When it comes to quick, delicious, and satisfying meals, few dishes capture hearts quite like Bang Bang Shrimp. And if you thought this restaurant favorite was only achievable through deep-frying, think again! Our Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp recipe brings all the crispy, creamy, and spicy goodness you crave right into your kitchen, using the power of the air fryer to deliver a lighter yet equally irresistible version. Having tested and perfected air fryer recipes for nearly a decade, I can confidently say this recipe is a game-changer – it truly works every single time.
This air fryer rendition of Bang Bang Shrimp stands out as a triumph, delivering incredible crispiness and robust flavor that rivals any restaurant. Forget bland, overcooked shrimp or the hassle of traditional deep-frying. Through years of dedicated recipe development, I’ve honed the techniques to achieve that perfect golden-brown crunch in the air fryer, ensuring your homemade Bang Bang Shrimp will be a consistent hit.
What Makes This Recipe a Favorite?
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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
The overwhelming positive feedback for this recipe isn’t just a fluke – it’s a testament to its simplicity, speed, and undeniable deliciousness. Home cooks consistently rave about how easy it is to prepare, even for those new to air frying. The magic truly lies in the balance: perfectly crispy shrimp coated in a vibrant, creamy, and subtly spicy sauce that excites the palate. This dish has a way of converting skeptics, proving that healthy cooking can be incredibly flavorful and satisfying. It’s a versatile dish that fits perfectly into busy weeknights or special occasions, leaving everyone asking for more.
Understanding Air Fried Bang Bang Shrimp
Bang Bang Shrimp is a beloved appetizer, famously popularized by Bonefish Grill, known for its delightful combination of crispy texture, creamy coating, and a tantalizing kick of spice. The classic dish features tender shrimp, lightly breaded and fried to golden perfection, then generously tossed in a signature Bang Bang Sauce. This iconic sauce is typically a harmonious blend of creamy mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and a dash of Sriracha for that irresistible warmth.
The appeal of Bang Bang Shrimp lies in its textural contrast and complex flavor profile – the satisfying crunch of the breading gives way to succulent shrimp, all enveloped in a sauce that balances sweetness, tang, and heat beautifully. It’s a dish that can effortlessly elevate any meal, often served as a standalone appetizer, nestled into soft tacos, or spooned over a bed of fluffy rice for a more substantial main course.
Our air fryer version captures all these cherished qualities without the need for traditional deep-frying. By utilizing the circulating hot air of the air fryer, we achieve an incredible crispiness with significantly less oil, making it a lighter and healthier alternative. This method not only simplifies the cooking process but also reduces cleanup, proving that you don’t have to sacrifice flavor or texture for a more convenient and health-conscious meal at home. You get the same addictive crunch and creamy, spicy sauce, but with the added benefits of air frying.
Essential Ingredients for Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp
Crafting the perfect Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp requires a few key components, each playing a vital role in achieving that sought-after texture and flavor. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and why certain choices make all the difference:
- Shrimp: The foundation of our dish! When selecting shrimp, you’ll encounter various options: raw, pre-cooked, frozen, deveined, with tails on or off, and different sizes. For this recipe, I highly recommend choosing large, raw shrimp, peeled and deveined, ideally with the tails left on. This makes them easier to handle and provides a professional presentation. Skip the pre-cooked varieties entirely; they’ve already been cooked once, and reheating them often leads to a rubbery, overdone texture. Raw shrimp, on the other hand, cooks quickly and maintains its tender, flavorful integrity in the air fryer.
- Seafood Seasoning or Old Bay Seasoning: A classic choice for enhancing the natural flavors of shrimp. These seasonings typically feature a blend of spices like paprika, celery salt, black pepper, and more, adding a savory depth and a subtle kick to the shrimp before breading.
- Paprika: Contributes a beautiful color and a mild, earthy flavor to the shrimp. Smoked paprika, in particular, can add a delightful smoky nuance that complements the seafood.
- Egg: Acts as the crucial binding agent for the breading, helping the flour and panko adhere securely to the shrimp.
- All-Purpose Flour: Provides the initial layer for the breading, creating a slightly sticky surface for the egg to cling to, ensuring an even coating.
- Panko Breadcrumbs: The secret to ultimate crispiness! Panko breadcrumbs are coarser and flakier than traditional breadcrumbs, resulting in a much lighter, airier, and crunchier crust when air-fried. If panko isn’t available, regular breadcrumbs can be used, but the texture won’t be quite as light.
