Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp: 5 Bold Flavors You’ll Crave

Name: Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp: 5 Bold Flavors You'll Crave
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 cup panko breadcrumbs; 1/2 cup flour; 1 egg; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon pepper; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce; 1 tablespoon sriracha

By:

Christina R. Jones

November 3, 2025

This image was generated using artificial intelligence to illustrate the appearance of the recipe.

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If you’re looking for a quick, mouthwatering appetizer that will impress your friends, let me introduce you to my crispy air fryer bang bang shrimp! These little gems are coated in a crunchy panko crust and tossed with a luscious, spicy sauce that just sings on your taste buds. The best part? You can whip them up in no time at all—perfect for those last-minute gatherings or cozy nights in. Trust me, once you take that first bite, you’ll be hooked on the combination of crispy texture and that kick of heat. Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients for Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp

Gather these simple ingredients to create your delicious air fryer bang bang shrimp. The combination of fresh shrimp and flavorful coatings makes this dish a standout!

1 pound shrimp: Make sure they’re peeled and deveined for the best texture.
1 cup panko breadcrumbs: These give the shrimp that irresistible crunch!
1/2 cup flour: Helps the coating stick perfectly to the shrimp.
1 egg: Beaten, to create a binding layer for the breadcrumbs.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavor of the shrimp.
1/2 teaspoon pepper: Adds a touch of warmth to the seasoning.
1/2 cup mayonnaise: Forms the creamy base for the bang bang sauce.
2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce: This brings a lovely sweetness to the sauce.
1 tablespoon sriracha: For that spicy kick that makes this dish sing!

With these ingredients on hand, you’re all set to create a fantastic appetizer that everyone will love!

How to Prepare Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the preparation! This part is super fun and fairly easy, trust me. Follow these steps to make your bang bang shrimp shine!

Prepping the Shrimp

First things first, if your shrimp aren’t already peeled and deveined, you’ll want to take care of that. Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This step is crucial because it helps the coating adhere better. Once cleaned, they’re ready to be transformed into something delicious!

Coating the Shrimp

Let’s create a breading station! In one bowl, mix together the flour, salt, and pepper. In a second bowl, beat the egg until it’s nice and smooth. Then, pour the panko breadcrumbs into a third bowl. Now, take each shrimp and dip it into the flour mixture first—this helps the egg stick. Next, coat it in the egg, letting the excess drip off, then roll it in those crunchy panko breadcrumbs. Make sure the shrimp are evenly coated; it makes all the difference in texture! Place the breaded shrimp on a plate and get ready to cook!

Cooking in the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. Once it’s nice and hot, arrange the shrimp in the basket in a single layer. Don’t overcrowd them; they need space to crisp up! Cook them for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure they get that beautiful golden brown color all over. Keep an eye on them, as air fryers can vary a bit, and you want that perfect crunch without overcooking!

Making the Bang Bang Sauce

While the shrimp are cooking, let’s whip up the bang bang sauce! In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha. Adjust the sriracha to your taste—if you like it spicier, go for it! This sauce adds a creamy and spicy kick that pairs perfectly with your crispy shrimp!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: With just 25 minutes from start to finish, you can have a delicious appetizer ready in no time!
Crispy Perfection: The air fryer gives the shrimp a golden, crunchy texture that’s simply irresistible.
Flavorful Sauce: The bang bang sauce combines creamy and spicy elements that elevate every bite.
Perfect for Gatherings: Whether it’s a party or a cozy night in, this dish is sure to impress your guests.
Customizable Heat: Adjust the spice level by tweaking the sriracha, making it great for everyone!

Trust me, once you try these air fryer bang bang shrimp, they’ll become your go-to appetizer for any occasion!

Tips for Success

To ensure your air fryer bang bang shrimp turn out perfectly every time, here are a few handy tips! First, don’t skip the flour step; it helps the egg and panko stick better. If you want extra crunch, try adding an additional layer of panko. Adjust the sriracha in the bang bang sauce to match your spice preference—start with a little and add more if you like it hot! And remember, serve them immediately for that unbeatable crispy texture!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick look at the estimated nutritional values for a serving of air fryer bang bang shrimp. Each serving contains approximately 320 calories, 18g of fat, 15g of protein, and 30g of carbohydrates. Keep in mind these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients used. Enjoy your delicious shrimp guilt-free!

FAQ Section

Got questions about my air fryer bang bang shrimp? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries:

How do I store leftovers? If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just know that they’re best enjoyed fresh for that crispy texture!
Can I use frozen shrimp? Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before coating. This helps the breading stick better.
What can I substitute for mayonnaise? If you’re not a mayo fan, Greek yogurt works beautifully as a lighter alternative. It adds creaminess and tang!
How can I make these shrimp spicier? Simply increase the amount of sriracha in the sauce, or even sprinkle some cayenne pepper on the shrimp before air frying!
What side dishes pair well with this appetizer? These bang bang shrimp go wonderfully with a fresh salad, crispy fries, or even some steamed veggies for a complete meal!

Serving Suggestions

To create a delightful meal around your air fryer bang bang shrimp, consider pairing them with a refreshing cucumber salad that adds a cool crunch. Crispy fries or sweet potato wedges on the side complement the shrimp’s spicy kick beautifully. For drinks, a zesty lemonade or a chilled white wine can balance the heat perfectly. You can even serve them as part of a fun tapas spread with other appetizers—your guests will love the variety!