The Best Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe: Quick, Easy, and Healthier Version

As a busy ER doctor who works night shifts, I don’t have time to mess around in the kitchen with complicated recipes or endless cleanup. But I also get tired of eating the same takeout options over and over—especially since most places aren’t even open when I’m at work and need to eat some dinner! That’s why I’ve fallen in love with this Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp recipe.

It’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor—perfect for someone like me who wants a satisfying meal without spending hours cooking. Plus, the air fryer keeps it healthier, which is a win when you’re trying to eat well on a crazy schedule.

This recipe is my go-to for those days when I want something delicious without the hassle. Whether I’m enjoying it over cauliflower rice, stuffing it into tacos, or pairing it with a side of sweet Thai chili sauce, it always hits the spot. If you’ve ever craved that crispy, creamy, spicy goodness of Bang Bang Shrimp from a restaurant like Bonefish Grill, you’re going to love making it at home—and it’s way easier than you’d think.

Jump to Recipe

What is Bang Bang Shrimp?

Bang Bang Shrimp is a crave-worthy dish that’s made a name for itself as a popular appetizer and main course. Known for its crispy texture and creamy, spicy sauce, this seafood favorite is often compared to a perfect harmony of heat and sweetness balanced in every bite. If you’ve ever dined at Bonefish Grill, you’ve likely seen their famous Bang Bang Shrimp on the menu—it’s a fan favorite! Whether served as part of a complete meal, over rice, in tacos, or on its own, this dish has found its way into the hearts (and stomachs) of many.

The Shrimp

The star of the dish? Tender, juicy shrimp! Most recipes use deveined shrimp, often medium to jumbo size, which are breaded and fried to a perfect golden brown. This gives them a satisfying crunch that pairs beautifully with the sauce. You’ll often find cornstarch, panko breadcrumbs, or even a cornstarch mixture involved in the breading process, ensuring that the shrimp cook up irresistibly crispy.

Some variations swap fried shrimp for air-fried or baked versions for a healthier twist, but the goal is always the same: keep them tender on the inside while creating a crunchy, golden exterior.

The Sauce

The “bang” in Bang Bang Shrimp comes from its signature creamy sauce. It’s a mix of spicy mayo sauce, typically made with ingredients like sriracha, spicy hot sauce, and sweet Thai chili sauce. Some recipes add a splash of lemon juice, a dollop of sour cream, or even Greek yogurt to balance the heat with a touch of tanginess.

This sauce is what takes the dish to the next level, coating the crispy shrimp in a flavorful glaze that’s equally addicting and satisfying. It’s often likened to a sweet and spicy hug for your taste buds.

How It’s Cooked

Traditionally, Bang Bang Shrimp are fried in hot oil, often vegetable oil or peanut oil, which helps achieve that perfect golden crust. If deep frying feels like too much mess, recipes now recommend using an air fryer, where the shrimp can crisp up in a single layer without the added excess oil. Regardless of the method, ensuring the shrimp are evenly coated and cooked at the right temperature of the oil is key.

If frying isn’t your style, baked Bang Bang Shrimp can still achieve a crunchy texture with a light drizzle of olive oil or sesame oil over the breaded shrimp before placing them on a baking sheet or wire rack. Taking the time to cook in small batches ensures every piece is just right and nothing gets soggy.

What Makes it a Crowd-Pleaser?

Bang Bang Shrimp isn’t just about the taste; it’s about versatility. You can serve it in countless ways, making it perfect for every occasion. Popular combinations include:

•  Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos: Tuck them into tortillas with shredded green cabbage and an extra squeeze of lime.
•  Over rice: Pair crispy shrimp with cauliflower rice, white rice, or even brown rice for a quick main dish.
•  As a snack: Serve with extra sweet Thai chili sauce for dipping.
•  In pasta: Toss them into linguine or penne to create a creamy Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta.

Whether you call it a simple appetizer or a delicious recipe for a hearty meal, Bang Bang Shrimp has earned its spot as a must-try dish. And the best part? You can make it ahead, store it in an airtight container, and still keep it fresh and tasty. What could be better than that?

Why Use an Air Fryer?

Air fryers are taking over kitchens, and for good reason. They offer a faster, healthier way to achieve crispy, golden-brown perfection without the hassle of deep frying. Whether you’re making Bang Bang Shrimp, popcorn shrimp, or another family favorite, the air fryer simplifies cooking and elevates flavor.

