Introduction
Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are a flavorful, crispy treat that elevates any taco night with their unique combination of savory shrimp, creamy sauce, and fresh toppings. These tacos deliver the satisfying crunch of perfectly cooked shrimp, without the extra oil of traditional frying, making them a healthier alternative that doesn’t sacrifice flavor. The zesty, spicy Bang Bang sauce adds a delicious kick, making every bite an exciting burst of flavor. Wrapped in soft tortillas, these tacos offer a delicious balance of textures, from the crispy shrimp to the creamy sauce and crunchy veggies.
The first time I made Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos, I was amazed at how simple and quick the process was. The shrimp cooked up perfectly in the air fryer, and the sauce came together in minutes. The kitchen was filled with the savory, spicy aroma of the shrimp, and I couldn’t wait to taste the tacos. Once everything was assembled, I took my first bite and was instantly hooked by the crunchy shrimp and the creamy, spicy sauce that complemented each other perfectly.
What I love most about these tacos is how customizable they are. You can adjust the heat of the sauce to your liking, add extra toppings like avocado or cilantro, or even serve them in lettuce wraps for a low-carb option. Whether you’re making them for a weeknight dinner or a fun taco night with family, these Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos will quickly become a go-to recipe that everyone will rave about.
Perfect for:
- Taco night
- Quick dinners
- Seafood lovers
- Weeknight meals
- Family gatherings
Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos Recipe
Here’s why Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos will quickly become one of your favorite recipes:
- Crispy Shrimp without the Guilt: The air fryer crisps the shrimp perfectly without the need for excess oil, making this a healthier version of the beloved Bang Bang shrimp.
- Bold and Flavorful Sauce: The Bang Bang sauce is a creamy, tangy, and spicy mixture that brings the shrimp to life with every bite.
- Quick and Easy: The air fryer does most of the work, making these tacos easy to prepare in just 30 minutes or less.
- Customizable: You can adjust the level of spice in the sauce to suit your taste, making it perfect for all spice tolerance levels.
- Great for Meal Prep: The shrimp and sauce can be prepared ahead of time, making it perfect for meal prepping during busy weeks.
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories per serving: Approximately 350-400 calories
- Key Nutrients: Protein: 25g, Carbs: 25g, Fat: 20g
Ingredients
To make Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos, gather these ingredients:
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Cooking spray (for air frying)
Bang Bang Sauce:
- ⅓ cup mayonnaise
- 3 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey
For the Tacos:
- 8 small flour tortillas
- 1 cup shredded lettuce or cabbage
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Lime wedges, for serving
Ingredient Highlights
- Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs add a light and crispy coating to the shrimp, making them perfectly crunchy when air fried.
- Sweet Chili Sauce: The sweet chili sauce in the Bang Bang sauce gives a sweet yet tangy flavor that balances out the heat from the sriracha.
- Sriracha Sauce: Adds a spicy kick to the sauce. You can adjust the amount of sriracha to suit your spice preference.
- Shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly and absorb flavors beautifully, making them the perfect choice for a quick and tasty taco filling.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps to make Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos:
Prepare the Shrimp:
- Coat the Shrimp: In a shallow bowl, combine the flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, beat the egg. In a third bowl, place the panko breadcrumbs. Dip each shrimp first into the flour mixture, then the egg, and finally coat with the panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure they stick.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
- Air Fry the Shrimp: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Arrange the breaded shrimp in a single layer in the basket, ensuring they don’t overlap. Spray the shrimp with a light coat of cooking spray and air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce:
- Mix the Sauce Ingredients: While the shrimp are cooking, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha sauce, rice vinegar, and honey in a small bowl. Adjust the amount of sriracha depending on your desired spice level.
Assemble the Tacos:
- Warm the Tortillas: Heat the flour tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat for 30 seconds on each side until warm and soft.
- Fill the Tacos: Spread a layer of shredded lettuce or cabbage on each tortilla. Top with 3-4 crispy shrimp per taco.
- Drizzle with Sauce: Generously drizzle the Bang Bang sauce over the shrimp.
- Garnish: Garnish with fresh cilantro and squeeze a lime wedge over the tacos before serving.
How to Serve Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos
Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are best served with these ideas:
- On a Taco Bar: Set up a taco bar with tortillas, shrimp, sauce, and toppings like shredded lettuce, avocado, and salsa for a fun, customizable meal.
- With a Side of Rice: Serve these tacos alongside a refreshing side of cilantro-lime rice or a zesty Mexican rice for a complete meal.
- With Chips and Guacamole: Serve with tortilla chips and a side of fresh guacamole for a perfect appetizer combo.
- For Game Day: These tacos are perfect for game day or casual gatherings. Serve them alongside some cold drinks and your favorite dipping sauces.
- For Meal Prep: Prepare the shrimp and sauce in advance and assemble the tacos when you’re ready to serve.
Additional Tips for Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos
Here are some tips to make your Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos even better:
- Don’t Overcrowd the Air Fryer: Cook the shrimp in batches if necessary. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and prevent the shrimp from getting crispy.
- Adjust the Spice: If you prefer a milder sauce, reduce the sriracha or skip it altogether. For extra heat, increase the sriracha or add some chili flakes.
- Add Fresh Veggies: Try adding sliced avocado, diced tomatoes, or pickled onions to the tacos for added freshness and texture.
- Use Corn Tortillas: For a gluten-free option, swap the flour tortillas for corn tortillas.
- Double the Sauce: If you love the Bang Bang sauce, consider doubling the recipe to have extra for dipping or drizzling over other dishes.