- Greek Yogurt or Sour Cream: Forms the creamy base of our Bang Bang Sauce. Plain Greek yogurt is a fantastic choice for a lighter, protein-boosted sauce, offering a tangy balance. Sour cream provides a richer, classic creaminess. Both work wonderfully.
- Sriracha: Brings the heat! This popular chili sauce delivers a vibrant, garlicky spice that is essential for the “bang” in Bang Bang Shrimp. Adjust the amount to your preferred spice level.
- Sweet Chili Sauce: Adds a sweet and tangy counterpoint to the Sriracha, creating a perfectly balanced flavor profile for the sauce. Its sticky consistency also helps in creating a luscious coating.
- Cooking Oil Spray: Essential for achieving that golden, crispy exterior in the air fryer. A light mist of oil ensures the breading browns beautifully without excessive fat.
- Salt and Pepper: Basic seasonings to bring out the best in the shrimp and balance the overall flavors.
How to Master Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp
Achieving perfectly crispy and flavorful Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp is surprisingly simple, thanks to the efficiency of the air fryer. Follow these steps for a guaranteed delicious outcome:
- Prepare the Shrimp: Begin by thoroughly patting your raw shrimp dry with paper towels. This crucial step helps the seasonings and breading adhere better, leading to a crispier finish. In a bowl, toss the dried shrimp with your chosen seafood seasoning (or Old Bay) and paprika, ensuring each piece is evenly coated with the aromatic spices.
- Set Up Your Breading Station: Organize three shallow bowls to create an efficient breading station. In the first bowl, place the all-purpose flour. In the second, pour the lightly beaten egg. In the third, spread out 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 egg to drip off. Finally, coat the shrimp generously in the panko breadcrumbs, gently pressing to ensure the crumbs stick firmly to all sides. Repeat for all shrimp.
- Air Fry to Golden Perfection: Lightly spray the basket of your air fryer with cooking oil to prevent sticking and aid in crisping. Arrange the breaded shrimp in a single layer in the air fryer basket, being careful not to overcrowd it, as this can lead to uneven cooking and less crispiness. Depending on your air fryer model and shrimp size, air fry at 400°F (200°C) for approximately 4 minutes. Open the basket, flip each shrimp to the other side, and continue air frying for another 3-5 minutes, or until the shrimp are beautifully golden brown and delightfully crispy.
- Craft the Irresistible Bang Bang Sauce: While the shrimp are air frying, prepare the star of the show – the Bang Bang Sauce. In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt (or sour cream), Sriracha, and sweet chili sauce until the mixture is completely smooth and well combined. Taste and adjust the Sriracha if you prefer more or less heat.
- Toss and Serve Immediately: Once the shrimp are cooked and piping hot, you have two options: either lightly toss them directly in the prepared Bang Bang Sauce for a full coating, or serve the sauce on the side for dipping. Serving immediately ensures maximum crispiness. Enjoy your homemade Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp!
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.
Course: dinner, lunch
Cuisine: American
Keyword: air fryer bang bang shrimp, air fryer fried shrimp, air fryer shrimp
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 242 kcal
Author: Brandi Crawford
Ingredients
- 1 pound raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1-2 teaspoons seafood seasoning or Old Bay Seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika (I used smoked paprika)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 egg, beaten
- ½ cup all purpose flour
- ¾ cup panko breadcrumbs
- Cooking oil spray
Bang Bang Sauce
- ⅓ cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 2 tablespoons Sriracha
- ¼ cup sweet chili sauce
Instructions
- Preheat Air Fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200°C).
- Pat the shrimp dry and season with seafood seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Prepare three separate shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten egg, and one with panko breadcrumbs.
- Create your breading station. Dip each shrimp in flour, then egg, and finally coat thoroughly in panko breadcrumbs, gently pressing for adherence.
- Lightly spray the breaded shrimp with cooking oil.
- Place the shrimp in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring not to overcrowd. Cook for 4 minutes. Open the basket, flip the shrimp, and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, or until golden brown and crisp.
Bang Bang Sauce
- In a small bowl, combine Greek yogurt (or sour cream), Sriracha, and sweet chili sauce. Whisk thoroughly until smooth.
Notes
Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe Tips:
- For the best experience, seek out the largest shrimp or prawns you can find! Larger shrimp make for a more satisfying bite and are easier to handle.
- Traditional bang bang shrimp is often tossed directly in the sauce. To maintain maximum crispiness, I recommend serving the sauce on the side as a dipping sauce. This way, the shrimp stays crunchy until the very last bite.
- Using plain, non-fat Greek yogurt in the dipping sauce is a fantastic way to lighten the recipe and add a protein boost. If you prefer, sour cream can be used in equal parts for a classic, richer flavor.
