Experience the ultimate crispy indulgence with our Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp, featuring succulent, buttermilk-soaked shrimp, perfectly coated in panko breadcrumbs, and generously tossed in a creamy, spicy-sweet Bang Bang sauce.

Crispy Bang Bang Shrimp: Your Go-To Air Fryer & Stovetop Recipe!

Get ready to elevate your weeknight meals or impress guests with this unbelievably delicious Bang Bang Shrimp recipe. Whether you prefer the health-conscious crisp of an air fryer or the classic golden crunch from stovetop frying, we’ve got you covered. This guide will walk you through both methods, ensuring perfect results every time. Prepare for a flavor explosion that will have everyone asking for more!

Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe

Bang Bang Shrimp has taken the culinary world by storm, and for good reason! This recipe delivers a fantastic balance of textures and flavors – tender shrimp, a super crispy coating, and a sauce that’s both sweet and spicy. Using an air fryer not only makes this dish incredibly easy to prepare but also significantly reduces the amount of oil, offering a healthier twist without sacrificing any of the irresistible crunch.

Beyond its delicious taste, this recipe is remarkably versatile. It’s perfect as an appetizer for parties, a light lunch, or even a main course when paired with rice or a fresh salad. The simplicity of the ingredients and the straightforward cooking process make it accessible for home cooks of all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned chefs. Plus, it’s a fun dish to customize to your preferred spice level, ensuring a perfect plate every time.

Essential Tips for Making the Best Bang Bang Shrimp

Achieving restaurant-quality Bang Bang Shrimp at home is easier than you think. Here are some pro tips to ensure your shrimp are succulent, your coating is perfectly crisp, and your sauce hits all the right notes:

• Selecting the Right Sweet Chili Sauce: The backbone of any great Bang Bang sauce is a high-quality sweet chili sauce. While many brands are available, we highly recommend trying the Blue Dragon brand for its excellent balance of sweetness, tanginess, and a subtle kick. This sauce is crucial for developing that authentic, irresistible flavor profile.
• Mastering the Sriracha Heat: Sriracha sauce, often dubbed Asian hot sauce, brings the perfect amount of heat to your Bang Bang creation. Its vibrant flavor complements the sweet chili sauce beautifully. The beauty of Sriracha is its customizability; you can add as little or as much as you like, tailoring the spice level to your personal preference or that of your guests. Start with a small amount and gradually add more until you reach your desired level of heat.
• Buttermilk Soak for Tenderness: Don’t skip the buttermilk soak! This step is a game-changer. Buttermilk not only tenderizes the shrimp, resulting in a more succulent bite but also helps the flour and panko breading adhere better, creating an extra crispy crust.
• Panko for Ultimate Crispiness: While regular breadcrumbs work, panko breadcrumbs are essential for achieving that superior, airy crispness. Their larger, flakier structure creates a much lighter and crunchier coating compared to traditional breadcrumbs.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Bang Bang Shrimp

Gathering your ingredients is the first step to culinary success. This recipe uses simple, accessible components that combine to create something truly extraordinary. (Full recipe details, including exact measurements, can be found in the recipe card at the bottom of this post.)

For the Crispy Shrimp:

• Buttermilk: Divided for soaking and for the breading station. Essential for tenderizing and adhesion.
• Fresh Shrimp: Peeled and deveined, ideally large or jumbo for the best texture. Freshness is key!
• All-Purpose Flour: Forms the initial layer for the breading.
• Panko Bread Crumbs: For that irresistible, light, and airy crisp coating.
• Black Pepper: To season the shrimp and add a touch of warmth.
• Non-stick Cooking Spray (for Air Fryer method): Ensures crispiness and prevents sticking without excess oil.
• Canola Oil (for Stovetop method): For deep frying the traditional way, providing a golden, crunchy exterior.

For the Creamy Bang Bang Sauce:

• Sriracha Sauce: The primary source of heat. Adjust to your desired spice level.
• Mayonnaise: Provides the creamy base and rich texture for the sauce. Use a good quality mayo for the best results.
• Sweet Chili Sauce: The sweet, tangy, and subtly spicy component that defines the Bang Bang flavor.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp

Making these crispy shrimp is a straightforward process, broken down into three main stages: preparing the shrimp, breading, and then cooking. Follow these instructions for perfect results.

1. Prepare the Shrimp:

Begin by ensuring your shrimp are perfectly prepped. If they aren’t already, peel and devein your fresh shrimp. Once cleaned, place the shrimp in a bowl and pour in half a cup of buttermilk. Allow the shrimp to soak in the buttermilk for at least 4 hours. This crucial step tenderizes the shrimp and helps the breading adhere beautifully, ensuring a succulent and crispy final product.

