shrimp and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
Prep the Coating: In one bowl, combine the flour and any dry seasonings. In another, whisk the egg. In a third, prepare the panko breadcrumbs. Store each separately in airtight containers or zip-top bags at room temperature.
Make the Bang Bang Sauce: Whisk together the Greek yogurt (or sour cream), sweet chili sauce, and Sriracha. Store it in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
When Ready to Cook: Dredge the shrimp in the coating right before air frying. This prevents the breading from becoming soggy. Then, air fry and toss in the sauce as usual!
Knowing when shrimp are perfectly cooked is crucial to avoid a rubbery texture. Here are some indicators:
Color Change: Raw shrimp are typically gray and translucent. As they cook, they turn opaque white with pink or orange hues on the outside.
Shape: Perfectly cooked shrimp will curl into a loose “C” shape. If they tighten into a very tight “O” shape, they are likely overcooked and may be tough.
Texture: When gently pressed, cooked shrimp should feel firm but still springy. Overcooked shrimp will feel hard and rubbery.
Yes, you can absolutely use frozen shrimp for this recipe, but they must be properly thawed first. Attempting to cook frozen shrimp directly will lead to a watery, unevenly cooked result that won’t get crispy.
Quick Thaw Method: Place the frozen shrimp in a colander and rinse under cold running water for 5-7 minutes, tossing occasionally, until fully thawed.
Overnight Thaw Method: Transfer the frozen shrimp to a bowl and refrigerate overnight. Before using, drain any excess liquid.
After thawing, pat the shrimp completely dry with paper towels. This step is critical for the breading to adhere properly and for the shrimp to achieve maximum crispiness in the air fryer.
For raw, frozen shrimp (if you skipped the thawing part, though not recommended for optimal results), you would typically cook them for about 10 minutes at 360°F (180°C), then an additional 5 minutes at 400°F (200°C) or until crisp, adding seasoning after they are no longer frozen but before crisping.
If you prefer a lighter, breading-free version of air fryer shrimp, simply omit the flour, egg, and panko breadcrumbs from this recipe. You’ll still want to season the shrimp generously with the seafood seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Lightly spray the shrimp and the air fryer basket with cooking oil, then cook at 400°F (200°C) for about 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway, until pink and cooked through. The cook time will remain similar, but always keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking.
Proper storage and reheating are key to enjoying your leftover Bang Bang Shrimp.
Storage: Store any leftover cooked shrimp tightly covered in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Store the Bang Bang Sauce separately to maintain shrimp crispiness.
Reheating for Crispiness (Recommended):
Air Fryer: This is the best method for restoring crispiness. Reheat at 375°F (190°C) for 3-4 minutes, or until heated through and crisp.
Oven or Toaster Oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°C). Place shrimp on a baking sheet with a wire rack (this helps air circulate and keeps them crispy) and reheat for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through.
Stovetop (Quick & Easy): Heat a nonstick pan over medium heat with a tiny bit of oil. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes, flipping once, until heated through. Avoid overcrowding the pan.
Microwave (Not Recommended): While possible, reheating in the microwave will cause the shrimp to lose their crispiness and become soggy. If you must use it, reheat in 15-second intervals, but expect a softer texture.
Yes, with a few simple substitutions! Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend or cornstarch. Ensure your panko breadcrumbs are certified gluten-free (many brands offer them now). All other ingredients, including the seasonings and sauce components, are typically gluten-free, but always double-check labels to be safe.
The spice level of the Bang Bang Sauce is easily customizable. For a milder sauce, start with just 1 tablespoon of Sriracha and taste before adding more. For extra heat, you can increase the Sriracha to 3 tablespoons or even add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce. Always taste as you go to achieve your desired level of spice.
Pro Tips for Perfect Bang Bang Shrimp
- Go Big on Shrimp: Seriously, the bigger the shrimp or prawns you can find, the better this recipe will be. Larger shrimp are more forgiving to cook and provide a more satisfying bite, making them a major win for this dish.
