Welcome to the ultimate guide for crafting the most delectable and crispy Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp right in your own kitchen! This isn’t just another recipe; it’s your ticket to enjoying restaurant-quality shrimp that’s perfectly golden, incredibly crunchy, and generously drizzled with a creamy, sweet, and spicy sauce. Say goodbye to greasy deep-fried alternatives and hello to a healthier, yet equally satisfying, culinary experience. Using your air fryer transforms humble shrimp into a show-stopping appetizer or a delightful main course, all with minimal oil and maximum flavor. Prepare to impress your family and friends with this simple, yet incredibly flavorful dish, made from ingredients you likely already have on hand.
There’s something truly irresistible about crispy fried shrimp, especially when it’s coated in a perfectly balanced sweet and spicy sauce. This Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp recipe elevates the classic by ensuring each bite is succulent on the inside and extraordinarily crunchy on the outside. The taste and texture will rival, if not surpass, your favorite restaurant versions, all while being a breeze to prepare at home. It’s a dish that promises pure bliss with every mouthful!
If you’re a connoisseur of sweet and spicy cuisine, you’ll also adore my Sweet and Spicy Shrimp Stir Fry, the authentic Chinese Szechuan Chili Chicken, or the ever-popular Sweet and Spicy Asian Chicken.
Why This Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe Will Become Your Favorite
This Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp isn’t just a meal; it’s a revelation. Here’s why this recipe deserves a permanent spot in your cooking repertoire:
- Unbeatable Texture: Juicy Interior, Crispy Exterior. Forget soggy or rubbery shrimp! Our air fryer method ensures the shrimp remains incredibly juicy and tender on the inside, while the panko breading achieves an unbelievably crispy, golden-brown perfection. Each bite offers a delightful textural contrast that is truly satisfying.
- A Symphony of Flavors: Sweet, Spicy, and Creamy. The signature bang bang sauce is a masterful blend of creamy mayonnaise, the perfect sweetness of sweet chili sauce, and a customizable kick from sriracha. A hint of honey rounds out the flavors, creating a rich, complex, and utterly addictive sauce that perfectly complements the crispy shrimp. It’s a flavor profile that dances on your palate, intriguing with every taste.
- Remarkably Easy and Quick to Prepare. Don’t let the gourmet taste fool you – this recipe is surprisingly simple and comes together in mere minutes. With just a few common ingredients and the magic of your air fryer, you’re just a short cooking time away from enjoying a fantastic dish. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, impromptu gatherings, or whenever a craving strikes.
- A Healthier Twist on a Classic Indulgence. Traditionally, bang bang shrimp is deep-fried, but our air fryer version significantly cuts down on oil without compromising on crispiness or flavor. This makes it a lighter, healthier option that you can enjoy more often without the guilt, making it a truly smart choice for those mindful of their diet.
- Versatile for Any Occasion. Whether you need an impressive appetizer for a party, a quick and satisfying lunch, or a flavorful main course for dinner, this Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp fits the bill. It’s incredibly versatile and can be served in many ways, from elegant finger food to a hearty meal.
Essential Ingredients for Your Perfect Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp
Crafting phenomenal Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp begins with selecting the right ingredients. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need and why each component is vital for achieving that sensational taste and texture:
- Shrimp: Opt for medium-sized shrimp that are already peeled and deveined to save on prep time. Fresh shrimp is ideal for the best flavor, but high-quality frozen shrimp works wonderfully, provided it’s thoroughly thawed before use. The size is important as it affects cooking time and the ratio of crisp coating to tender shrimp.
- Cornstarch: This is a secret weapon for achieving extra crispiness. Coating the shrimp with cornstarch before the wet batter creates a thin, dry layer that adheres the buttermilk and panko, ensuring a shatteringly crisp texture when air-fried.
- Seasoning: A simple yet effective blend of paprika and salt enhances the natural sweetness of the shrimp and adds a subtle depth of flavor to the coating. You can also add a pinch of garlic powder or white pepper for an extra kick.
- Buttermilk: Buttermilk is essential for a tender result and helps the panko adhere beautifully. Its slight acidity tenderizes the shrimp, preventing it from becoming tough. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can easily make a substitute by adding 1 ½ teaspoons of white vinegar or lemon juice to regular milk and letting it sit for 5-10 minutes until it slightly curdles.
- Panko Bread Crumbs: Traditional breadcrumbs can’t compare to panko when it comes to crunch. These Japanese-style breadcrumbs are larger, lighter, and flakier, absorbing less oil and delivering an unparalleled crisp texture that makes this Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp truly special.
- Mayonnaise: The backbone of our creamy bang bang sauce. Full-fat mayonnaise provides the rich, smooth base. For a slightly lighter version, you can substitute with plain Greek yogurt or a reduced-fat mayonnaise, though it might subtly alter the overall flavor and creaminess.
