Unleash the flavor of your favorite restaurant appetizer right in your own kitchen! This Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp recipe delivers perfectly crispy, tender shrimp coated in an irresistible creamy, sweet, and spicy sauce – all with less oil and hassle.

Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp: Crispy, Sweet & Spicy Perfection at Home

There’s a reason why the Bang Bang Shrimp at Bonefish Grill has achieved legendary status. That delightful combination of crunchy, savory shrimp enveloped in a vibrant, creamy, sweet, and spicy sauce is simply unforgettable. If you’re like me, those cravings hit hard and often, making it almost impossible to resist ordering them every time you visit.

But what if you could recreate that magic at home? Even better, what if you could make it healthier, quicker, and with minimal cleanup? Enter the air fryer! This incredible kitchen gadget is a game-changer for achieving that desired crispy texture without the need for deep-frying and excessive oil. My homemade Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp recipe brings all the flavor and crunch of the restaurant favorite, transformed into a convenient and lighter dish perfect for any occasion.

Whether you’re hosting a gathering, looking for a delicious appetizer, or craving a quick and easy weeknight meal, this recipe is designed to impress. Get ready to ditch the takeout menu and discover how effortlessly you can whip up a batch of these sensational shrimp, keeping those intense cravings perfectly satisfied right in your own kitchen.

Why the Air Fryer is Your Secret Weapon for Perfect Bang Bang Shrimp

While traditional Bang Bang Shrimp is often deep-fried, the air fryer offers a fantastic alternative that doesn’t compromise on flavor or texture. In fact, it often enhances it! Here’s why using an air fryer is the smartest choice for this dish:

• Achieve Unbeatable Crispiness: The air fryer works by circulating hot air around the food, creating a convection effect similar to a deep fryer but with significantly less oil. This results in an incredibly crispy, golden-brown coating on your shrimp that rivals any deep-fried version.
• Healthier Indulgence: By using just a light spray of olive oil instead of submerging the shrimp in a vat of hot oil, you drastically reduce the fat content, making this a much lighter and healthier option without sacrificing taste.
• Effortless Cleanup: Say goodbye to greasy countertops and endless scrubbing. Air frying means less oil splatter and a much easier cleanup process compared to traditional frying methods.
• Speed and Convenience: Air fryers preheat quickly and cook food efficiently. Your shrimp will be ready in mere minutes, making this recipe perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu cravings.
• Consistent Results: With precise temperature control and even heat distribution, the air fryer ensures that each piece of shrimp cooks perfectly every time, preventing overcooking and ensuring tender, juicy interiors.

Embracing the air fryer for your Bang Bang Shrimp isn’t just a trend; it’s a smart culinary choice that delivers delicious results with added benefits. Let’s dive into the simple ingredients you’ll need to create this masterpiece.

Ingredients for Your Irresistible Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp

Crafting the perfect Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp requires a few key components, divided into the shrimp itself, the crispy breading, and the star of the show – that incredible creamy sauce. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need:

For the Crispy Shrimp

• Shrimp: Opt for medium-sized shrimp (30-40 count per pound) for the best texture and cooking consistency. They are large enough to feel substantial but small enough to cook quickly and get perfectly crispy. Ensure they are peeled and deveined. You can leave the tails on for presentation and easy handling, or remove them for bite-sized convenience. If using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them completely and pat them very dry before breading. Moisture is the enemy of crispiness!
• All-Purpose Flour: This forms the initial layer for the breading, helping the egg wash adhere better to the shrimp.
• Eggs: Large eggs, whisked well, create the essential binder for the panko breadcrumbs. This liquid layer is crucial for a thick, even coating.
• Panko Breadcrumbs: This is non-negotiable for maximum crunch! Panko, a Japanese-style breadcrumb, is coarser and flakier than regular breadcrumbs, absorbing less oil and resulting in a lighter, crispier crust. While Italian breadcrumbs can be a last-minute substitute, panko truly delivers the signature “bang.”
• Seasonings: A simple yet effective blend of paprika (for color and mild flavor), garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper will infuse the breading with a savory depth that complements the sauce beautifully. Don’t skip these; they elevate the shrimp’s flavor profile.
• Olive Oil Spray: A light mist of oil is all you need to help the shrimp achieve that gorgeous golden-brown color and ultimate crispiness in the air fryer. You can use a store-bought spray or make your own with olive oil and a reusable mister for even application.

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For the Signature Bang Bang Sauce

The sauce is arguably the star of the show, perfectly balancing creamy, sweet, and spicy notes. Making it at home allows for easy customization to your exact preference.

