This air fryer bang bang shrimp is a deliciously crispy and spicy dish that’s perfect as an appetizer or main course. Coated in a light batter and tossed in a creamy, spicy sauce, these shrimp are sure to impress.
The recipe is quick and easy, making it a great option for busy weeknights or entertaining guests. Serve them over rice or in tacos for a complete meal.
Visual Appeal of Bang Bang Shrimp
The sight of crispy air fryer bang bang shrimp is enough to make anyone’s mouth water.
With their golden brown exterior and a glossy drizzle of spicy sauce, these shrimp are a feast for the eyes.
Garnished with vibrant green onions, they create a striking contrast that enhances the overall presentation.
Served on a rustic wooden table, the dish embodies a warm, inviting atmosphere that makes it perfect for gatherings or a cozy dinner at home.
The combination of colors and textures promises a delightful culinary experience.
Preparation Made Simple
Preparing bang bang shrimp is a straightforward process that doesn’t require extensive culinary skills.
Start by drying the shrimp and seasoning them with salt and pepper to enhance their natural flavor.
Setting up a breading station with flour, beaten egg, and a panko mixture makes the coating process easy and efficient.
Each shrimp is dipped in flour, then egg, and finally coated in the crispy panko mixture.
This method ensures that every piece is evenly covered, leading to that satisfying crunch when cooked.
Cooking to Perfection
The air fryer is a game changer for achieving that crispy texture without deep frying.
Preheating the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) allows the shrimp to cook evenly and develop a beautiful golden color.
Arranging the shrimp in a single layer ensures that they crisp up nicely on all sides.
Cooking takes just 8-10 minutes, and flipping them halfway through guarantees an even cook.
The result is perfectly crispy shrimp that are both light and satisfying.
Creating the Bang Bang Sauce
The bang bang sauce is what truly elevates this dish.
Combining mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha creates a creamy, spicy blend that complements the shrimp perfectly.
Adjusting the amount of sriracha allows you to customize the heat level to your preference.
Once the shrimp are cooked, tossing them in this sauce ensures each piece is coated in flavor.
The creamy texture of the sauce pairs beautifully with the crispy shrimp, making every bite a delight.
Serving Suggestions
Bang bang shrimp can be served in various ways, making them versatile for any occasion.
They shine as an appetizer, perfect for sharing among friends or family.
Alternatively, serve them over rice or in tacos for a complete meal that is both satisfying and delicious.
Garnishing with chopped green onions not only adds a pop of color but also a fresh crunch that enhances the overall experience.
These shrimp are sure to impress at any gathering, making them a go-to recipe for entertaining.
Nutritional Benefits
Each serving of bang bang shrimp offers a balanced combination of protein and flavor.
With approximately 300 calories per serving, they provide a satisfying option without excessive guilt.
The shrimp contribute a good amount of protein, while the light batter keeps the dish enjoyable without being overly heavy.
This dish is a fantastic way to enjoy seafood while indulging in a bit of spice.
Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, bang bang shrimp fits the bill perfectly.
Easy Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe
This bang bang shrimp features tender shrimp coated in a crispy batter, cooked to perfection in an air fryer. The dish is ready in about 25 minutes and serves 4 people.
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to taste)
- Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Prep the Shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper.
- Set Up Breading Station: In one bowl, place the flour. In another bowl, add the beaten egg. In a third bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Bread the Shrimp: Dip each shrimp first in flour, then in the egg, and finally coat with the panko mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
- Air Fry the Shrimp: Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the breaded shrimp in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
- Make the Bang Bang Sauce: In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha until well combined.
- Toss and Serve: Once the shrimp are cooked, toss them in the bang bang sauce until evenly coated. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve immediately.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 300kcal
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 25g