Healthier Cooking with Less Oil

Traditional frying soaks food in oil, adding unwanted calories and fat. With an air fryer, you can skip the excess oil while still getting a satisfying crunch. Instead of deep frying in peanut oil or vegetable oil, you’ll use just a drizzle of olive oil or none at all. The result? Crispy shrimp or firecracker shrimp that’s lower in unhealthy fats but still delicious.

Time-Saving Convenience

Need dinner on the table fast? Air fryers heat up quickly and cook food faster than a large oven or deep fryer. That Bang Bang Shrimp recipe you love? It crisps up beautifully in minutes without the wait or mess of frying with hot oil in a Dutch oven or large skillet. Perfect for weeknight meals or last-minute appetizers.

Easy Cleanup

Hate scrubbing pots and pans? Air fryers reduce cleanup time. Say goodbye to greasy splatters and wiping excess cornstarch off your counter. The basket is typically dishwasher-safe, making cleanup a breeze after cooking crispy shrimp, breaded shrimp, or smaller shrimp in small batches.

Perfect for Small Batches

Air fryers are designed for efficiency. Cooking in a single layer ensures even, golden-brown results, especially for small-batch recipes like Bang Bang Shrimp tacos. This feature also makes it great for reheating leftovers, so your cooked shrimp stays crispy without turning soggy.

Versatility in Cooking

Air fryers aren’t just for frying. They can bake, roast, and reheat food. You can whip up creamy Bang Bang Shrimp pasta, roast veggies, or even toast panko breadcrumbs to golden perfection. It’s a one-stop appliance for quick, easy, and delicious recipes.

Why not use an air fryer? It’s faster, healthier, and easier to clean—making it a must for any kitchen.

Ingredients for Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp

Creating Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp at home is easier than you think! With the right ingredients and a bit of preparation, you can recreate restaurant-worthy, crispy shrimp with that irresistible sweet-and-spicy Bang Bang Sauce. Here’s everything you need to know about preparing the shrimp and coating them for that golden brown crunch.

Shrimp Preparation

The foundation of this dish is, of course, the shrimp. To ensure the best results:

•  Pick the right size: Use medium to jumbo-sized shrimp that are peeled, deveined, and tails removed for easy munching.
•  Fresh or frozen?: Fresh shrimp is always great if you can get it, but frozen shrimp works just as well. Just make sure they’re thawed properly and patted dry with a paper towel to avoid excess moisture.
•  Cleaning matters: Rinse the shrimp thoroughly and ensure the veins are removed. This step is crucial for tender shrimp free of grit.
•  Season lightly: Toss the shrimp in a bit of black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. This adds a subtle kick of flavor before the coating even begins.

Coating Ingredients

The crispy coating is what makes Bang Bang Shrimp so special. Here’s what you’ll need and why:

• Cornstarch: The first step in breading. Cornstarch ensures a light, crispy exterior and gives that perfect bite without feeling heavy.
• Panko Breadcrumbs: These flaky crumbs deliver an airy, extra-crispy texture your regular breadcrumbs can’t compete with. Toast them lightly beforehand for even more crunch and flavor.
• Spices: Additions like garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper mixed into the breadcrumbs ensure every bite of shrimp bursts with flavor.
• Optional for more flavor: Sprinkle in a dash of paprika or cayenne for a little heat.

Tips for Breading

• Work in small batches: Coat a few shrimp at a time to keep the process neat and ensure each shrimp is evenly coated.
• Use a single layer: Place the shrimp on a wire rack or baking sheet in a single layer after breading. This prevents clumping and ensures even air frying later.

By preparing your shrimp with care and layering these coating ingredients properly, you’re set up for crispy shrimp perfection. Get ready to air fry them to a golden brown and pair them with that unforgettable Bang Bang Sauce!

Step-by-Step Instructions

How to Make Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp

Let’s walk through the steps to make this delicious Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp! It’s super easy, and I promise it will become one of your favorite go-to recipes.

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1. Start with a Buttermilk Bath

Grab a bowl and toss in your peeled and deveined shrimp (about 1 pound). Cover them with buttermilk—just enough to make sure they’re fully submerged. Let them soak for 10-15 minutes. This step keeps the shrimp tender and helps the coating stick like magic.

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2. Set Up Your Coating Station

While the shrimp are hanging out in their buttermilk bath, get your coating ready.

• In one shallow bowl, mix together breadcrumbs (plain or Italian-style), salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
• In another bowl, pour in your cornstarch.

You now have a little shrimp breading assembly line!