- Sweet Chili Sauce: This sauce brings a delightful balance of sweet, tangy, and mildly spicy notes, which is crucial for the authentic bang bang flavor. Choose a good quality sweet chili sauce from your local Asian market or grocery store.
- Sriracha: For those who love a bit of heat, sriracha is your go-to. It adds a vibrant, fiery kick to the sauce. You have full control here – adjust the amount to perfectly match your desired spice level.
- Honey: A touch of honey (or pure maple syrup) balances the heat and tartness in the bang bang sauce, adding a lovely depth of sweetness that makes the sauce truly addictive.
- Fresh Parsley: Used as a garnish, fresh chopped parsley adds a pop of vibrant green color and a touch of fresh, herbaceous flavor that brightens the entire dish upon serving.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp
Creating perfect Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp is a straightforward process when you follow these clear steps. Get ready to transform simple ingredients into a sensational dish!
- 1. Prepare the Shrimp and Breading Stations. Begin by thoroughly patting the peeled and deveined shrimp dry with paper towels. This crucial step helps the coating adhere better and promotes maximum crispiness. In a shallow bowl, combine the cornstarch, paprika, and salt, mixing well. In a second shallow bowl, pour the buttermilk. In a third shallow bowl, spread out the panko breadcrumbs.
- 2. Coat the Shrimp. Take one piece of shrimp at a time. First, dredge it in the cornstarch mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated. Next, dip it into the buttermilk, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, thoroughly dredge the shrimp in the panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure an even and thick coating. Place the coated shrimp on a piece of parchment paper or a clean plate, and repeat this process with all the remaining shrimp.
- 3. Prepare Your Air Fryer. Preheat your air fryer to 390 degrees F (200 degrees C). While it preheats, lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. This ensures easy removal and a perfectly golden crust.
- 4. Air Fry the Panko Shrimp. Arrange the coated shrimp in a single layer within the air fryer basket. Ensure there’s no overcrowding, as this allows the hot air to circulate freely, leading to maximum crispiness. Air fry for 5 minutes, then carefully flip each piece of shrimp to the other side. Continue air frying for another 4-5 minutes, or until the shrimp is crispy, golden brown, and cooked through. Depending on your air fryer model and shrimp size, you might need to adjust the cooking time slightly. Cook in batches if necessary.
- 5. Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce. While the shrimp is air frying, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha sauce, and honey in a small bowl until completely smooth and well combined. Taste and adjust the sriracha to your preferred level of spiciness.
- 6. Drizzle and Serve. Once the shrimp are perfectly crispy and cooked, transfer them to a serving platter. Generously drizzle the homemade bang bang sauce over the shrimp. For a fresh finish and a pop of color, garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Expert Tips for the Best Bang Bang Shrimp Every Time
Achieving restaurant-quality Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp is simple with a few key tips and tricks. Follow these expert suggestions to ensure your shrimp is perfectly crispy, juicy, and packed with flavor:
- Thoroughly Defrost Frozen Shrimp: If you’re using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw it completely before starting the recipe. Placing it in the refrigerator overnight is the best method, or for quicker thawing, immerse the sealed package in cold water. Pat it very dry afterward.
- Dry Shrimp is Key to Crispiness: This step cannot be overstated! Excess moisture on the shrimp will create steam in the air fryer, preventing the coating from becoming truly crispy. Use paper towels to pat the shrimp as dry as possible before beginning the coating process.
- Master the Breading Technique: For a cleaner and more efficient breading process, designate one hand for handling the “wet” ingredients (buttermilk) and the other hand for the “dry” ingredients (cornstarch and panko). This prevents your hands from becoming a gloopy mess and ensures an even coating.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Air Fryer: For optimal crispiness, air needs to circulate freely around each piece of shrimp. Arranging the shrimp in a single layer without overlapping is essential. Overcrowding will steam the shrimp instead of frying it, resulting in a less crispy texture.
- Cook in Batches for Perfect Results: If you have a larger quantity of shrimp, cook them in multiple batches. It might take a little longer, but the perfectly crispy results are well worth the extra effort.
- Avoid Overcooking the Shrimp: Shrimp cooks very quickly. Overcooked shrimp becomes tough and rubbery. Keep a close eye on it; once it turns opaque and golden brown, it’s done. Typically, 8-10 minutes total in the air fryer is sufficient.
- Enhance the Panko Flavor: For an extra layer of taste, consider mixing a pinch of garlic powder, onion powder, or even a tiny bit of cayenne pepper into your panko breadcrumbs before coating. This adds a subtle boost to the crispy exterior.
- Prepare the Sauce in Advance: The bang bang sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. This is a fantastic time-saver, especially if you’re making this dish for entertaining.
- Adjust Spice Levels: The amount of sriracha is completely flexible. If you prefer a milder sauce, reduce the sriracha or omit it entirely. For more heat, feel free to add a little extra.
- Serve Immediately for Best Texture: While the shrimp can be reheated, it’s best enjoyed fresh out of the air fryer when its crispiness is at its peak.
