Appetizers

Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp

Name: Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup cornstarch; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp pepper; 1 egg; 1 cup panko breadcrumbs; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 2 tbsp sweet chili sauce; 1 tsp Sriracha sauce (or to taste); 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)

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Why Make This Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp

Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp is a delightful dish that combines crispy, golden shrimp with a creamy, spicy sauce, making it a perfect treat for seafood lovers! Cooking with an air fryer reduces the oil typically needed for frying, providing a healthier alternative without sacrificing flavor or texture. This recipe is quick to prepare and cook, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or impressing guests at a dinner party. Whether served as an appetizer or main dish, this dish is sure to be a hit!

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving: 340
Protein: 24 g
Carbohydrates: 36 g
Fat: 14 g
Fiber: 1 g
Sugar: 2 g
Sodium: 550 mg

How to Make Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp

Ingredients:

1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup cornstarch
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp pepper
1 egg
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
1/2 cup mayonnaise
2 tbsp sweet chili sauce
1 tsp Sriracha sauce (or to taste)
2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)

Directions:

Step 1: Preparation

Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that the shrimp will cook evenly and become crispy on the outside.

Step 2: Mixing

In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. This dry mixture will help create a flavorful coating for the shrimp.

Step 3: Coating

In another bowl, whisk the egg until slightly frothy. Dip each shrimp first in the flour mixture to coat, then in the egg, and finally roll them in panko breadcrumbs, ensuring they are nicely coated on all sides. This triple layering will contribute to a satisfying crunch.

Step 4: Cooking

Place the coated shrimp in a single layer in the air fryer basket. For an extra crispy finish, spray them lightly with cooking spray. Cook for about 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the shrimp are golden brown and crispy.

Step 5: Finishing

While the shrimp are cooking, prepare the Bang Bang sauce by mixing mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and Sriracha in a bowl. Adjust the Sriracha to your preferred spice level. Once the shrimp are done, serve them drizzled with the sauce and garnished with sliced green onions.

How to Serve Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp

Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or steamed rice. You can serve it as a lively appetizer or as a main dish. A side of extra sauce for dipping can really elevate the dining experience! This dish is also perfect for game day gatherings or as a party snack.

How to Store Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp

To store leftover Bang Bang Shrimp, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, return them to the air fryer for a few minutes until they regain their crispiness. Avoid microwaving as this will make them soggy.

Expert Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp

Ensure your shrimp are dry after washing to help the breading stick better.
Experiment with different herbs and spices in the flour mixture to tailor the flavor to your preference.
Consider adding a squeeze of lime juice over the shrimp just before serving for a zesty kick.
You can use frozen shrimp; just thaw them thoroughly before preparing.

Delicious Variations

Bang Bang Cauliflower: Swap shrimp for cauliflower florets for a delightful vegetarian option.
Spicy Sauce Variation: For a more intense flavor, add minced garlic or finely chopped herbs to the Bang Bang sauce.
Air Fryer Tofu: For a plant-based twist, replace shrimp with firm tofu, cut into bite-sized pieces and treat them the same as the shrimp.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just be sure to thaw them thoroughly before cooking for the best texture and flavor.

Can I use a different type of flour?

Absolutely! Alternatives like almond flour or gluten-free flour work well too. Keep in mind that the taste and texture might slightly change.

How do I know when the shrimp are done cooking?

Shrimp cook quickly, and they’re done when they turn opaque and pink. A digital thermometer should read 120°F (49°C).

Is there a non-spicy version of the sauce?

Yes! You can skip the Sriracha sauce if you want a milder sauce, or substitute it with a little lime juice for extra flavor without the heat.

How can I make this dish lower in calories?

You can reduce the amount of mayonnaise in the sauce and use less sugar in the sweet chili sauce, or find lighter, reduced-fat alternatives.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp is an easy and delicious recipe that brings bold flavors to your table without the fuss of traditional frying. The crispy coating, combined with the rich, creamy sauce, creates a perfect harmony of textures and tastes. This recipe is not only straightforward but also offers a fun way to enjoy shrimp while being versatile for any occasion. We encourage you to give it a try; you won’t be disappointed by this crowd-pleaser!