- Sauce on the Side is Best: While traditional bang bang shrimp is often tossed directly in the sauce, I’ve found that serving the sauce as a separate dipping option is superior. This simple trick ensures your crispy air-fried shrimp stay crunchy for as long as possible, preventing them from becoming soggy.
- Greek Yogurt: Your Healthier Secret Weapon: My recipe incorporates plain, non-fat Greek yogurt into the Bang Bang Sauce as a lighter, protein-rich alternative to sour cream or mayonnaise. It adds a delicious tang and creaminess without the extra fat. However, if you prefer the classic taste, sour cream or even mayonnaise can be used in equal parts.
- Panko for Premium Crunch: If you’re aiming for that irresistible, light, and airy crispiness, panko breadcrumbs are non-negotiable. Their unique flaky texture outperforms standard breadcrumbs in the air fryer every time. If you absolutely don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs will work, but expect a slightly denser crunch.
- Trust Your Eyes (and Ears!): Air fryer models can vary, so always use your judgment for the perfect cook time. I personally love my shrimp extra crispy, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Listen for that tell-tale sizzle and look for a beautiful golden-brown color. A slightly longer cook time might be needed for very large shrimp or if you prefer a darker crisp.
- The Golden Rule: Don’t Overcrowd: This is arguably the most important air fryer tip! Arranging shrimp in a single layer with space between each piece allows hot air to circulate freely, ensuring every shrimp gets perfectly crispy. Overcrowding will steam the shrimp, resulting in a soggy, less appealing texture. Work in batches if necessary.
- Preheat for Perfection: Just like a conventional oven, preheating your air fryer is crucial. A hot air fryer immediately crisps the exterior of the shrimp, locking in moisture and preventing a chewy texture.
- Oil is Your Friend (in moderation): A light spritz of cooking oil spray on the breaded shrimp and in the air fryer basket is essential. This helps achieve that beautiful golden-brown color and the desired crispy texture, ensuring your shrimp aren’t dry or pale.
Serving Suggestions: Ways to Enjoy Your Shrimp
Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in numerous ways, whether as a vibrant appetizer or a satisfying main course. Here are some delicious ideas to get you started:
- As an Appetizer: Serve the crispy shrimp with a side of shredded cabbage or crisp lettuce for a refreshing crunch. Garnish with chopped green onions or cilantro.
- Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos: Load the shrimp into warm tortillas with a dollop of sauce, a sprinkle of fresh slaw, and a squeeze of lime for an unforgettable taco night.
- Shrimp Bowls: Create a hearty bowl by serving the shrimp over a bed of fluffy white or brown rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. Add some steamed vegetables like broccoli or edamame.
- Salad Topper: Elevate any green salad by adding these crispy shrimp. The spicy-sweet flavor pairs wonderfully with mixed greens, avocado, and a light vinaigrette.
- Lettuce Wraps: For a lighter meal, use large lettuce cups (like butter or iceberg lettuce) as wraps for the shrimp and sauce.
Pair this incredible shrimp with complementary side dishes to complete your meal:
- Air Fryer French Fries: The ultimate crispy side to match your crispy shrimp.
- Air Fryer Baked Sweet Potatoes: A slightly sweet and wholesome contrast.
- Panda Express Kung Pao Chicken: If you’re making an Asian-inspired feast, this is a fantastic accompaniment.
- Air Fryer Asparagus: A simple, healthy green vegetable that cooks quickly alongside.
Discover More Air Fryer Recipes
If you’ve fallen in love with the convenience and delicious results of air frying, you’re in luck! There’s a whole world of quick, healthy, and incredibly tasty recipes waiting for you. Expand your air fryer repertoire with some of these other fantastic seafood and veggie-focused dishes:
- Air Fryer Fish Sandwich
- Shrimp Egg Rolls
- Air Fryer Crispy Sweet Potato Fries
- Shrimp Parmesan (Parmigiana)
There you have it – the ultimate guide to making crispy, flavorful Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp at home. This recipe is a testament to how easy it is to achieve restaurant-quality results with your air fryer, making healthy and delicious meals accessible to everyone. Whether you’re whipping it up for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive appetizer for guests, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit. So grab your shrimp, fire up your air fryer, and get ready to enjoy a truly sensational meal!