Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp

Highlighted under: Fast & Simple Meals

Deliciously crispy and perfectly seasoned, these Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp are a delightful appetizer or main dish that everyone will love.

Olivia

Created by

Olivia

Last updated on 2025-12-21T13:13:48.735Z

Bang Bang Shrimp is a popular dish that originated in Asian cuisine, known for its spicy and creamy sauce paired with perfectly cooked shrimp. Using an air fryer not only makes this dish healthier but also retains its crispy texture. Perfect for a party or a cozy dinner, this recipe will be a hit!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Crispy texture without the excess oil
  • Rich and creamy bang bang sauce for flavor
  • Quick and easy recipe ready in under 30 minutes

The Perfect Appetizer

Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp is not just an appetizer; it’s the star of the show! The combination of crunchy, golden shrimp with a spicy, creamy sauce makes it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying a family dinner, or simply craving something delicious, this dish will satisfy your taste buds and impress your guests. Plus, the air fryer ensures you achieve that perfect crispiness without drowning the shrimp in oil.

Pair these crispy shrimp with fresh vegetables or serve them alongside a zesty dipping sauce for a complete appetizer spread. Their versatility allows you to enjoy them as a light snack or as part of a more elaborate meal. The balance of flavors and textures in this dish makes every bite a delightful experience.

Healthier Cooking with an Air Fryer

The air fryer revolutionizes the way we think about frying. By circulating hot air, it cooks food to perfection while using significantly less oil than traditional frying methods. This means you can indulge in delicious Bang Bang Shrimp without the guilt associated with extra calories and unhealthy fats. It’s a fantastic option for those looking to enjoy their favorite fried foods in a healthier manner.

Moreover, the air fryer retains the moisture of the shrimp, ensuring they remain succulent inside while achieving that sought-after crispy exterior. With just a dash of cornstarch and a light coating of breadcrumbs, you’ll enjoy a satisfying crunch that rivals deep-fried versions. It’s a win-win for flavor and health!

Customizing Your Bang Bang Shrimp

One of the best aspects of this recipe is its adaptability. While the classic Bang Bang sauce is irresistible, you can easily tweak the ingredients to match your personal preferences. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of sriracha or substitute it with a milder hot sauce. For those who love a bit of sweetness, adding a touch of honey or agave syrup can elevate the sauce further.

Additionally, feel free to experiment with the seasoning of the shrimp. Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat or incorporating herbs like parsley or cilantro can add a fresh twist. The versatility of this dish allows you to make it your own, ensuring it becomes a staple in your recipe collection.

Ingredients

For the Bang Bang Shrimp

  • 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup cornstarch
  • 2 eggs, beaten
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika

For the Bang Bang Sauce

  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon lime juice

Mix the breadcrumbs, cornstarch, and spices in a bowl for coating the shrimp.

Instructions

Prepare the Shrimp

In a bowl, combine the shrimp with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Toss to coat evenly.

Coat the Shrimp

Dip each shrimp into the beaten eggs, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture.

Air Fry the Shrimp

Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown.

Make the Bang Bang Sauce

In a bowl, mix together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and lime juice until smooth.

Serve

Toss the cooked shrimp in the Bang Bang sauce and serve immediately.

Enjoy your crispy Bang Bang Shrimp with a side of lime wedges!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe? Yes, you can use frozen shrimp; just be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before seasoning. This will help achieve the best texture and flavor in your Bang Bang Shrimp.

What can I serve with Bang Bang Shrimp? These shrimp pair well with a variety of sides. Consider serving them over a bed of rice, alongside a fresh salad, or with crispy vegetables for a well-rounded meal. They also make a tasty addition to tacos or wraps.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store the cooked Bang Bang Shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To maintain their crispy texture, it’s best to reheat them in the air fryer for a few minutes rather than using the microwave, which can make them soggy.

For longer storage, you can freeze the uncooked breaded shrimp. Just be sure to separate them on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to enjoy them, cook them directly from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

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

→ Is there a substitute for mayonnaise?

You can use Greek yogurt for a lighter version.

→ How can I make it spicier?

Add more sriracha or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce.

→ Can I prepare this in advance?

You can coat the shrimp and refrigerate them for a few hours before cooking.

Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp

Deliciously crispy and perfectly seasoned, these Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp are a delightful appetizer or main dish that everyone will love.

Prep Time20 minutes
Cooking Duration10 minutes
Overall Time30 minutes

Created by: Olivia

Recipe Type: Fast & Simple Meals

Skill Level: Intermediate

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

For the Bang Bang Shrimp

  1. 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
  2. 1 cup breadcrumbs
  3. 1/2 cup cornstarch
  4. 2 eggs, beaten
  5. 1/2 teaspoon salt
  6. 1/2 teaspoon pepper
  7. 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  8. 1/2 teaspoon paprika

For the Bang Bang Sauce

  1. 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  2. 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
  3. 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to taste)
  4. 1 teaspoon lime juice

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a bowl, combine the shrimp with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Toss to coat evenly.

Step 02

Dip each shrimp into the beaten eggs, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture.

Step 03

Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 04

In a bowl, mix together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and lime juice until smooth.

Step 05

Toss the cooked shrimp in the Bang Bang sauce and serve immediately.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 300 kcal
  • Total Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 150mg
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 22g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 5g
  • Protein: 15g