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3. Coat the Shrimp

Take a few shrimp at a time out of the buttermilk. First, dredge them in the cornstarch and shake off the excess. Then, coat them in the breadcrumb mixture. Press the breadcrumbs on gently to make sure they stick. Once coated, set the shrimp aside on a plate. Repeat until all your shrimp are ready to go.

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4. Air Fry Time!

Preheat your air fryer to 390°F. Give the basket a good spray with cooking spray (I like olive oil or avocado oil for this).

Lay the shrimp in a single layer in the basket. Don’t overcrowd them—give each shrimp a little breathing room so they crisp up nicely. Cook for 3 minutes, then flip them over and cook for another 3 minutes.

Pro tip: Depending on the size of your air fryer, you might need to work in batches. Trust me, the crispy results are worth it.

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5. Make the Bang Bang Sauce

Now for the magic sauce! In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha. That’s it—your creamy, spicy Bang Bang Sauce is ready to go. Adjust the sriracha to your heat preference.

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6. Toss and Serve

Once all your shrimp are cooked to crispy perfection, toss them in the Bang Bang Sauce. Make sure each shrimp is coated in that delicious, creamy glaze.

Serve them over a bed of rice, sprinkle with chopped green onions if you’re feeling fancy, and dig in!

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A Few Notes:

• If you want extra crispy shrimp, give them a light spray of cooking oil before popping them into the air fryer.
• Cook time may vary slightly depending on your air fryer model, so keep an eye on them.

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Variations of Bang Bang Sauce

Want to try something different or cater to dietary needs? Bang Bang Sauce is incredibly versatile. Here are fresh ideas to shake things up:

• Healthier Version: Swap mayonnaise for Greek yogurt or reduced-fat mayo. It keeps the creaminess while cutting down fat.
• Extra Tangy: Add a squeeze of lemon juice or lime for a bright, citrusy twist.
• Spicier Kick: Use more Sriracha, a dash of hot sauce, or even minced red chili peppers.
• Soy Sauce Addition: A splash of soy sauce deepens the umami flavors and adds a savory edge.
• Honey-Sriracha Combo: Adjust sweetness by replacing sugar with honey or agave syrup.
• Garlic and Onion Lovers: Toss in a pinch of onion powder or extra garlic powder for more aromatic depth.
• Asian Fusion: Try adding sesame oil or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for a nutty finish.
• Plant-Based Option: Use vegan mayo to make a dairy-free version without losing flavor.

Don’t feel confined to the recipe—personalize it to your taste! Whether it’s for Bang Bang Shrimp tacos, pasta, or even a dipping sauce for fried shrimp, this sauce adapts beautifully.

Serving Suggestions

Bang Bang Shrimp is as versatile as it is delicious, making it perfect for snacks, meals, or party platters. Whether you’re hosting a crowd or preparing a quick dinner, there are endless ways to enjoy this crispy, spicy, and flavorful dish. Here are some serving ideas that will bring your Bang Bang Shrimp recipe to life.

As an Appetizer

Serve Bang Bang Shrimp as a bold and flavorful appetizer to kick off the meal.

• On a Platter: Arrange the crispy shrimp on a large plate with fresh lime wedges, green onions, and extra Bang Bang Sauce on the side for dipping.
• In Shooter Glasses: Place a few shrimp in each glass, with a dollop of spicy mayo sauce at the bottom.
• Bite-Size Skewers: Thread smaller shrimp onto mini skewers and serve alongside Thai sweet chili sauce or a creamy sauce for a simple appetizer option.

Perfect for game days or parties, these quick-to-make options will disappear in minutes.

Over Rice or Grains

Turn Bang Bang Shrimp into a hearty main course or complete meal by serving it over rice or grains.

• Classic White Rice: A bed of fluffy white rice pairs wonderfully with the rich Bang Bang Sauce.
• Cauliflower Rice: Keep it light by serving the shrimp over cauliflower rice, adding a guilt-free twist.
• Brown Rice or Quinoa: For a heartier meal packed with protein and fiber, use either grain as a base.
• Fried Rice: Incorporating fried rice with veggies and egg adds an extra layer of flavor.

Drizzle the sauce over the top for a mouthwatering bowl.

In Bowls or Salads

Create fresh, vibrant bowls or salads as a beautiful way to enjoy Bang Bang Shrimp.

