If you’ve ever found yourself yearning for the crunch of a restaurant dish without the guilt, let me introduce you to my latest culinary discovery: Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos. Picture this: golden-brown, crispy shrimp drizzled in a creamy, spicy sauce — all while keeping it quick and healthy at home. I stumbled upon this recipe one weeknight when the usual fast food options just wouldn’t do. With the air fryer as my trusty sidekick, I realized I could elevate Taco Tuesday into a delightful, restaurant-quality meal in under 30 minutes.
These tacos aren’t just delicious; they’re also versatile and easily adaptable for those looking for gluten-free or dairy-free options. Perfect for a cozy night in or an impressive dish to serve at a gathering, they promise to delight your taste buds and redefine dinner at home. Join me on this flavor-packed adventure that transforms simple ingredients into a tantalizing taco experience!
Why Love Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos?
Crispy Goodness: Enjoy that beloved crunch without the guilt, thanks to the air fryer.
Flavor Explosion: Our creamy Bang Bang sauce blends sweet and spicy, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor.
Quick Prep: Ready in under 30 minutes, making them perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous taco cravings!
Versatile Options: Easily swap shrimp for chicken or tofu, and adjust for gluten-free by choosing alternative breadcrumbs and tortillas.
Crowd-Pleasing Dish: Impress family and friends with a dish that looks gourmet but is simple to make at home. Dive into a delightful taco experience!
Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos Ingredients
For the Shrimp
• Large Raw Shrimp – Choose peeled, deveined shrimp for convenience and juicy bites.
• Eggs – These help bind the breadcrumbs to create a crispy coating.
• Panko Breadcrumbs – Opt for Japanese-style breadcrumbs for the best crunch.
• Tapioca Flour – Creates a light and crispy coating; arrowroot starch can work as a substitute.
• Seasonings (Paprika, Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Salt, Pepper) – Customize the flavor of the shrimp to your liking.
• Cooking Spray – Ensures the shrimp crisp up without excess oil.
For the Bang Bang Sauce
• Mayonnaise – Forms the creamy base of the bang bang sauce.
• Thai Sweet Chili Sauce – Adds sweetness and a touch of heat; Heinz Thai Inspired Sweet Chili Sauce makes a good alternative.
• Sriracha – Spice it up according to your heat preference—perfect for the Bang Bang sauce!
For the Tacos
• Coleslaw Mix – Provides a refreshing crunch to balance the richness of the shrimp.
• Chopped Cilantro & Green Onion – Lift the flavor of the tacos with fresh, vibrant notes.
• Flour Tortillas – These hold everything together; for gluten-free, swap to gluten-free tortillas.
How to Make Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos
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Prepare the Shrimp: Pat the large raw shrimp dry with a paper towel. This step helps ensure a crispy coating! Set up your dredging station with three bowls: one for tapioca flour mixed with seasonings, one for breadcrumbs, and one for whisked eggs and water.
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Dredge the Shrimp: Coat each shrimp by first dipping it into the tapioca flour, then into the egg mixture, and finally covering it in breadcrumbs. Remember to use one hand for the wet ingredients to keep things tidy!
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Air Fry the Shrimp: Arrange the breaded shrimp in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Lightly spray them with cooking oil to help achieve that gorgeous golden brown. Cook at 390°F for 7 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispiness.
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Mix the Bang Bang Sauce: While the shrimp cooks, whisk together the mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, and Sriracha in a medium bowl until smooth. This will be the delicious drizzle that brings everything together.
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Prepare the Slaw: In another bowl, mix the coleslaw ingredients, including chopped cilantro and green onion. This fresh topping will add crunch and brightness to your tacos.
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Assemble Tacos: Warm your tortillas gently. To build the tacos, layer them with the coleslaw, crispy shrimp, the Bang Bang sauce, and a sprinkle of extra green onion if desired. Indulge in this tasty creation!
Optional: Garnish tacos with avocado slices or a squeeze of lime for a zesty finish.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Storage Tips for Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos
Fridge: Store assembled tacos in an airtight container without the sauce for up to 2 days to maintain crispness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the breaded (unfried) shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a zip-top bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To reheat the fried shrimp, place them in the air fryer at 350°F for about 3-4 minutes until crispy again. Reassemble tacos fresh for the best taste!
Bang Bang Sauce: Keep any leftover sauce separately in the fridge for up to a week to preserve flavor and texture. Enjoy those delightful Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos again soon!
Variations & Substitutions for Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos
Feel free to mix and match these ideas to create your perfect taco experience!
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Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs and tortillas to keep it light and accommodating for gluten sensitivities. Enjoy the same crunch without worry!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute the mayonnaise with a dairy-free alternative or use avocado for creaminess without dairy. This keeps the flavor intact while making it more inclusive.
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Protein Swap: Replace shrimp with chicken, tofu, or tempeh for a delightful twist, catering to different dietary preferences and flavor profiles.
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Rice Bowl Option: Serve the Bang Bang shrimp over a bed of rice and veggies instead of in tortillas for a satisfying, gluten-free meal. It’s a fabulous way to savor those bold flavors!
