Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp

Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp is a delightful dish that brings together crispy shrimp with a creamy, spicy sauce. Perfect for game nights, gatherings, or a simple weeknight dinner, this recipe is not only easy to prepare but also packs a flavorful punch. The air fryer ensures the shrimp are perfectly cooked and golden brown without the need for deep frying, making it a healthier option.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just over 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of spicy Sriracha and sweet chili sauce creates an irresistible flavor that everyone will love.
• Healthier Option: Cooking in an air fryer reduces the amount of oil needed while still achieving that perfect crunch.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve these shrimp as an appetizer, on top of salads, or as part of a main course with rice or veggies.
• Customizable Heat Levels: Adjust the amount of Sriracha in the sauce to suit your family’s taste preferences.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can make all the difference when preparing Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp. Here’s what you’ll need to ensure smooth cooking.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Air fryer
• Mixing bowls
• Tongs
• Measuring cups and spoons

Why These Tools Matter

• Air fryer: This appliance cooks food quickly while giving it a crispy texture without excess oil.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients and breading the shrimp evenly.
• Tongs: Perfect for flipping and removing the shrimp from the air fryer safely.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accuracy in ingredient amounts for consistent results.

Ingredients

Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp is made with simple yet delicious ingredients that come together to create this amazing dish.

For the Sauce

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• ¼ cup Thai sweet chili sauce
• ½ teaspoon Sriracha
• 1 tablespoon honey

For the Shrimp Coating

• 1 pound shrimp (peeled, deveined, tail removed)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 cup panko

Additional Items

• Nonstick cooking spray

How to Make Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp

Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C). While it’s heating up, spray the basket with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, combine the following ingredients:
1. ½ cup mayonnaise
2. ¼ cup Thai sweet chili sauce
3. ½ teaspoon Sriracha
4. 1 tablespoon honey

Mix well until fully combined and set aside.

Step 3: Set Up Your Dredging Station

Arrange three bowls for breading:
1. In the first bowl, add 1 cup all-purpose flour.
2. In the second bowl, pour in 1 cup buttermilk.
3. In the third bowl, add 1 cup panko.

Step 4: Coat the Shrimp

For each piece of shrimp:
1. First dredge it in flour, ensuring it’s fully coated.
2. Next, dip it into buttermilk so that it’s wet all over.
3. Finally, coat it with panko crumbs by gently pressing them onto the shrimp.

Step 5: Air Frying the Shrimp

Place the coated shrimp in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Spray their tops lightly with nonstick cooking spray. Cook for about 6 minutes before flipping them over with tongs. Cook for another 6 minutes until they are golden brown and crispy.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Once cooked, remove your crispy shrimp from the air fryer and coat them generously with the bang bang sauce you prepared earlier. Serve immediately and enjoy this delectable dish!

How to Serve Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp

Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp is a delicious and versatile dish that can be served in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a quiet dinner at home, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal and impress your guests.

On a Bed of Greens

• Serve the shrimp on a fresh bed of mixed greens for a light and healthy option. Drizzle with extra bang bang sauce for added flavor.

In Tacos

• Use soft tortillas to create bang bang shrimp tacos. Top with shredded cabbage, diced tomatoes, and a squeeze of lime for a zesty touch.

With Rice

• Pair the shrimp with fluffy jasmine rice or brown rice. The rice soaks up the flavors from the bang bang sauce perfectly, making each bite delightful.

As an Appetizer

• Present the shrimp as an appetizer at your next gathering. Skewer them with toothpicks for easy serving and dipping into extra sauce.

With Dipping Sauces

• Offer a variety of dipping sauces alongside the shrimp. Options like spicy mayo, garlic aioli, or even guacamole can complement the flavors well.

In Salad Bowls

• Create a vibrant salad bowl by adding the shrimp to quinoa, avocado, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber. Top it off with your favorite dressing for a complete meal.

How to Perfect Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp

To achieve the best Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp, follow these tips to ensure they turn out crispy and flavorful every time.

• Preheat your air fryer: Always preheat the air fryer for even cooking and better crispiness.
• Use fresh shrimp: Fresh or high-quality frozen shrimp ensures better taste and texture compared to lower quality options.
• Don’t overcrowd the basket: Cook in batches if necessary to allow hot air circulation, which leads to crispier shrimp.
• Adjust cooking time if needed: Depending on your air fryer model, cooking times may vary. Keep an eye on them for perfect doneness.
• Coat evenly: Make sure each piece of shrimp is evenly coated with panko for maximum crunch.
• Serve immediately: For the best texture, serve the shrimp right after cooking while they’re still hot and crispy.

Best Side Dishes for Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp

Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that enhance its flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Coconut Rice – This sweet and nutty rice complements the spicy shrimp beautifully.
2. Coleslaw – A crunchy coleslaw adds freshness and balances the richness of the sauce.
3. Garlic Bread – Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover bang bang sauce.
4. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrition to your meal.
5. Sweet Potato Fries – The sweetness of these fries pairs nicely with the tangy flavor of the shrimp.
6. Corn on the Cob – Grilled or boiled corn provides a classic summer side that everyone loves.
7. Caesar Salad – A creamy Caesar salad adds richness that complements the crispy textures of the dish.
8. Fruit Salad – A light fruit salad offers a refreshing contrast to the savory flavors of the shrimp.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp, avoiding common mistakes can elevate your dish significantly. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the dredging process: Not properly coating the shrimp can result in a soggy texture. Always follow the three-step dredging process: flour, buttermilk, and panko.
• Overcrowding the air fryer: Placing too many shrimp in the basket at once can lead to uneven cooking. Cook in batches to ensure each piece gets that perfect crispiness.
• Not preheating the air fryer: Failing to preheat can yield undercooked shrimp. Always preheat your air fryer for optimal results.
• Ignoring cooking time: Cooking shrimp for too long can make them tough. Check for doneness around the 12-minute mark and adjust as necessary.
• Forgetting to spray with oil: Skipping this step can result in less crispy shrimp. Be sure to lightly spray with nonstick cooking spray before and after placing shrimp in the air fryer.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow shrimp to cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezing Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp

• Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag.
• Can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Reheating Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F and place shrimp on a baking sheet. Bake for about 10-12 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place shrimp on a microwave-safe plate and cover loosely with a damp paper towel. Heat in short intervals until warmed.
• Stovetop: Heat a pan over medium heat and add a little oil. Sauté shrimp for 3-5 minutes until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp?

Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp is a delicious appetizer featuring crispy shrimp coated in a creamy, spicy bang bang sauce.

How long does it take to cook Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp?

It takes about 12 minutes total—6 minutes on each side—to achieve that perfect golden brown color.

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just make sure they are fully thawed and patted dry before coating.

What can I serve with Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp?

These shrimp pair well with rice, salad, or as part of a seafood platter. Enjoy them as an appetizer or main dish!

Conclusion

Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp is an appealing dish that combines crispy texture with rich flavors from the homemade sauce. This versatile recipe allows for customization; feel free to adjust spice levels or try different dipping sauces. Give it a try, and delight your taste buds!

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