• Shrimp Bowls: Build a bowl with your favorite toppings like shredded purple cabbage, sliced avocado, diced mango, and cilantro.
• Salads: Toss the shrimp onto a bed of mixed greens, cucumber, and cherry tomatoes. Add a drizzle of sesame oil or rice vinegar.
• Grain Bowls: Layer cooked shrimp over quinoa or farro, then top with slaw, green onions, and spicy sauce.

These bowls are perfect for a lunch that’s healthy yet satisfying.

In Tacos or Wraps

For handheld fun, use shrimp as the centerpiece of tacos, wraps, or lettuce cups.

• Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos: Stuff soft tortillas with the shrimp, shredded green cabbage, a squirt of lime, and a drizzle of creamy sauce.
• Lettuce Cups: Use butter lettuce leaves as a wrap to keep things light and crunchy.
• Rice Paper Wraps: Add shrimp to rice paper rolls with julienned carrots, cucumber, and mint for a fresh, summery option.

These formats make Bang Bang Shrimp feel like a completely new recipe every time.

Paired with Sides

Round out your shrimp plate with complementary sides to create a memorable meal.

•  Vegetable Stir Fry: Pair the shrimp with lightly sautéed zucchini, broccoli, or bell peppers for balance.
•  Roasted Vegetables: Carrots and Brussels sprouts roasted in olive oil are a wholesome addition.
•  French Fries or Sweet Potato Fries: Go classic and serve them alongside crispy fries. Toss in a pinch of garlic powder and paprika for extra flavor.

Adding sides transforms this popular dish into a full-fledged dinner.

Bang Bang Shrimp’s flexibility means you can mix and match serving styles. Whether it’s piled high on a plate, stuffed into tortillas, or balanced over rice, it’s all about creating your ideal meal—or snack.

Storage Tips

Proper storage of your Bang Bang Shrimp ensures you can enjoy this popular dish later without losing its crispy shrimp texture. Whether you have leftovers or want to prep ahead, here’s how to store and reheat your shrimp properly.

Storing Leftover Bang Bang Shrimp

After you’ve enjoyed your shrimp, storing leftovers correctly is crucial to keep them fresh and flavorful. Follow these steps:

 1. Cool Completely: Let the shrimp cool to room temperature before storing. Placing hot shrimp in the fridge can cause moisture build-up, making the coating soggy.

 2. Use an Airtight Container: Place the shrimp in an airtight container to preserve freshness. This prevents exposure to air, which can dry them out.

 3. Separate the Sauce: If possible, keep the Bang Bang Sauce separate. Storing the shrimp and sauce together can lead to a mushy texture.

 4. Refrigerate Promptly: Store the container in the fridge within two hours of cooking. The shrimp will stay fresh for up to 2-3 days.

Reheating Bang Bang Shrimp

Reheating shrimp can be tricky—nobody likes soggy breading. Here’s how to bring them back to their golden-brown glory:

 1. Use an Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F. Arrange the shrimp in a single layer and heat for 3-4 minutes, flipping halfway through. This helps restore their crispiness.

 2. Oven Option: Preheat your oven to 375°F. Place the shrimp on a wire rack over a baking sheet and reheat for about 8 minutes.

 3. Avoid the Microwave: Microwaving is quick, but it softens the coating. Stick to methods that allow airflow for a crisp finish.

Freezing Bang Bang Shrimp

Want to store shrimp for longer? Freezing is an option, but it requires careful steps:

 1. Flash Freeze: Arrange cooled shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze for 1-2 hours until firm.

 2. Pack Properly: Transfer shrimp to a freezer bag or airtight container. Remove as much air as possible before sealing.

 3. Label and Date: Mark the container with the date for easy tracking. Shrimp can be frozen for up to a month.

When you’re ready to eat, thaw the shrimp in the fridge overnight and follow the reheating tips above.

Storing Bang Bang Sauce

Keeping leftover Bang Bang Sauce fresh is easy:

•  Store the sauce in a separate airtight container in the fridge.
•  It should last for up to a week without losing flavor.
•  Stir well before using, as ingredients may settle over time.

Storing your Bang Bang Shrimp and its creamy sauce properly means you can enjoy this delicious appetizer or main course anytime with minimal fuss.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Bang Bang Shrimp, small missteps can derail your recipe. From soggy coatings to uneven cooking, skipping the basics can leave you with less-than-perfect results. Here are the most common mistakes and how to easily sidestep them.

