Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp

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Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp is a healthier take on the beloved restaurant favorite. This dish features crispy shrimp coated in a light panko breading, cooked to perfection in the air fryer. The shrimp is then drizzled with a spicy, tangy, and creamy bang bang sauce that gives it a signature kick. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for appetizers, weeknight dinners, or party snacks, and the air fryer ensures that you get all the crunch without the extra oil.

Ingredients:

Table of Contents

For the Shrimp:

  • 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails removed)
  • 1/2 cup (60g) all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 cup (100g) panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Cooking spray or olive oil spray

For the Bang Bang Sauce:

  • 1/4 cup (60g) mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
  • 1 tablespoon Sriracha sauce (adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon honey or sugar (optional, for sweetness)
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice (optional, for added tang)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Shrimp:

  1. Pat Dry: Rinse the shrimp under cold water, then pat them dry with paper towels. Dry shrimp will help the breading stick better.
  2. Set Up Breading Stations: Set up three bowls—one with the flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with the panko breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
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2. Coat the Shrimp:

  1. Dredge in Flour: Coat each shrimp in the flour, shaking off any excess.
  2. Dip in Egg: Dip the floured shrimp into the beaten eggs, making sure they are fully coated.
  3. Bread in Panko: Press the shrimp into the seasoned panko breadcrumbs, ensuring an even coat on both sides. Repeat for all the shrimp.

3. Air Fry the Shrimp:

  1. Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3-5 minutes.
  2. Arrange Shrimp: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Place the shrimp in a single layer in the basket, making sure not to overcrowd them. You may need to cook the shrimp in batches.
  3. Cook: Air fry the shrimp for 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy. Depending on the size of your shrimp and your air fryer, cooking times may vary slightly.
  4. Crisp It Up: If you want the shrimp extra crispy, add an additional 1-2 minutes of cooking time.

4. Make the Bang Bang Sauce:

  1. Combine Ingredients: While the shrimp is cooking, mix together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, honey (if using), and lime juice (if using) in a small bowl.
  2. Adjust Heat: Taste the sauce and adjust the heat level by adding more Sriracha if you like it spicier or more sweet chili sauce for a milder taste.

5. Serve the Shrimp:

  1. Toss or Drizzle: Once the shrimp are cooked, you can either toss them gently in the bang bang sauce or drizzle the sauce over the top for a lighter coating.
  2. Garnish: Garnish with chopped green onions, cilantro, or a sprinkle of sesame seeds for extra flair.
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Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp:

  • Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: To ensure the shrimp gets crispy, leave some space between each piece. If necessary, cook the shrimp in batches.
  • Serve Immediately: Bang Bang Shrimp is best served fresh and crispy. If you need to keep them warm, place them on a wire rack in a low oven (around 200°F/90°C) until ready to serve.
  • Customize the Sauce: Adjust the sweetness and spiciness of the bang bang sauce to your liking. For a tangy twist, add a splash of lime juice to the sauce.

Variations:

  • Coconut Bang Bang Shrimp: Add shredded coconut to the panko breadcrumbs for a tropical twist.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour and panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives.
  • Low-Carb/Keto Option: Use almond flour and crushed pork rinds instead of flour and panko for a keto-friendly version.

Serving Suggestions:

  • With Rice or Noodles: Serve the shrimp over steamed rice or rice noodles for a complete meal.
  • As a Taco Filling: Stuff the crispy shrimp and sauce into soft tortillas with shredded cabbage and avocado for delicious shrimp tacos.
  • On a Salad: Place the shrimp on top of a bed of mixed greens, cucumbers, and carrots, then drizzle with the bang bang sauce as a dressing.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp is a delicious, lighter alternative to the fried classic. With its crispy exterior and creamy, spicy sauce, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for any occasion. Plus, using an air fryer means you can enjoy the crunch without the guilt. Serve it as an appetizer, snack, or even a main dish—either way, it’s guaranteed to be a hit!

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