Save Pin Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp is my go-to appetizer when I want something crispy, saucy, and a little bit spicy without deep frying. This recipe recreates the restaurant favorite with less mess and all the flavor right from your own kitchen. Whether for a party or an indulgent weeknight dinner, it never fails to impress.
Every time I pull a batch from the air fryer, the smell alone draws my family into the kitchen. The first time I served these, my friends could not believe they were homemade rather than from our favorite takeout spot.
Ingredients
- Large raw shrimp: peeled and deveined for juicy bites that cook evenly Look for firm shrimp with a fresh scent for best flavor
- Cornstarch: ensures a shatteringly crisp coating Better than flour for getting that signature crunch
- Eggs: help the coating stick and form a perfect crust Choose the freshest eggs for reliable binding
- Panko breadcrumbs: deliver that airy crunch Use Japanese style panko for best results
- Mayonnaise: is the base of the bang bang sauce Creamy and rich go for real egg mayo if you can
- Sweet chili sauce: brings that hit of sweetness and mild heat Read labels and pick a brand with natural ingredients
- Sriracha: gives everything its signature spicy kick Adjust the amount to your ideal spice level
- Honey: rounds out the flavors and adds shine to the sauce Local honey adds an extra touch of freshness if available
- Green onions and sesame seeds: add brightness and a bit of crunch at the end Always slice green onions right before serving so they stay fresh and crisp
Instructions
- Prep the Shrimp:
- Pat shrimp dry with paper towels and lightly season with salt to help the coating stick and prevent excess moisture during cooking
- Coat the Shrimp:
- Set up three shallow bowls Fill the first with cornstarch the second with beaten eggs and the third with panko Dredge each shrimp first in cornstarch so it is coated all over then dip into the egg for full coverage Finally press into the panko making sure every side gets coated well for maximum crunch
- Arrange Shrimp in the Air Fryer:
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with nonstick spray and arrange the coated shrimp in a single layer with space between each one Do not overcrowd so the airflow keeps them crispy
- Air Fry Until Golden:
- Cook at 400 degrees for about eight to ten minutes flipping halfway through Watch for the coating to turn a deep golden color and the shrimp to curl and firm up
- Toss with Bang Bang Sauce:
- While shrimp cooks whisk together mayonnaise sweet chili sauce sriracha and honey in a large mixing bowl Once shrimp are ready transfer directly to the bowl and gently toss to coat every piece evenly in sauce
- Garnish and Serve:
- Transfer the sauced shrimp to a platter Sprinkle with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for color and crunch Serve immediately while hot for the best texture
Save Pin Leftovers stay crispy with a quick reheat in the air fryer Sweet chili sauce is my secret weapon here It adds so much fruity flavor that even kids love the dish I will never forget serving these for my son’s birthday and seeing a whole table of kids happily gobbling down shrimp
Storage Tips
Store any leftover shrimp in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to two days To re-crisp simply air fry for two to three minutes before serving Keep the sauce separate if you plan on storing for best texture
Ingredient Substitutions
If you do not have panko try crushed cornflakes for an equal crunch Swap out shrimp for chicken bites if needed and adjust the cook time Vegan mayo is a great alternative for a dairy free sauce
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish as an appetizer with toothpicks for dipping at parties Layer over simple rice bowls with extra vegetables for a satisfying dinner Pair with a crisp salad or slaw to balance the richness
Save Pin Taste your sauce before tossing and adjust the sriracha or honey to hit your perfect flavor balance
Recipe FAQs
- → What shrimp works best for bang bang shrimp?
Medium to large, peeled and deveined shrimp stay juicy and provide ideal texture for crisp coating.
- → Is the air fryer method healthier?
Air frying uses minimal oil, resulting in lower calorie shrimp with the same crispy exterior as deep frying.
- → How do I prevent soggy shrimp?
Pat shrimp dry and avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket for consistent crispiness.
- → Can I adjust the spiciness?
Use less sriracha or more mayonnaise in the sauce for a milder flavor, or add extra chili for real heat.
- → What sides pair well with bang bang shrimp?
Serve with refreshing salads, steamed rice, or fresh vegetables to balance the creamy sauce.