- If panko breadcrumbs aren’t available, standard breadcrumbs will work just fine, though panko provides a noticeably lighter and crispier texture.
- Always trust your judgment for cook time, as air fryer models can vary. I personally enjoy my shrimp extra crispy, so 8-10 minutes (with a flip halfway) is usually perfect for me. Adjust based on your desired level of crispness and shrimp size.
Recipe Tools Used in this Recipe
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Cosori Air Fryer
Air Fryer Parchment Paper
Air Fryer Oil Spray Bottle
Nutrition (displayed with net carbs)
Serving: 1 serving | Calories: 242kcal | Carbohydrates: 32g | Protein: 37g | Fat: 1g
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Nutrition Data
Macros are provided as a courtesy and should not be construed as a guarantee. This information is calculated using MyFitnessPal.com. To obtain the most accurate nutritional information in a given recipe, you should calculate the nutritional information with the actual ingredients used in your recipe, using your preferred nutrition calculator. You are solely responsible for ensuring that any nutritional information provided is accurate, complete, and useful.
Frequently Asked Questions About Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp
While it’s best to bread and air fry shrimp just before serving for maximum crispiness, you can certainly prepare components in advance to make mealtime quicker. Here’s how:
- Prep the Shrimp: Season the raw shrimp and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
- Prep the Coating: In one bowl, combine flour and any dry seasonings. In a second bowl, whisk your egg. In a third, have your panko breadcrumbs ready. Store each separately in airtight containers or zip-top bags at room temperature until ready to use.
- Make the Bang Bang Sauce: Whisk together mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), sweet chili sauce, and Sriracha. Store this creamy sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Its flavors actually meld beautifully over time!
- When Ready to Cook: Dredge the shrimp in the coating right before you plan to air fry them. Breading them too early can cause the crumbs to become soggy, diminishing that desired crunch. Then, air fry and enjoy!
Perfectly cooked shrimp are a delight, but overcooked shrimp can quickly turn rubbery. Here’s how to tell when your air fryer bang bang shrimp is ready:
- Color Change: Raw shrimp are typically grayish and translucent. As they cook, they will turn opaque white with a beautiful pink or orange hue on the outside.
- Shape: Properly cooked shrimp will curl into a loose “C” shape. If your shrimp curl tightly into an “O” shape, they are likely overcooked and will be tough.
- Texture: When gently pressed, cooked shrimp should feel firm yet still slightly springy.
Absolutely, you can use frozen shrimp for this recipe, but it’s essential to thaw them thoroughly beforehand. Here are the best methods for thawing:
- Quick Thaw: Place the frozen shrimp in a colander and run cold water over them for about 5-7 minutes, tossing occasionally to ensure even thawing.
- Overnight Thaw: For a more hands-off approach, transfer the frozen shrimp to a bowl and let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
Once thawed, always pat the shrimp completely dry with paper towels. Excess moisture is the enemy of crispiness! If you have raw, frozen shrimp and wish to cook them from frozen in the air fryer, a good starting point is 10 minutes at 360°F (180°C), then an additional 5 minutes at 400°F (200°C) until crisp. Remember to season the shrimp once they are no longer frozen but before they get crispy.
If you prefer a lighter, gluten-free, or simpler version of air fryer shrimp without the breading, it’s incredibly easy to adapt this recipe. Simply omit the flour, egg, and panko breadcrumbs. You’ll still want to pat the shrimp dry and season them generously with seafood seasoning and paprika. Lightly spray them with oil before air frying. The cook time will remain similar, typically 8-10 minutes at 400°F (200°C), flipping halfway, until they are opaque and pink. This method yields wonderfully tender and flavorful shrimp perfect for tossing in the Bang Bang Sauce.
Leftover Air Fried Bang Bang Shrimp can be a delightful treat! To store them, place any un-sauced shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If the shrimp has already been tossed in the sauce, consume within 1-2 days, as the sauce can soften the breading over time.
For reheating, preserving that crispy texture is key:
- Air Fryer (Recommended for Best Crispiness): The air fryer is your best friend for reheating! Place leftover shrimp in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Reheat at 375°F (190°C) for 3-4 minutes, or until thoroughly heated and re-crisped.
- Oven or Toaster Oven: For those without an air fryer, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the shrimp on a baking sheet, ideally with a wire rack underneath to promote air circulation and maintain crispiness. Reheat for 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through and crunchy.
- Stovetop (Quick & Easy): Heat a nonstick pan over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes, flipping once. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure they heat evenly and stay crisp.
