Name: Crispy Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Under 300 Calories
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 32 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Jumbo Shrimp (peeled and deveined); 1 cup Flour or Cornstarch (for coating); 1 teaspoon Salt; 1 teaspoon Black Pepper; 1 large Egg; Cooking Spray Olive Oil (for air frying); 1/2 cup Mayo (can use low-fat); 1/4 cup Sweet Thai Chili Sauce; 1-2 tablespoons Sriracha (adjust for spice preference)

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As I scrolled through my favorite foodie posts, I stumbled upon a dish that brought back memories of zesty dinner parties: Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp. This quick and scrumptious recipe not only satisfies my craving for a creamy, spicy kick but also transforms a beloved restaurant appetizer into a guilt-free treasure. With under 300 calories per serving, it’s a wonderful way to whip up something crispy and delicious in just 20 minutes—perfect for those busy weeknights when time is tight. Plus, it’s a welcome break from unhealthy takeout options! Are you ready to dive into this irresistible shrimp sensation?

Why is this recipe a must-try?

Quick Preparation: In just 20 minutes, you can enjoy a delicious dish that requires minimal effort. Perfect for busy weeknights!

Guilt-Free Indulgence: At under 300 calories per serving, satisfy your cravings without the unwanted calories.

Flavor Explosion: The blend of sweet and spicy in the bang bang sauce elevates the shrimp, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Versatile: Feel free to experiment! Swap shrimp for chicken or tofu for a different taste, or add a twist with lime for extra zest.

Air-Fryer Convenience: Enjoy crispy textures without the fuss of deep frying, making this a healthier option. Plus, cleanup is a breeze!

Once you try these crispy delights, you’ll want to pair them with sides from recipes like our Grilled Shrimp Bowl or serve them alongside a refreshing salad.

Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Ingredients

For the Shrimp
• Jumbo Shrimp – A great source of lean protein, peeled and deveined for easy prep.
• Flour or Cornstarch – Helps achieve a crispy texture; cornstarch gives a lighter crunch.
• Salt & Pepper – Essential for enhancing the natural flavors of the shrimp.
• Egg – Binds the coating effectively for an even and tasty crust.
• Olive Oil Cooking Spray – Keeps the shrimp moist while aiding in achieving that perfect crisp.

For the Bang Bang Sauce
• Mayo – The creamy base that makes the sauce rich; opt for low-fat mayo for a lighter touch.
• Sweet Thai Chili Sauce – Infuses the dish with sweetness and a tangy flavor, characteristic of the bang bang experience.
• Sriracha – Adds an extra kick of heat; adjust based on your spice preference for this Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp.

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just craving something delightful, these ingredients come together in a flash to create a dish that’s sure to please!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
Start by patting the jumbo shrimp dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps the coating stick better. In a mixing bowl, combine flour (or cornstarch) with salt and pepper for seasoning. In a separate bowl, beat one egg until well combined. This step lays the foundation for the crispy Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp.

Step 2: Coat the Shrimp
Take each shrimp and dip it first into the beaten egg, ensuring it is fully coated. Next, transfer the shrimp to the seasoned flour mixture and coat thoroughly, pressing gently to adhere the coating. Repeat this process for all shrimp, setting them aside; the coating will create a delightful crunch when air-fried!

Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer
Before cooking, preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. This ensures that the Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp cooks evenly and achieves that coveted golden-brown hue. Meanwhile, prepare the air fryer basket by spraying it generously with cooking spray to prevent sticking and enhance crispiness.

Step 4: Air Fry the Shrimp
Once preheated, carefully place the coated shrimp in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Be sure not to overcrowd the shrimp; you may need to work in batches. Lightly spray the tops of the shrimp with olive oil cooking spray. Air fry the shrimp for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden and cooked through.

Step 5: Make the Bang Bang Sauce
While the shrimp are air frying, prepare the bang bang sauce. In a mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet Thai chili sauce, and Sriracha until smooth. Adjust the Sriracha based on your heat preference, ensuring the sauce is creamy with a nice balance of sweetness and spice that perfectly complements the crispy shrimp.

Step 6: Combine and Serve
Once the shrimp are done cooking, carefully remove them from the air fryer and transfer them to a large bowl. Pour the bang bang sauce over the shrimp, tossing gently to ensure they are evenly coated. For a final touch, garnish with sesame seeds or freshly chopped greens if desired. Serve your Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp warm, and enjoy!

Make Ahead Options

These Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can coat the shrimp in flour and egg up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to meld while preventing the coating from becoming soggy. Simply store the coated shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, preheat your air fryer and air fry the shrimp for 10-12 minutes until golden and crispy. The bang bang sauce can also be prepared ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days—just give it a good stir before tossing it with the shrimp. This strategy not only saves time but ensures that each bite remains just as delicious as if made fresh!

What to Serve with Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp

Pair your crispy creations with delightful sides that elevate the meal beyond just shrimp.