• Mayonnaise: This forms the creamy base of the sauce. Any good quality mayo will work. For an extra rich and tangy flavor that many chefs swear by, consider using Kewpie mayonnaise. Ensure it’s at room temperature for easier mixing.
• Sweet Chili Sauce: This provides the essential sweetness and a mild, tangy heat. My personal favorite is Mae Ploy for its authentic flavor, but any brand of Thai sweet chili sauce will yield delicious results. It’s crucial for achieving that characteristic “bang” flavor.
• Sriracha: Here’s where you control the heat! Sriracha adds a fiery kick and depth of flavor. Start with the recommended amount and then gradually increase or decrease it to match your desired spice level. Taste as you go!
• Green Onions (Optional Garnish): Thinly sliced green onions add a fresh, herbaceous note and a pop of color, making your dish visually appealing and adding a subtle oniony crunch.

With these ingredients at hand, you’re just a few steps away from creating a memorable meal that rivals any restaurant!

Step-by-Step: How to Make Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp

Making this dish is surprisingly simple and comes together quickly. Follow these straightforward steps for perfectly crispy shrimp and a creamy, flavorful sauce.

Step 1: Prepare Your Breading Station

Before you begin, ensure your shrimp are fully thawed, peeled, deveined, and thoroughly patted dry with paper towels. Excess moisture will prevent the breading from sticking and getting crispy.

Set up a classic breading station with three shallow bowls:

1. Pour the all-purpose flour into the first bowl.
2. Whisk the eggs vigorously in the second bowl until well combined.
3. In the third bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs with the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, and black pepper. Stir well to ensure the seasonings are evenly distributed throughout the panko.

Step 2: Bread the Shrimp

Working one piece at a time, dredge each shrimp through the bowls in the following order:

1. Flour: Coat the shrimp completely in flour, shaking off any excess. This initial layer helps the egg stick better.
2. Egg: Dip the floured shrimp into the whisked egg, ensuring it’s fully coated. Let any excess egg drip off.
3. Seasoned Panko: Press the shrimp firmly into the seasoned panko mixture, turning to coat both sides thoroughly. Make sure the panko adheres well to create that signature crispy crust. Place the breaded shrimp on a clean plate or baking sheet as you go, ensuring they don’t touch.

Repeat this process for all your shrimp until they are all beautifully breaded.

Step 3: Air Fry to Golden Perfection

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This crucial step ensures even cooking and maximum crispiness from the start.

1. Once preheated, lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil spray.
2. Arrange the breaded shrimp in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Do not overcrowd the basket. Overlapping shrimp will steam instead of crisp, leading to a soggy result. If necessary, cook in batches.
3. Lightly spray the tops of the shrimp with olive oil. This helps achieve that beautiful golden-brown color and extra crunch.
4. Cook for 8-12 minutes, flipping the shrimp halfway through the cooking time. The exact time will depend on the size of your shrimp and the model of your air fryer. Look for a vibrant golden-brown exterior and firm, opaque shrimp. The internal temperature of cooked shrimp should reach 145°F (63°C).
5. If cooking in batches, place the cooked shrimp on a wire rack set over a baking sheet and keep them warm in an oven preheated to 200°F (95°C) while you cook the remaining batches.

Step 4: Whisk Up the Bang Bang Sauce

While your shrimp are air frying, prepare the star sauce. This step is quick and easy!

1. In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha.
2. Whisk thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined and the sauce is smooth and creamy with a uniform orange hue.
3. Taste and adjust: This is your chance to customize! If you prefer it spicier, add more sriracha a quarter teaspoon at a time. If you like it sweeter or milder, a touch more sweet chili sauce or mayo can balance the flavors.

Step 5: Assemble and Serve

Once all the shrimp are cooked to golden perfection and the sauce is ready, it’s time to bring it all together.

1. You can either drizzle the bang bang sauce generously over all the crispy shrimp directly in a serving bowl, tossing gently to coat.
2. Alternatively, serve the sauce on the side for dipping, allowing everyone to add as much or as little as they like. This is often preferred for maintaining maximum crispiness until the very last bite.
3. Garnish with thinly sliced green onions for a fresh pop of color and flavor, if desired.

Serve immediately while the shrimp are hot and the coating is at its crispiest. Enjoy your homemade restaurant-quality Bang Bang Shrimp!