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Extra Crunch: Top your tacos with crushed tortilla chips for added texture. The crunchiness contrast complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
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Heat Levels: Modify the spice by increasing or decreasing the amount of Sriracha in the sauce. For an extra kick, drizzle a bit more on top before serving!
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Veggie Boost: Add sliced avocados or grilled corn to your coleslaw mix for extra flavor and nutrition. This enhances the freshness while adding a delicious twist.
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Zesty Flair: Incorporate lime juice into the Bang Bang sauce for a bright, zesty finish. It elevates the flavor and adds a refreshing pop you’re sure to love!
Make Ahead Options
These Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during the week! You can prep the shrimp by breading them and storing them in an airtight container for up to 24 hours in the refrigerator—this ensures they remain crispy. Additionally, mix the Bang Bang sauce ahead of time and refrigerate it separately to maintain its creamy texture. The coleslaw can also be prepped in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply air fry the shrimp as directed, assemble your tacos with fresh tortillas, slaw, and sauce, and enjoy delicious, homemade tacos in no time!
What to Serve with Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos?
Elevate your meal with delightful sides that perfectly complement the bold flavors of your tacos.
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Cilantro Lime Rice: This fragrant side adds a zesty freshness that rounds out the meal and contrasts beautifully with the rich Bang Bang sauce.
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Grilled Corn Salad: Sweet, smoky corn paired with lime and jalapeño brings a delightful crunch, balancing the shrimp’s savory crispiness.
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Avocado Feta Salad: Creamy avocado and tangy feta create a fresh, light contrast that pairs wonderfully with the spicy shrimp tacos.
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Sweet Potato Fries: A crispy, slightly sweet alternative, these fries provide a delightful texture and contrast with the savory shrimp.
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Margaritas: A refreshing, zesty drink that perfectly complements the flavors of the tacos, making every bite even more enjoyable.
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Churros with Chocolate Sauce: For a sweet ending, these crispy, sugary treats bring a touch of indulgence that will delight everyone at the table!
Adding these options can turn Taco Tuesday into an unforgettable feast!
Tips for the Best Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos
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Dredging Technique: Use one hand for wet ingredients and another for dry to keep your fingers mess-free while coating the shrimp.
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Crispiness Guarantee: Make sure to spray the breaded shrimp lightly with cooking oil before air frying to achieve that perfect crunchy texture.
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Flavor Adjustments: Feel free to customize seasonings according to your taste; a little extra garlic powder can go a long way in the shrimp’s flavor!
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Meal Prep Smart: If you’re making these tacos ahead of time, store the Bang Bang sauce separately to keep the shrimp and slaw crispy until serving.
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Gluten-Free Options: Swap panko breadcrumbs and tortillas for gluten-free versions to enjoy these tacos without worry. Enjoy the bold flavors of Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos!
Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos Recipe FAQs
What kind of shrimp should I use for this recipe?
I recommend using large raw, peeled, and deveined shrimp for a juicy bite and easy preparation. Avoid shrimp with dark spots or a strong fishy odor, as these can indicate they are not fresh.
How do I store leftover Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos?
Store assembled tacos in an airtight container in the refrigerator without any sauce for up to 2 days to maintain crispness. If you include sauce, the tortillas may become soggy too quickly.
Can I freeze the shrimp for later use?
Absolutely! To freeze, place the breaded (unfried) shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze for about 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag and store for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, cook them directly from the freezer in the air fryer!
How do I reheat the shrimp without losing the crispiness?
To reheat, simply place the previously cooked shrimp in the air fryer at 350°F for about 3-4 minutes until they are crispy again. Avoid microwaving, as that can make them soggy. Assemble tacos fresh after reheating for the best taste!
Are there gluten-free options for this recipe?
Yes! You can easily make this recipe gluten-free by substituting regular panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free panko and using gluten-free tortillas. This way, everyone can enjoy the deliciousness of Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos!
Can I use other proteins besides shrimp?
The more, the merrier! Feel free to swap shrimp for chicken or tofu, ensuring the same delicious Bang Bang flavor. Simply adjust cooking times accordingly—chicken may take slightly longer, while tofu might need less. Enjoy experimenting!
Crispy Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos You’ll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Pat the large raw shrimp dry with a paper towel. Set up your dredging station with three bowls: one for tapioca flour mixed with seasonings, one for breadcrumbs, and one for whisked eggs and water.
- Coat each shrimp by first dipping it into the tapioca flour, then into the egg mixture, and finally covering it in breadcrumbs.
- Arrange the breaded shrimp in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Lightly spray them with cooking oil. Cook at 390°F for 7 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- While the shrimp cooks, whisk together the mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, and Sriracha in a medium bowl until smooth.
- In another bowl, mix the coleslaw ingredients, including chopped cilantro and green onion.
- Warm your tortillas gently. To build the tacos, layer them with the coleslaw, crispy shrimp, the Bang Bang sauce, and extra green onion if desired.