Recipe Variations for Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos
Here are 10 variations you can try for Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos:
- Bang Bang Fish Tacos: Swap the shrimp for your favorite white fish fillets, such as tilapia or cod, for a lighter variation.
- Crispy Tofu Tacos: For a vegetarian version, coat tofu cubes in breadcrumbs and air fry them for a crispy texture.
- Spicy Pineapple Salsa Tacos: Top your tacos with a spicy pineapple salsa for a sweet and spicy flavor combo.
- Bang Bang Chicken Tacos: Use breaded and air-fried chicken tenders instead of shrimp for a different protein option.
- Bang Bang Lobster Tacos: Substitute shrimp with lobster meat for an indulgent, seafood-rich taco.
- Asian-Inspired Tacos: Add thinly sliced cucumber, shredded carrots, and a drizzle of soy sauce for an Asian fusion twist.
- Avocado Bang Bang Tacos: For a creamy, vegetarian option, add avocado slices and drizzle with Bang Bang sauce.
- Bang Bang Shrimp Bowls: Serve the shrimp, sauce, and toppings over a bed of rice for a deconstructed taco bowl.
- Bang Bang Shrimp Wraps: Use large lettuce leaves instead of tortillas for a low-carb alternative.
- Bang Bang Shrimp Quesadillas: Add the shrimp and sauce to a quesadilla for a crispy, cheesy twist.
Freezing and Storage
- Freezing: You can freeze the breaded shrimp before cooking. Place the coated shrimp on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze for 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag for storage. When ready to cook, air fry directly from frozen, adding 2-3 extra minutes to the cooking time.
- Storage: Store leftover cooked shrimp and sauce separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat the shrimp in the air fryer to retain their crispy texture.
Special Equipment for Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos
Here are some special equipment items that can help with making Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos:
- Air Fryer: The star of the show, perfect for making crispy shrimp without the need for deep frying.
- Shallow Bowls for Breading: Use shallow bowls to easily coat the shrimp with flour, egg, and panko.
- Small Whisk or Fork: A whisk or fork is helpful for mixing the Bang Bang sauce quickly and evenly.
- Tongs: Tongs are great for flipping the shrimp in the air fryer and handling them without getting your hands messy.
- Skillet for Heating Tortillas: A small skillet or frying pan helps heat the tortillas quickly and evenly.
FAQ Section for Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos
- Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, but make sure to thaw and pat them dry before breading them. - Can I make the Bang Bang sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! The sauce can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to a week. - Can I use a different sauce for these tacos?
Yes, you can use a variety of sauces such as chipotle mayo or ranch dressing for a different flavor. - How do I make this recipe spicier?
Increase the amount of sriracha in the sauce, or add chili flakes for an extra kick. - Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply swap the panko breadcrumbs and flour for gluten-free alternatives, and use corn tortillas.
Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos
Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos combine crispy, perfectly cooked shrimp with a zesty and creamy Bang Bang sauce, all wrapped in soft tortillas for a delicious and satisfying meal. This recipe brings together the savory flavors of shrimp with the crunch of the air fryer, making it a healthier and quicker option compared to traditional frying methods. These tacos are perfect for a weeknight dinner, a weekend get-together, or even a fun taco night with family and friends. With the added crunch and the bold sauce, each bite delivers a delightful contrast in texture and flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: 30 minutes meals
Ingredients
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Cooking spray (for air frying)
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- ⅓ cup mayonnaise
- 3 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey
For the Tacos:
- 8 small flour tortillas
- 1 cup shredded lettuce or cabbage
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions
Prepare the Shrimp:
- Coat the Shrimp: In a shallow bowl, combine the flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, beat the egg. In a third bowl, place the panko breadcrumbs. Dip each shrimp first into the flour mixture, then the egg, and finally coat with the panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure they stick.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
- Air Fry the Shrimp: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Arrange the breaded shrimp in a single layer in the basket, ensuring they don’t overlap. Spray the shrimp with a light coat of cooking spray and air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce:
- Mix the Sauce Ingredients: While the shrimp are cooking, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha sauce, rice vinegar, and honey in a small bowl. Adjust the amount of sriracha depending on your desired spice level.
Assemble the Tacos:
- Warm the Tortillas: Heat the flour tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat for 30 seconds on each side until warm and soft.
- Fill the Tacos: Spread a layer of shredded lettuce or cabbage on each tortilla. Top with 3-4 crispy shrimp per taco.
- Drizzle with Sauce: Generously drizzle the Bang Bang sauce over the shrimp.
- Garnish: Garnish with fresh cilantro and squeeze a lime wedge over the tacos before serving.
Equipment
Ninja Air Fryer Pro 4-in-1 with 5 QT Capacity
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Buy Now →Nutrition
- Calories: 350-400 kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Protein: 25g
Conclusion
Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are a delicious and healthier way to enjoy this popular seafood dish. The crispy shrimp, paired with the creamy and spicy Bang Bang sauce, creates a perfect balance of textures and flavors. This recipe is quick, easy, and perfect for a fun taco night or a special dinner with family and friends. With the help of the air fryer, you can achieve crispy shrimp without all the oil, making this a lighter yet equally satisfying meal. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking for a tasty, simple dish, these tacos will hit the spot every time.
I can’t wait to see how your tacos turn out! Be sure to share your creation by tagging me on Instagram—I’d love to see your twist on this dish. Don’t forget to leave a comment and let me know how you made it your own. Happy cooking!