- Microwave (Not Recommended): While technically possible, reheating shrimp in the microwave is not recommended if you value crispiness. The microwave will steam the shrimp, causing the breading to become soggy. If you absolutely must use it, reheat in short 15-second intervals, but be prepared for a softer texture.
Top Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Shrimp
To ensure your Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp turns out perfectly every time, keep these expert tips in mind:
- Go Big on Shrimp: Always opt for the largest shrimp or prawns you can find. Larger shrimp not only offer a more substantial and satisfying bite but are also easier to handle during the breading process and less prone to overcooking.
- Maintain Maximum Crispiness: While many Bang Bang Shrimp recipes call for tossing the shrimp directly in the sauce, I highly recommend serving the luscious Bang Bang Sauce on the side as a dipping sauce. This ingenious trick ensures that your air-fried shrimp retain their incredible crispiness for as long as possible, preventing the breading from becoming soggy.
- Smart Sauce Swaps: For a lighter, healthier twist that also packs a protein punch, use plain, non-fat Greek yogurt as the base for your Bang Bang Sauce instead of traditional mayonnaise. If you prefer the classic richness, sour cream works beautifully as well, in equal parts. Both options deliver a delicious, creamy foundation for the spicy and sweet flavors.
- Panko for Perfection: Panko breadcrumbs are truly the secret weapon for achieving that coveted light, airy, and super crispy texture in air-fried dishes. Their larger, flakier structure creates a superior crunch compared to standard breadcrumbs. However, if panko isn’t available, don’t fret – regular breadcrumbs will still yield tasty results.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: This is a golden rule for all air frying! Arrange your breaded shrimp in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving a little space between each piece. Overcrowding prevents the hot air from circulating effectively, leading to steamed (rather than crispy) shrimp. If necessary, cook in batches.
- A Little Oil Goes a Long Way: A light spray of cooking oil on the breaded shrimp before air frying is crucial. This helps the breading turn golden brown and ensures that delightful crisp exterior.
How to Serve
Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp is incredibly versatile and can be served in numerous ways, making it perfect for appetizers, light lunches, or even a flavorful main course. Here are some fantastic serving suggestions to inspire your next meal:
As a Standalone Appetizer: Arrange the crispy shrimp on a platter, garnished with fresh cilantro or thinly sliced green onions, alongside a bowl of the creamy Bang Bang Sauce for dipping. For an extra touch, serve it on a bed of shredded cabbage or crisp lettuce to add a refreshing crunch.
Over Rice: Transform this appetizer into a satisfying meal by serving it over a warm bed of jasmine rice, brown rice, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. The rice soaks up any extra sauce and complements the shrimp perfectly.
In Tacos: Create delicious Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos! Fill soft flour or corn tortillas with shredded lettuce, the crispy shrimp, a drizzle of the sauce, and perhaps some fresh avocado or a sprinkle of cotija cheese.
On a Salad: For a fresh and light meal, top a vibrant salad with your air-fried shrimp. A base of mixed greens, cucumbers, bell peppers, and a light vinaigrette would pair wonderfully.
In a Bowl: Build a custom Bang Bang Shrimp bowl with your favorite grains and veggies. Think quinoa, roasted vegetables, and a generous helping of shrimp and sauce.
To complete your meal, consider pairing this shrimp with delightful side dishes that complement its flavors and textures:
- Air Fryer French Fries: A classic pairing that delivers extra crispiness.
- Air Fryer Baked Sweet Potatoes: A wholesome and sweet contrast.
- Panda Express Kung Pao Chicken: For an Asian-inspired feast with varying protein options.
- Air Fryer Asparagus: A simple, healthy green vegetable that cooks quickly alongside the shrimp.
More Air Fryer Recipes
If you’ve fallen in love with the ease and delicious results of air frying, you’re in luck! The air fryer is a versatile kitchen appliance that can handle a wide array of dishes, from crispy appetizers to satisfying main courses. Here are more fantastic air fryer recipes to expand your culinary repertoire:
- Air Fryer Fish Sandwich: Enjoy a perfectly crispy fish fillet for a delicious sandwich, without the deep-fryer mess.
- Shrimp Egg Rolls: Get that irresistible crunch and savory filling of egg rolls, made healthier in your air fryer.
- Air Fryer Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: Achieve perfectly golden and crispy sweet potato fries every time, a great side for any meal.
- Shrimp Parmesan (Parmigiana): A comforting and cheesy classic, reinvented for the air fryer to be quick and easy.
These recipes demonstrate just how much you can achieve with your air fryer, making healthy and flavorful meals a regular occurrence in your home. Happy air frying!