2. Set Up the Breading Station:

A well-organized breading station makes the process smooth and mess-free. You’ll need three separate bowls:

1. In the first bowl, combine the all-purpose flour with the black pepper. Mix well.
2. In the second bowl, pour the remaining half cup of buttermilk.
3. In the third and final bowl, place the panko bread crumbs.

With your station ready, take each buttermilk-soaked shrimp and first dip it thoroughly into the seasoned flour, shaking off any excess. Next, immerse the floured shrimp into the buttermilk, letting any extra drip off. Finally, coat the shrimp generously in the panko bread crumbs, pressing gently to ensure an even and complete coverage. Set the breaded shrimp aside on a plate or tray while you prepare your cooking method.

3. Cooking Method 1: Air Frying for a Healthier Crisp

The air fryer is a fantastic tool for achieving incredible crispiness with less oil. Here’s how to cook your Bang Bang Shrimp to perfection:

• Prepare the Air Fryer: Lightly spray the inside of your air fryer basket with non-stick cooking spray. This prevents sticking and promotes an even crisp.
• Arrange Shrimp: Place the breaded shrimp in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring not to overcrowd it. Cook in batches if necessary to allow proper air circulation. Lightly spray the tops of the shrimp with cooking spray as well.
• Air Fry: Set your air fryer to 390°F (199°C) and cook for 5 minutes.
• Flip and Finish: After 5 minutes, carefully flip each shrimp. Spray the other side with cooking spray and continue to cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until the shrimp are golden brown and cooked through.

Cooking Method 2: Stovetop Frying for Classic Indulgence

For those who love the traditional deep-fried taste and texture, stovetop frying is an excellent option:

• Heat the Oil: In a medium to large saucepan or deep skillet, add about 2 inches of canola oil. Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a kitchen thermometer to ensure accuracy, as consistent oil temperature is key to perfectly fried shrimp.
• Fry the Shrimp: Once the oil reaches the correct temperature, carefully add the breaded shrimp to the hot oil. Do not overcrowd the pan; fry in batches to maintain oil temperature and ensure even cooking. Cook for approximately 3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp are golden brown and cooked through.
• Drain Excess Oil: Use a slotted spoon or tongs to remove the cooked shrimp from the oil. Place them on a wire rack set over a paper towel-lined baking sheet to drain any excess oil. This helps maintain their crispness.

Finishing Touch: The Bang Bang Sauce

Once your shrimp are crispy and golden, it’s time to bring them to life with the iconic Bang Bang sauce:

• Prepare the Sauce: In a medium bowl, combine the sriracha sauce, mayonnaise, and sweet chili sauce. Whisk them together until the sauce is smooth, creamy, and well-blended. Taste and adjust the sriracha if you desire more heat.
• Toss and Serve: Gently add the cooked shrimp to the bowl with the Bang Bang sauce. Toss until all the shrimp are evenly coated in the delicious, creamy mixture.
• Garnish and Enjoy: Transfer the sauced shrimp to a serving dish. For an extra touch of freshness and color, garnish with chopped fresh cilantro (optional). Serve immediately and prepare for rave reviews!

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Bang Bang Shrimp is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of dishes. Here are some ideas to make your meal complete:

• Rice: A simple bed of steamed white or brown rice is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce.
• Lettuce Wraps: Serve the shrimp in crisp lettuce cups (like butter lettuce or romaine) for a refreshing, low-carb option.
• Tacos: Turn them into Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos with some shredded cabbage, a squeeze of lime, and extra sauce.
• Salad: Toss the shrimp into a vibrant green salad with a light vinaigrette for a satisfying and healthy meal.
• Noodles: Serve alongside a light noodle dish, such as cold sesame noodles or stir-fried rice noodles.
• Vegetables: Steamed or roasted broccoli, asparagus, or bell peppers make excellent side dishes.