Frequently Asked Questions About Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp
Achieving perfectly air-fried shrimp is simple. After coating your shrimp as per the recipe instructions, arrange them in a single layer in a preheated air fryer basket, making sure not to overcrowd. Air fry the panko-coated shrimp at 390°F (200°C) for 5 minutes, then flip them over and continue to air fry for another 4-5 minutes, or until they are golden brown and wonderfully crispy. The internal temperature of cooked shrimp should reach 120°F (49°C).
Absolutely! Air fryer bang bang shrimp can be made successfully with both fresh and frozen shrimp. The key when using frozen shrimp is to ensure it is completely thawed before you begin the coating and air frying process. Patting it thoroughly dry after thawing is also crucial to prevent excess moisture from making the shrimp soggy.
Bang Bang Shrimp is a popular appetizer that gained widespread fame thanks to the Bonefish Grill restaurant chain. Their original version typically features generous portions of deep-fried crispy shrimp coated in a creamy, sweet, and spicy sauce. Our Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp recipe is a healthier, lightened-up, and equally delicious homemade rendition of this beloved cult favorite, achieving that irresistible crispiness without the need for excessive oil.
Air fryer bang bang shrimp is truly best when served fresh to enjoy its maximum crispiness. However, if you have leftovers, you can store the cooked shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The bang bang sauce can be stored separately in the fridge for about a week. To reheat the shrimp and restore some of its crispiness, place it back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes, or until warmed through. Reheating in the microwave is possible but will likely result in a rubbery texture.
Yes, you can freeze cooked bang-bang shrimp! Allow the cooked shrimp to cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze for about an hour. Once solid, transfer the frozen shrimp to a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, defrost the shrimp overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat them in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes until hot and somewhat crispy again.
Bang Bang Shrimp is incredibly versatile! It’s most commonly served as a crowd-pleasing appetizer, but it can easily be transformed into a main dish. Pair it with fluffy white rice, stir-fried noodles, or even serve it in crunchy lettuce cups for a delicious and fun twist on lettuce wraps. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside my Air Fryer French Fries, savory Cheesy Broccoli Bites, or rich Creamy Au Gratin Potatoes.
Yes, absolutely! To make Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp gluten-free, simply substitute regular panko breadcrumbs with a good quality gluten-free panko breadcrumb alternative. Ensure your cornstarch and sweet chili sauce are also certified gluten-free, as some brands may contain hidden gluten ingredients. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
While the air fryer yields the crispiest results with minimal oil, you can certainly bake this shrimp in a conventional oven. To do so, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the coated shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and lightly sprayed with cooking oil. Bake for 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the shrimp is cooked through and golden brown. The texture won’t be as intensely crispy as air-fried, but it will still be delicious.
Discover More Irresistible Shrimp Recipes
If you loved this Bang Bang Shrimp, you’ll surely enjoy exploring other fantastic shrimp dishes that are both flavorful and easy to make:
- Healthy Chipotle Shrimp Bowl: A vibrant and wholesome bowl packed with bold flavors.
- Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Spaghetti: A comforting and rich pasta dish featuring succulent shrimp.
- Shrimp Pineapple Salad: A refreshing and tropical salad perfect for a light meal.
We genuinely hope you enjoy all the recipes we share with you, especially this mouthwatering Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp. We encourage you to try it, savor every bite, leave a rating, and share your delicious creations with your friends and family!
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Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp
Ingredients
For Shrimp
- 1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- ½ cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ cup buttermilk
- 1 ½ cup panko bread crumbs
- ¾ tsp Salt , to taste
For Sauce
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1 teaspoon sriracha sauce
- 1 teaspoon honey
- Fresh parsley, to serve
Instructions
- Pat dry the shrimp with a paper towel and keep it aside.
- In a medium bowl, combine cornstarch, salt and paprika. Mix it well.
- Coat the shrimp in cornstarch mixture first, then dip it in buttermilk and finally dredge in the panko breadcrumbs until well coated and keep it in a parchment paper. Repeat the same with the remaining shrimp.
- Preheat the air fryer to 390 degrees F. Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
- Arrange the shrimp single layer on the basket and air fry for 5 minutes, flip to the other side, and air fry further for 5 more minutes until shrimp turns crispy and golden.
- Meanwhile, prepare the bang bang sauce by combining mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha sauce and honey in a bowl until well combined.
- Drizzle the bang bang sauce over the shrimp and garnish with chopped parsley and serve.
Notes
- If using frozen shrimp be sure to defrost them completely.
- Dry the shrimp well before beginning the coating process.
- Use one hand for wet ingredients and one hand for dry when coating the shrimp.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer. The shrimp will get crispier if they don’t overlap.
- Cook the air fryer panko shrimp in batches if necessary.
- Don’t overcook the shrimp.
- Make a double batch of the bang bang sauce or make it in advance. It will keep in the fridge for a week.