Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for something irresistibly crisp, spicy, and a little bit creamy, this Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe is about to become your new obsession! Every bite bursts with juicy shrimp wrapped in a gluten-free crunch, showered in a sweet-and-tangy bang bang sauce that’s unbelievably easy to whip up at home.

Ingredients You’ll Need

What I love most about this Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe is how just a handful of ingredients come together to make magic. Each one plays a starring role, giving you a crispy shell, juicy shrimp, and that craveable sauce that ties it all together.

• 1 lb. extra-large white shrimp: Butterflied and deveined—these meaty beauties turn sweet and juicy as they cook.
• 2 large whole eggs: Whisked up to give the coating extra sticking power and moisture.
• 6 tbsp tapioca starch: Essential for a light, crunchy shell that holds on tight to all the flavor.
• 3/4 cup gluten-free panko: Guarantees that “shatteringly crisp” bite with every single shrimp.
• Coarse sea salt: To season every layer, bringing all the flavors forward.
• Avocado oil spray: Makes it possible to air fry to perfection while keeping things light.
• 1-2 bulb spring onions (or chives): Finely chopped for a fresh, oniony garnish with vibrant color.
• ½ cup mayonnaise: The base of our signature bang bang sauce, creamy and rich.
• 3 tbsp rice vinegar: The secret to that tangy brightness in the sauce.
• ½-1 tsp hot sauce or sweet chili sauce: Choose between more heat or a little sweetness for your perfect flavor.
• 1 large garlic clove (about 0.2 oz): Grated or crushed, it adds real punch to the sauce.
• 1 tbsp coconut aminos: Adds subtle umami depth to bring the sauce together.
• 1.5 tbsp ketchup: A hint of sweetness and a pop of color for the sauce.
• Pinches of coarse sea salt: For balance—don’t skip those final sprinkles!

Variations

The beauty of this Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe is how easy it is to adapt. Whether you want to dial up the heat, swap in different proteins, or meet special dietary needs, there’s a version for everyone at your table!

• Swap Your Shrimp: Try this method with cubed chicken breast or tofu for a pescatarian or vegetarian-friendly twist.
• Make It Dairy-Free: Use your favorite vegan mayo and check your panko for dairy-free certification.
• Keto-Friendly Version: Replace panko with crushed pork rinds and use a low-carb mayo for the sauce—equally crunchy and satisfying!
• Tweak the Heat: Love spice? Add more hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne to the sauce for a fiery kick.

How to Make Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe

Step 1: Prep and Butterfly the Shrimp

Start by patting your shrimp completely dry with a clean paper towel—this step helps the coating cling beautifully and keeps everything ultra-crispy. Next, butterfly each shrimp: gently insert a paring knife into the back near the head and carefully slice about three-quarters of the way through without cutting all the way. This little detail makes your shrimp cook evenly and look extra impressive on the plate.

Step 2: Set Up Your Coating Bowls

Arrange three wide, shallow bowls on your counter—one for whisked eggs (with a pinch of salt), another for tapioca starch (with two pinches of salt), and the last for gluten-free panko. Have a plate ready for your coated shrimp. This assembly line makes the whole process smooth and mess-free.

Step 3: Bread the Shrimp

With one hand, dip each shrimp in the egg, then dust lightly with tapioca starch, then back in the egg. Transfer the shrimp to your bowl of panko and, with your other hand, gently press the crumbs on to cover every nook and cranny. The double-dip ensures an extra-crisp coating that sticks through air frying.

Step 4: Air Fry to Perfection

Preheat your 6-quart air fryer at 400°F for 5 minutes, then spray the basket generously with avocado oil. Lay the shrimp out in a single layer (you’ll likely need two batches), and mist the tops as well. Air fry at 330°F for 3 minutes per side, flipping gently—don’t rush the turn!—until golden, crisp, and ready to devour.

Step 5: Make the Bang Bang Sauce

While the shrimp cook, whisk together mayo, rice vinegar, hot sauce (or sweet chili sauce), garlic, coconut aminos, ketchup, and a couple pinches of sea salt in a small bowl. Taste and adjust for heat or tang—this sauce is meant to brighten and enhance the shrimp’s flavors, so don’t be shy!

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Let the cooked shrimp rest on a cooling rack to retain their crunch. When ready to serve, crown them with chopped spring onion and drizzle with that beautiful bang bang sauce. Serve the rest of the sauce on the side—trust me, you’ll want extra for dipping!

How to Serve Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe

Garnishes

Finish your Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe with a generous sprinkle of finely chopped spring onions or fresh chives—not only do they add a pop of vibrant green color, but they give each bite a lovely, gentle savory bite that balances the creamy sauce so well. For a little extra flair, add a dash of toasted sesame seeds or a light squeeze of lime!

Side Dishes

This shrimp is absolutely swoon-worthy next to simple jasmine rice, sticky coconut rice, or a crisp Asian slaw. It’s also divine tucked into lettuce cups for a lighter meal, or paired with a cool cucumber salad to balance the heat of the bang bang sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Make this Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe the star of your next party by serving the shrimp as skewers with a sauce dipping platter, or turn them into Bang Bang Shrimp tacos with shredded cabbage and extra sauce. Feeling playful? Pile them onto a platter for a “shrimp mountain” that’s sure to wow your guests!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftover shrimp can be cooled completely and stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep the sauce separate if possible to preserve that irresistible crunch!

Freezing

While the texture is always best fresh, you can freeze the cooked (unsauced) shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for a quick appetizer or snack.

Reheating

To keep the Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe crispy, reheat the shrimp in your air fryer at 350°F for 2-3 minutes, just until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, which can leave the breading soggy—trust me, the air fryer is worth the extra minute!

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a dinner that’s guaranteed to disappear fast, you simply have to try this Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe. It’s fun, flavorful, and incredibly easy—perfect for sharing with friends or savoring all by yourself. Give it a go, and let the crunch and zingy sauce win you over one shrimp at a time!

Print