Expert Tips for the Best Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp

Achieving restaurant-quality Bang Bang Shrimp at home is easy with an air fryer, but a few expert tips can elevate your dish from great to absolutely outstanding. Pay attention to these details for perfect results every time:

1. Don’t Overcrowd the Air Fryer Basket: This is perhaps the most crucial tip for achieving truly crispy results. Air fryers work by circulating hot air, and if the basket is too full, the air can’t reach all surfaces of the food. This leads to steaming rather than frying, resulting in soggy shrimp. Cook in a single layer, ensuring there’s space between each piece. If you have a smaller air fryer, work in batches.
2. Keep Batches Warm: If you’re cooking multiple batches, you’ll want to keep the first batches warm and crispy. Place the cooked shrimp on a metal cooling rack set over a baking sheet. Transfer this to an oven preheated to a low temperature, around 200°F (95°C), while the remaining shrimp cook. This prevents them from becoming cold or losing their crunch.
3. Thaw and Pat Shrimp Dry Thoroughly: Whether fresh or frozen, ensuring your shrimp are completely thawed and as dry as possible is paramount. Use paper towels to vigorously blot away any surface moisture. Water on the shrimp will create steam, hinder breading adhesion, and prevent crisping.
4. Season the Panko Generously: Don’t just rely on the sauce for flavor. Mixing paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper into your panko breadcrumbs adds an extra layer of savory deliciousness directly into the crispy coating.
5. Use a Good Oil Spray: A fine mist of oil is key for promoting browning and crispiness. An even spray of olive oil or avocado oil ensures good coverage without drenching the shrimp. Avoid non-stick sprays with propellants that can damage air fryer baskets. Use a dedicated olive oil sprayer for best results.
6. Preheat Your Air Fryer: Just like a conventional oven, preheating your air fryer is essential. It brings the cooking chamber to the correct temperature, ensuring that the shrimp start cooking immediately upon entering, leading to better texture and faster overall cooking times.
7. Adjust Cook Time for Shrimp Size: The recommended cooking time (8-12 minutes) is for medium shrimp. If you’re using smaller shrimp, they will cook faster; jumbo shrimp will take a bit longer. Always cook until the shrimp are opaque and firm, and ideally, check for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
8. Customizing the Sauce: The Bang Bang sauce is highly adaptable. Feel free to adjust the sriracha for your preferred heat level. For a touch more tang, a squeeze of lime juice or a dash of rice vinegar can brighten the flavors. A pinch of sugar can also balance out the heat if needed.

With these tips in mind, you’re well on your way to mastering Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp that will earn rave reviews!

What to Serve with Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp

Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp is incredibly versatile. It can shine as a standalone appetizer, but it also makes a fantastic main course when paired with the right sides. Here are some delicious ideas to complete your meal:

As an Appetizer:

Serve it simply with extra Bang Bang sauce on the side for dipping. It’s perfect for parties, game days, or a fun starter before dinner. Consider serving alongside other crowd-pleasing finger foods like:

• Crispy Fried Pickles
• Homemade Chicken Tenders
• Honey Lemon Pepper Wings
• Fresh vegetable sticks (celery, carrots) to balance the richness.

As a Main Course:

Transform your shrimp into a satisfying meal by pairing it with these complementary dishes:

• Rice: A classic pairing! White rice, brown rice, or even a flavorful Instant Pot Coconut Rice will soak up the delicious sauce and make for a complete meal.
• Noodles/Pasta: Serve over a bed of light pasta like angel hair or rice noodles for an Asian-inspired pasta dish. A simple stir-fried noodle side would also be fantastic.
• Salad: For a lighter option, serve the shrimp over a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette. A simple coleslaw or an Asian-inspired cucumber salad would also be excellent.
• Roasted Vegetables: Broccoli, asparagus, or bell peppers roasted to perfection make a healthy and flavorful accompaniment.
• Tacos or Lettuce Wraps: Pile the Bang Bang Shrimp into soft tortillas or crisp lettuce cups for a fun, interactive meal. Add some shredded cabbage, pickled onions, or a squeeze of lime for extra flair.
• Quinoa or Couscous: For a healthier grain alternative, serve with fluffy quinoa or quick-cooking couscous.

No matter how you choose to serve it, this Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp is guaranteed to be a hit!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Got questions about making Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp? We’ve got answers to help you perfect this delectable dish!

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, absolutely! Just ensure they are completely thawed before you begin breading. Place them in the refrigerator overnight or run them under cold water. Once thawed, it’s crucial to pat them extremely dry with paper towels to ensure the breading sticks and the shrimp gets crispy in the air fryer. Any excess moisture will lead to a soggy result.