Tips for Storage and Reheating

While Bang Bang Shrimp is best enjoyed fresh, you can store leftovers and reheat them if necessary:

• Storage: Store any leftover shrimp (preferably unsauced, with sauce stored separately) in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
• Reheating: To maintain crispness, avoid the microwave. Reheat shrimp in an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes, or in an oven at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes, until warmed through and re-crisped. If the sauce was stored separately, toss the reheated shrimp with fresh sauce just before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are answers to some common questions you might have about making Bang Bang Shrimp:

• Can I use frozen shrimp? Yes, absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them very dry before proceeding with the buttermilk soak and breading. Excess moisture can prevent the breading from becoming crispy.
• What if I don’t have buttermilk? You can make your own! For 1 cup of buttermilk, add 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice to a measuring cup, then fill the rest with regular milk (dairy or non-dairy) to the 1-cup line. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it slightly curdles.
• Can I make this gluten-free? Yes, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend and gluten-free panko breadcrumbs. Ensure your sweet chili sauce and sriracha are also gluten-free.
• How can I make it spicier or milder? Adjust the amount of sriracha in the sauce. For extra heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes. For a milder version, reduce the sriracha or omit it entirely and add a tiny dash of paprika for color.
• Can I prepare the shrimp ahead of time? You can complete the buttermilk soak and breading step a few hours in advance, storing the breaded shrimp in a single layer on a parchment-lined tray in the refrigerator. However, for the crispiest results, it’s best to cook the shrimp right before serving. The sauce can be made a day or two ahead and stored in the fridge.

Craving More Delicious Recipes?

If you loved this Bang Bang Shrimp, you’re in for a treat! Explore more delightful and easy-to-make recipes that will become new family favorites:

• Shrimp Tacos: Fresh, vibrant, and bursting with flavor, these tacos are perfect for a fun weeknight dinner.
• Air Fryer Garlic Butter Shrimp: A simple yet elegant dish, featuring succulent shrimp drenched in rich garlic butter, all made effortlessly in your air fryer.
• Air Fryer General Tso’s Chicken: Recreate your favorite takeout classic at home with this healthier, crispy air-fried version.
• Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Shrimp: The ultimate appetizer – juicy shrimp wrapped in savory bacon and air-fried to crispy perfection.
• Air Fryer Orange Chicken: Sweet, tangy, and wonderfully crispy chicken, made lighter in the air fryer.
• Air Fryer Pork Chops: Achieve tender and juicy pork chops with a beautiful sear, thanks to the magic of the air fryer.
• The Best Air Fryer Salmon: Flaky, perfectly cooked salmon that’s quick, healthy, and incredibly flavorful.
• Buttery Creole Shrimp: A rich and spicy classic, these shrimp are simmered in a decadent buttery Creole sauce.
• Southern Fried Shrimp: Crispy, golden, and seasoned to perfection – a true taste of Southern comfort.

Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp

Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp features succulent, buttermilk-soaked shrimp, coated in crispy panko breadcrumbs, and tossed in a deliciously creamy, sweet, and spicy Bang Bang sauce.

Average rating: 5 stars from 1 vote

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Prep Time:
15 minutes

Cook Time:
10 minutes

Buttermilk soak time:
4 hours

Total Time:
4 hours 25 minutes

Servings:
4

Author:
Brandie Skibinski

Ingredients

• 1 cup buttermilk (divided use)
• 1 pound fresh shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups panko bread crumbs
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon sriracha sauce
• ½ cup mayo
• ½ cup sweet chili sauce

Instructions

1. Let shrimp soak in half a cup of buttermilk for at least 4 hours before cooking.
2. Create a station for breading the shrimp: Put flour and pepper in one bowl, half a cup of buttermilk in another, and panko bread crumbs in the last bowl.
3. Dip shrimp in flour, then in buttermilk, and finally in panko bread crumbs until evenly coated.
4. Spray air fryer basket with non-stick cooking spray. Place shrimp in basket in a single layer and spray shrimp with cooking spray.
5. Set air fryer to 390°F (199°C) for 5 minutes. Flip the shrimp, spray with cooking spray again, and cook for 5 more minutes until golden and crispy.
6. Create Bang Bang sauce by mixing sriracha, mayo, and sweet chili sauce until smooth. Gently toss cooked shrimp in the sauce.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro (optional) and serve immediately. Enjoy!

Notes

TO FRY ON THE STOVETOP:

Add 2” of canola oil to a sauce pan and heat to 350°F (175°C). Once oil reaches temperature, carefully add shrimp (in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding) and cook for 3 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Drain on a wire rack set over paper towels.

Course:
Main Course, Appetizer

Cuisine:
American, Asian Fusion

Nutrition Facts (Estimated)

Calories: 440kcal | Carbohydrates: 65g | Protein: 33g | Fat: 27g | Sodium: 1674mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 21g

Nutritional Disclaimer

“The Country Cook” is not a registered dietician or nutritionist. All nutritional information provided is an estimate based on ingredients used and typical serving sizes. If precise calorie counts and other nutritional values are important for your dietary needs, we recommend utilizing a trusted online nutritional calculator with the specific brands and quantities of ingredients you use. Actual values can vary significantly.

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