This Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp recipe delivers crispy, flavorful shrimp coated in a spicy, creamy sauce. It’s a quick and easy dish perfect for appetizers or a main course.
Using an air fryer makes this recipe healthier while still achieving that satisfying crunch. The shrimp can be served over rice, in tacos, or on their own as a delicious snack.
Overview of Bang Bang Shrimp
Bang Bang Shrimp is a delightful dish that combines crispy shrimp with a rich, spicy sauce. This dish has gained popularity for its perfect balance of flavors and textures.
Traditionally served as an appetizer, it can easily transition into a main course when paired with rice or tacos. The air fryer method not only enhances the crunchiness but also makes it a healthier option compared to deep-frying.
Preparing the Shrimp
To achieve the ideal texture, start with fresh, large shrimp that are peeled and deveined.
Patting the shrimp dry is essential to ensure the coating adheres properly. A light dredging in a cornstarch mixture followed by a coating of panko breadcrumbs creates that irresistible crunch.
Each shrimp should be coated evenly, with excess batter shaken off to prevent clumping during the cooking process.
Creating the Bang Bang Sauce
The sauce is where the magic happens. A combination of mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha delivers a creamy yet spicy kick.
Adjusting the amount of sriracha allows for customization based on personal heat preferences.
This sauce can be tossed with the shrimp or served on the side for dipping, adding an extra layer of flavor to each bite.
Cooking with the Air Fryer
Preheating the air fryer is a crucial step that ensures even cooking.
Setting it to 400°F (200°C) prepares the appliance for the shrimp, allowing them to crisp up beautifully.
Cooking the shrimp in a single layer promotes even browning and prevents steaming, resulting in that desired golden finish.
Serving Suggestions
Once cooked, the shrimp can be plated with a drizzle of the bang bang sauce on top.
Garnishing with chopped green onions adds a pop of color and freshness.
For a complete meal, consider serving the shrimp over a bed of rice or in soft tortillas, making it versatile for any occasion.
Nutrition and Serving Size
This dish serves four, making it perfect for gatherings or family dinners.
Each serving contains approximately 320 calories, with a good balance of protein and healthy fats.
With its satisfying crunch and bold flavors, Bang Bang Shrimp is sure to impress anyone at the table.
Crispy Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp
This recipe features shrimp tossed in a light batter, air-fried to golden perfection, and drizzled with a zesty bang bang sauce. The preparation takes about 30 minutes and serves 4 people.
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to taste)
- Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prep the Shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Make the Coating: In a bowl, mix cornstarch, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Dredge each shrimp in the mixture, shaking off excess.
- Coat with Panko: Dip the coated shrimp into panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
- Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
- Air Fry the Shrimp: Place the shrimp in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a separate bowl, mix mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha until well combined.
- Serve: Toss the cooked shrimp in the bang bang sauce or drizzle it over the top. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 320kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 15g