How can I adjust the spice level of the Bang Bang sauce?

The beauty of homemade sauce is customization!

• For milder sauce: Start with half the recommended amount of sriracha or even less, and taste before adding more. You can also increase the amount of mayonnaise or sweet chili sauce to balance the heat.
• For spicier sauce: Gradually add more sriracha, a quarter teaspoon at a time, until it reaches your desired heat level. A tiny pinch of cayenne pepper can also boost the spice.

Always taste and adjust as you go!

What if I don’t have an air fryer? Can I bake or deep-fry them?

While this recipe is optimized for the air fryer, you do have alternatives:

• Baking: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place breaded shrimp on a lightly oiled baking sheet. Bake for 12-18 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and cooked through. They won’t be as crispy as air-fried, but still delicious.
• Deep Frying: Heat about 2-3 inches of oil in a heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry shrimp in batches for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. This method will yield the crispiest results, but also requires more oil and cleanup.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, with a few substitutions!

• Flour: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
• Panko: Look for gluten-free panko breadcrumbs, which are widely available in most supermarkets.

The remaining ingredients (shrimp, eggs, mayo, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, seasonings) are typically gluten-free, but always double-check labels to be safe.

How do I store and reheat leftover Bang Bang Shrimp?

Store any leftover cooked shrimp and sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
To reheat shrimp and retain crispiness:

• Air Fryer: Preheat air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place shrimp in a single layer and air fry for 3-5 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.
• Oven: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Place shrimp on a baking sheet and bake for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through.

Avoid microwaving, as it will make the shrimp soggy. The sauce can be gently rewarmed if desired, or served cold.

Variations to Try

Once you’ve mastered the classic Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp, feel free to get creative with these delicious variations:

• Chicken Bang Bang: Substitute shrimp with bite-sized pieces of chicken breast or thighs for a land-based version of this popular dish. Adjust cooking time accordingly (typically 12-18 minutes for chicken, depending on size).
• Vegetarian/Vegan Bang Bang: Use firm tofu or cauliflower florets instead of shrimp. For a vegan sauce, substitute regular mayo with a good quality vegan mayonnaise.
• Spicy Mango Bang Bang: Add a tablespoon or two of finely diced fresh mango to your sauce for a burst of fruity sweetness and a tropical twist.
• Garlic Lime Bang Bang: Introduce a teaspoon of minced fresh garlic and a squeeze of fresh lime juice into the sauce for a zesty, aromatic upgrade.
• Different Breading: Experiment with finely crushed cornflakes or tortilla chips mixed into the panko for a unique texture and flavor profile.

These variations offer exciting new ways to enjoy the vibrant flavors of Bang Bang Shrimp, proving just how versatile this recipe can be!

Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp

Crispy air fried shrimp covered in a creamy, sweet and spicy sauce.

Print Recipe

Prep Time: 8 mins

Cook Time: 12 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

Shrimp

• 12 ounces medium shrimp (30-40 count), peeled and deveined, tails off
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, whisked
• 1 1/2 cups panko bread crumbs
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Olive oil spray
• 2 green onions for garnish, optional

Sauce

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise, room temperature
• 3 teaspoons sriracha sauce, or to taste
• 1/4 cup Thai sweet chili sauce

Instructions

1. Set up your breading station by placing the all-purpose flour in one shallow bowl and whisked eggs in another separate shallow bowl.
2. In a third shallow bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, and black pepper. Stir well to mix the seasonings.
3. Dip each raw shrimp first in the flour, shaking off excess. Then dip in the whisked eggs, allowing excess to drip off. Finally, coat both sides thoroughly in the seasoned panko mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Preheat your air fryer to 375 degrees F (190°C) and lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil. Lightly spray the breaded shrimp with olive oil as well.
5. Arrange the breaded shrimp in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Do not overcrowd; cook in batches if necessary.
6. Cook the breaded shrimp for 8-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they are golden brown, crispy, and cooked through (internal temperature of 145°F/63°C).
7. While the shrimp are cooking, mix mayonnaise, sriracha sauce, and Thai sweet chili sauce in a bowl. Whisk until smooth. Adjust the spice level to taste by adding more sriracha if desired.
8. Once the shrimp are done, transfer them to a serving dish. Drizzle the bang bang sauce generously over the crispy shrimp, or serve the sauce on the side for dipping.
9. Garnish with thinly sliced green onions, if using. Serve immediately and enjoy!