Not Drying the Shrimp Properly

Moist shrimp will sabotage your crispy coating. Extra water dilutes the breading and makes it harder to stick. Always:

•  Pat shrimp dry thoroughly with a paper towel after rinsing.
•  Check for hidden moisture on peeled and deveined shrimp, especially frozen ones.

Skipping this step leaves you with soggy, sad shrimp instead of crispy, golden perfection.

Overcrowding the Cooking Surface

Whether using an air fryer, skillet, or baking sheet, cramming too much shrimp in one layer is a recipe for disaster. Overcrowding makes the shrimp steam instead of fry, leaving them pale and limp.

•  Cook in small batches, ensuring shrimp sit in a single layer.
•  For air fryers, keep some space between each piece to let hot air circulate evenly.

Patience pays off with crispy shrimp every time.

Using the Wrong Coating Order

The coating process is crucial for delivering that crunchy texture. If you skip or incorrectly layer ingredients, your shrimp won’t crisp up the way they should.

•  Apply cornstarch first to dry the surface and create a base layer.
•  Follow with an egg wash to help the breadcrumbs stick.
•  Finish with panko breadcrumbs for maximum crunch.

Skipping or rearranging this process makes your breading fall apart.

Incorrect Oil Temperature

Frying at the wrong temperature is a common mistake when cooking Bang Bang Shrimp. Cold oil makes the shrimp greasy, while overly hot oil burns the coating before the shrimp cook through.

•  Use a thermometer to keep oil at the perfect 375°F for frying.
•  For air fryers or ovens, ensure proper preheating to replicate the golden brown effect without excess oil.

Not monitoring your oil or air fryer temperature leads to uneven cooking and subpar results.

Tossing Shrimp in Sauce Too Early

Adding Bang Bang Sauce before the shrimp cools is a fast track to a soggy mess. Hot shrimp causes the sauce to break apart and lose its creamy texture.

•  Let your cooked shrimp rest at room temperature for 2-3 minutes before tossing in the sauce.
•  For extra crunch, serve the sauce on the side as a dip instead.

Timing is everything if you want crispy shrimp with perfectly thick sauce.

Forgetting to Preheat Equipment

Rushing the process by skipping preheating leads to unevenly cooked shrimp or less crispy coating. Whether you’re using an air fryer, oven, or large skillet, preheating matters.

•  Air fryer: Heat to 400°F for 3-5 minutes.
•  Skillet/Dutch oven: Bring oil to medium heat and check with a thermometer.

Cold equipment equals uneven cooking and disappointing texture.

Ignoring Flavor Layers

Bang Bang Shrimp isn’t just about spice; it’s about balanced flavor. Forgetting to season the shrimp or breadcrumbs can leave your dish underwhelming.

•  Season shrimp with garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper before breading.
•  Mix spices like paprika or cayenne into your panko for extra kick.

Taste layers make all the difference in this copycat recipe.

Not Controlling Moisture in Sauce

A watery Bang Bang Sauce can ruin the entire dish. Too much liquid from improper measurements or imbalanced ingredients makes the sauce slide off the shrimp.

•  Use measured amounts of sweet Thai chili sauce, Sriracha, and mayo.
•  If the sauce feels too thin, balance it with a tsp of sour cream or Greek yogurt.

A velvety, thick sauce clings beautifully to crispy shrimp, ensuring every bite packs flavor.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll nail that perfect combination of crispy coating, tender shrimp, and flavorful sauce—every single time!

As someone who works long hours and juggles a chaotic night-shift schedule, this Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp recipe has been a lifesaver. It’s quick, easy to make, and delivers restaurant-quality flavor without the hassle or mess of deep frying. Whether I’m meal-prepping for work or enjoying a cozy night at home, it’s one of those recipes that always hits the spot. I hope it becomes a go-to for you, too—because great food doesn’t have to take a ton of time or effort. Give it a try and let me know how you like it!

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Need another quick dinner with shrimp? Check out Delicious Shrimp with Peppers and Spinach from Day By Day In Our World.

Want to use your air fryer to make another dinner? Try this Juicy Air Fryer Turkey Breast Recipe.

Need a quick and easy snack or breakfast idea? Try the Best Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread.

Sarah Lee is an ER doctor and the creator of Laid Back Bites, where she shares simple, stress-free recipes for busy lives. Living on a farmette in Oklahoma with her husband, 4 horses and 4 cats, she combines her experience in a high-pressure career with a passion for easy, comforting meals. Her unique perspective brings a sense of balance and practicality to the kitchen, helping readers create delicious dishes without the stress.