Creamy Coleslaw: The crunchy, tangy slaw adds a refreshing contrast to the spicy, creamy shrimp while cooling your palate.
Coconut Rice: This subtly sweetened rice brings a tropical flair that wonderfully balances the shrimp’s heat.
Garden Salad: A fresh salad with vibrant greens and a light vinaigrette adds a dose of healthiness and crisp texture.
Grilled Asparagus: The smoky char from grilled asparagus complements the shrimp beautifully, adding an earthy flavor and appealing alignment of textures.
Garlic Bread: Soft, buttery garlic bread is perfect for sopping up the bang bang sauce, making every bite an indulgent delight.
Mango Salsa: The bright, sweet elements of mango salsa contrast nicely with the shrimp’s spice, giving a burst of flavor in every bite.
Chilled White Wine: A glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc not only refreshes but also pairs well, enhancing the shrimp’s sweet and spicy notes.
Lemon Sorbet: For dessert, serve a light lemon sorbet to cleanse the palate, providing a refreshing finish to a delicious meal.

Expert Tips for Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp

• Pat Dry First: Make sure your shrimp are patted dry thoroughly; this helps the coating stick and achieve that perfect crispness.

• Egg Coating: Don’t skip the egg dip! It’s vital for binding the flour or cornstarch, creating a delicious crust on your Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp.

• Batch Cooking: Avoid overcrowding! Air fry in batches to ensure even cooking and ultimate crispiness for every piece.

• Adjust Spice Levels: Tailor the heat by adjusting the Sriracha in the sauce; start small if you’re unsure, you can always add more!

• Serve Immediately: For the best texture, serve your shrimp right after tossing them in sauce; they taste best when still warm and crispy!

Storage Tips for Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp

Fridge: Store leftover Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure they are cooled before sealing to avoid condensation and sogginess.

Freezer: If you want to store them longer, freeze the shrimp in a single layer on a baking tray before transferring to a freezer-safe bag. They can be kept frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating: For the best results, reheat air-fried shrimp in the air fryer at 375°F for about 5-7 minutes. This will help restore their crispy texture, making them just as delightful as the first serve!

Tip: Avoid microwaving, as it can make the shrimp chewy instead of crispy.

Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Variations

Feel free to make this recipe your own—there’s so much room for creativity and flavor exploration!

Chicken Replacement: Swap out jumbo shrimp for chicken pieces for a hearty twist. Use the same batter and sauce for a flavorful touch.
Tofu Delight: For a vegetarian option, swap shrimp with firm tofu. Simply press the tofu to remove excess moisture, then coat and cook just as you would with shrimp.
Citrus Zing: Add a splash of lime juice or zest into the bang bang sauce for a refreshing, zesty flavor boost that complements the creaminess beautifully.
Herb Infusion: Mix finely chopped fresh herbs such as cilantro or parsley into the sauce. This adds a fragrant aroma and enhances the overall flavor profile.
Spicy Kick-Up: Want it even spicier? Pour in a couple more dashes of Sriracha or add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for an extra heat level.
Asian Twist: Incorporate a bit of sesame oil into your sauce for a richer, nutty flavor. This lovely addition will elevate your Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp to another level of deliciousness.
Coconut Cream Variation: Replace mayo with coconut cream to create a tropical twist on the bang bang sauce—perfectly creamy and indulgent!
Crunchy Cornflake Coating: For an added texture, substitute the flour or cornstarch with crushed cornflakes. This twist will give your shrimp an ultra-crispy finish that’s hard to resist.

If you fell in love with this dish, you might also enjoy the zesty flavors in our Spicy Shrimp and Avocado Rice Bowl or venture into a creamy dream with the Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna. Dive into the variations, and let your culinary creativity shine!

Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe FAQs

What type of shrimp should I use for Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp?
Absolutely! You want to use jumbo shrimp, which should be peeled and deveined for convenience. Look for shrimp that are firm and smell fresh; avoid any that have dark spots or an overly fishy odor as they might not be fresh.

How should I store leftovers of Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp?
Very importantly! Store any leftover Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s best to let them cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture from making them soggy. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheating them in the air fryer keeps them crisp!

Can I freeze Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp?
You can! For freezing, first lay the cooked shrimp in a single layer on a baking tray to freeze individually until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag and store for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, air fry at 375°F for about 8-10 minutes directly from the freezer for the best texture!

What can I do if my shrimp coating is falling off during cooking?
A common troubleshooting tip is to make sure that your shrimp are patted dry before coating to help the flour adhere better. Additionally, be sure to coat the shrimp thoroughly with egg first and don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. This allows for even cooking and helps the coating stay crisp and intact!

Is there a low-calorie alternative for the mayo in the bang bang sauce?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a lighter version, substituting the mayo with Greek yogurt is a fantastic option that still keeps the sauce creamy while reducing calories. It adds a lovely tang that complements the spices beautifully.

Are there any allergy considerations for making Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp?
Yes, definitely be mindful! If anyone has shellfish allergies, you can substitute shrimp with chicken or tofu as an alternative protein. Additionally, check the labels of sauces like sweet Thai chili and Sriracha for any gluten or allergens, and opt for brands that accommodate dietary restrictions if necessary.