Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp
If you’re looking for a delightful and easy seafood dish that packs a punch, Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp is the perfect recipe to add to your repertoire. This dish combines crispy shrimp with a creamy, spicy sauce that will have your taste buds dancing. The air fryer makes it a healthier option without sacrificing flavor, allowing you to enjoy a restaurant-quality appetizer or main dish right at home. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers. Ready to dive into this mouthwatering dish? Let’s get started!
Why It’s My Go-To
Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp has become a staple in my kitchen for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly quick to make—perfect for those evenings when you want something delicious without hours of cooking. Second, the air fryer gives the shrimp a perfectly crispy exterior while keeping them juicy on the inside. Lastly, the sauce is what truly elevates this dish. The combination of sweet Thai chili sauce and Sriracha creates a flavor explosion that pairs beautifully with the shrimp. Whether served as an appetizer, a salad topping, or a delicious main course, it never disappoints!
What’s in the Bowl
To make this scrumptious Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp, you’ll need a few simple ingredients:
- 1 pound jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 cup flour or cornstarch
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- 1 egg
- Olive oil cooking spray, I used Pam olive oil spray
- 1/2 cup mayo, or light mayo
- 1/3 cup sweet Thai chili sauce
- 2 tablespoons Sriracha
These ingredients combine to create a delectable dish that is both satisfying and easy to prepare.
Prep & Cook Tools
Before you get started, gather the following tools to make your cooking experience smooth and efficient:
- Air fryer: The star of the show that ensures perfectly crispy shrimp without the excessive oil.
- Mixing bowls: For combining the ingredients and preparing the shrimp.
- Whisk: To beat the egg for coating the shrimp.
- Measuring cups and spoons: To accurately measure the ingredients.
- Cooking spray: To prevent sticking and promote crispiness.
- Tongs: For flipping the shrimp easily in the air fryer.
Having these tools ready will make the process much more enjoyable.
Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp: Step-by-Step Guide
Ready to cook? Follow these simple steps to create your Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp.
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
Start by rinsing the shrimp under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels. This helps to remove any excess moisture, ensuring a crispy finish.
Step 2: Season and Coat
In a mixing bowl, combine the flour or cornstarch with a pinch of salt and pepper. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg until fully beaten. Dip each shrimp first into the egg, allowing any excess to drip off, and then dredge it in the flour mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated.
Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3-5 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving that golden-brown crispiness on the shrimp.
Step 4: Spray and Arrange Shrimp
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil cooking spray to prevent sticking. Place the coated shrimp in a single layer in the basket, ensuring they aren’t overcrowded. You may need to cook them in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
Step 5: Cook the Shrimp
Air fry the shrimp for about 8-10 minutes, flipping them halfway through. They should be golden brown and crispy when done.
Step 6: Make the Bang Bang Sauce
While the shrimp are cooking, prepare the bang bang sauce. In a mixing bowl, combine the mayo, sweet Thai chili sauce, and Sriracha. Adjust the Sriracha to your spice preference for a bit more heat.
Step 7: Toss and Serve
Once the shrimp are cooked, remove them from the air fryer and place them in a clean bowl. Drizzle the bang bang sauce over the shrimp and toss to coat evenly. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped green onions or sesame seeds if desired.
Healthier Substitutions
If you’re looking to lighten up this dish even further, consider these substitutions:
- Use cornstarch instead of flour: This can make the coating lighter and crispier.
- Light mayo: Opt for light mayo instead of regular mayo to cut down on calories.
- Reduce Sriracha: If you prefer less heat, reduce the amount of Sriracha in the sauce or use a milder hot sauce.
- Quinoa or brown rice: Serve the shrimp over quinoa or brown rice for a nutritious base instead of white rice.
Making these adjustments can help you enjoy this dish while maintaining a balanced diet.
Testing Timeline
If you want to perfect your Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp, consider the following timeline for testing and improving your recipe:
- First attempt: Make the dish as described. Note the cooking time and shrimp texture.
- Second attempt: Adjust the seasoning and sauce based on your taste preferences.
- Third attempt: Experiment with different cooking times for varying levels of crispiness.
- Final attempt: Perfect your bang bang sauce ratio to achieve the ideal balance of flavors.
This timeline will help you hone your skills and create the best version of Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp that suits your palate.
Refrigerate, Freeze, Reheat
To store and enjoy your Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp later, follow these tips:
- Refrigerate: Store any leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: If you have extras, freeze the cooked shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months.
- Reheat: To reheat, place the shrimp in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes to restore crispiness.
Proper storage will help maintain the shrimp’s flavor and texture for your next meal.
Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Q&A
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before coating and cooking.
What can I serve with Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp?
This dish pairs well with a variety of sides, including rice, salad, or even as a topping for tacos. You can also serve it as an appetizer with toothpicks for easy snacking.
Can I make the bang bang sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the bang bang sauce a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir before using it on the shrimp.
How can I make this dish spicier?
If you enjoy a kick, consider adding more Sriracha to the sauce or incorporating other spicy ingredients like red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
Make It Tonight
Now that you have the recipe and tips for making the perfect Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get cooking! This dish is not only satisfying but also a fun way to impress your family and friends with your culinary skills. The combination of crispy shrimp and creamy, spicy sauce is sure to be a hit at any gathering or simply as a delicious weeknight dinner. Enjoy every bite, and don’t forget to share your masterpiece!
Making Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp is a delightful experience that transforms simple ingredients into an unforgettable dish. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe is accessible and rewarding. Dive in, and savor the flavors of this exciting dish tonight!
Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by rinsing the shrimp under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the flour or cornstarch with a pinch of salt and pepper. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg until fully beaten. Dip each shrimp into the egg, allowing excess to drip off, then dredge in the flour mixture.
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3-5 minutes.
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil cooking spray. Place the coated shrimp in a single layer, ensuring they aren't overcrowded.
- Air fry the shrimp for about 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden brown and crispy.
- While the shrimp are cooking, prepare the bang bang sauce by combining mayo, sweet Thai chili sauce, and Sriracha in a mixing bowl.
- Once the shrimp are cooked, remove them from the air fryer, drizzle the bang bang sauce over the shrimp, and toss to coat evenly. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Use cornstarch instead of flour for a lighter coating.
- Opt for light mayo to reduce calories.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
