Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe

If you’re craving something crispy, flavorful, and perfectly spicy, this Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe is about to become your new obsession! Juicy shrimp coated in a golden gluten-free crust, tossed in a creamy, tangy, sweet-heat bang bang sauce—made effortlessly in your air fryer for a restaurant-quality treat at home.

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the things I adore about this Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe is how a few thoughtfully chosen ingredients come together for maximum flavor and texture. Each one serves a purpose—from the tender shrimp to that signature creamy sauce and the irresistible crunchy coating!

• Extra-large white shrimp (1 lb, shells off and deveined): Big, meaty shrimp hold up beautifully in the air fryer and soak up every bit of that bang bang flavor.
• Eggs (2 large, whisked): Help the coating stick and give the panko that signature crunch.
• Tapioca starch (6 tbsp): A light, gluten-free alternative that keeps the coating crisp and airy.
• Gluten-free panko (3/4 cup): Makes for a golden, crumbly crunch that clings to every shrimp.
• Coarse sea salt: Enhances the natural flavor of the shrimp and seasons every layer.
• Avocado oil spray: Helps the coating crisp up gorgeously in the air fryer without heavy oil.
• Spring onions or chives (finely chopped): A fresh, peppery sprinkle for color and zing.
• For the Bang Bang Sauce:
  • Mayonnaise (½ cup): Delivers that classic creamy base.
  • Rice vinegar (3 tbsp): Brings tang and brightness for balance.
  • Hot sauce or sweet chili sauce (½–1 tsp): Adds the signature kick and gentle heat—adjust to your spice preference.
  • Garlic clove (1 large, grated): Layers in savory depth.
  • Coconut aminos (1 tbsp): Gives subtle umami and a touch of sweetness.
  • Ketchup (1.5 tbsp): For a hint of sweetness and extra tang.
  • Pinches of coarse sea salt: Pulls all the sauce flavors together.

Variations

This Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe is made for customizing! Whether you’re working with what’s in your fridge or switching things up for dietary needs, here are some simple ideas you can try.

• Make it Dairy-Free: Use your favorite vegan or avocado mayo in the bang bang sauce for a completely dairy-free appetizer or dinner.
• Spice Swap: Sub sweet chili sauce for the hot sauce if you prefer a mild, sweet kick instead of heat, or double the hot sauce for extra fire.
• Lower-Carb Option: Toss the shrimp in almond flour or coconut flour instead of panko and starch for a lighter, grain-free twist.
• Crispy Cauliflower Bang Bang: Replace shrimp with florets of cauliflower—just prep, bread, and cook the same way for a fun vegetarian take.

How to Make Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe

Step 1: Prep and Butterfly the Shrimp

Start by patting your shrimp completely dry—moisture is the enemy of crispiness! Butterfly each shrimp by making a shallow cut along the back so they open up slightly; this helps them cook evenly, look gorgeous, and soak up more of that bang bang flavor.

Step 2: Set Up Your Coating Station

Grab three wide, shallow bowls: one for whisked eggs (with a pinch of salt), one for tapioca starch (salted, too), and one for gluten-free panko. Lay out a plate nearby to park your coated shrimp. Having this assembly line ready makes the breading process quick and mess-free.

Step 3: Coat the Shrimp

Working with one shrimp at a time, dip into the egg, dust in tapioca starch, back into the egg, then coat in panko. Use a dry hand to gently but firmly press to help the panko stick. Repeat with all the shrimp—it’s a little assembly-line magic!

Step 4: Preheat and Air Fry

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F for about 5 minutes. Spritz the basket well with avocado oil, then arrange shrimp in a single layer with some breathing room—no overcrowding! Air fry at 330°F for 3 minutes, carefully flip (yes, really flip each one!), then another 3 minutes. Cook in two batches if needed for the crunchiest results.

Step 5: Make the Bang Bang Sauce

While the shrimp cook, whisk together all the Bang Bang sauce ingredients until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust for sweetness or heat—it’s the soul of this Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe!

Step 6: Dress, Garnish, and Serve

Transfer the golden shrimp to a platter, sprinkle with fresh spring onions, and drizzle generously with that glorious sauce. Serve any extra sauce on the side for dunking, dipping, or drizzling. The result? Shrimp perfection!

How to Serve Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe

Garnishes

The finishing touches make these shrimp shine! A sprinkle of finely chopped spring onions or chives adds a bright pop of color and a touch of freshness, while a handful of sesame seeds or a lime wedge on the side can add zing and a little extra wow-factor at the table.

Side Dishes

My favorite way to serve this Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe? Piled on fluffy jasmine rice, next to a vibrant Asian slaw, or alongside crispy lettuce wraps for a light but satisfying meal. They’re also fantastic tucked in tacos, heaped onto noodle bowls, or atop a fresh green salad!

Creative Ways to Present

Make it a party! Arrange the shrimp on a big platter with small bowls of bang bang sauce for dipping, stick toothpicks in each for the ultimate finger food, or serve as sliders tucked into mini buns with lettuce and extra sauce—a playful, crowd-pleasing appetizer or game-night favorite.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, pop the cooked (unsauced) shrimp in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. The bang bang sauce can be stored separately in its own jar in the fridge for easy drizzling later.

Freezing

These air-fried shrimp freeze surprisingly well! Lay them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag for up to 2 months. Freeze without the sauce for best results.

Reheating

To bring back that signature crunch, reheat the shrimp in your air fryer at 350°F for just a few minutes until hot and crispy—skip the microwave, which can make them a bit soggy. Add fresh sauce and garnish just before serving!

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready for something bold, fun, and entirely irresistible, give this Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe a whirl! Every bite is an explosion of crispy, creamy, spicy-sweet perfection—and the best part is, you made it right at home. Happy crunching, my friend!

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