Name: Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Fusion
Ingredients: 1 lb shrimp (peeled and deveined); 1/2 cup buttermilk; 1/4 cup cornstarch; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup panko breadcrumbs; 1 tsp paprika; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 2 eggs, beaten; Cooking spray or oil Bang Bang Sauce: 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce; 1 tbsp sriracha; 1 tbsp honey; 1 tbsp lime juice; 8 small tortillas (flour or corn); 1 cup shredded lettuce or cabbage; 1/2 cup diced tomatoes; 1 avocado, sliced (optional); Cilantro for garnish (optional); Lime wedges for serving

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re a fan of crispy, flavorful shrimp with a spicy kick, these Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos will become your new favorite meal. The shrimp are coated in a crunchy panko crust, cooked to perfection in the air fryer, and tossed in a creamy, sweet, and spicy Bang Bang sauce. Served in warm tortillas with fresh toppings, these tacos are an irresistible blend of texture and flavor. Plus, using the air fryer means less oil and a healthier take on this delicious dish.

Ingredients

Shrimp (peeled and deveined)
Buttermilk
Cornstarch
Panko breadcrumbs
Paprika
Garlic powder
Salt
Black pepper
Eggs
Flour
Cooking spray or oil
Mayonnaise
Sweet chili sauce
Sriracha
Honey
Lime juice
Small tortillas (flour or corn)
Shredded lettuce or cabbage
Diced tomatoes
Avocado (optional)
Cilantro (optional)

Directions

1. Prepare the Shrimp

Pat the shrimp dry with a paper towel.
In a bowl, soak the shrimp in buttermilk for 10-15 minutes to tenderize and enhance flavor.

2. Set Up the Breading Stations

In one bowl, mix flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
In another bowl, beat the eggs.
In a third bowl, place panko breadcrumbs.

3. Bread the Shrimp

Remove shrimp from buttermilk, letting excess liquid drip off.
Dredge in the flour mixture, dip into the beaten eggs, and coat with panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently for an even coating.

4. Air Fry the Shrimp

Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
Spray the air fryer basket with oil and arrange shrimp in a single layer.
Lightly spray the shrimp with cooking oil.
Cook for 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and crispy.

5. Make the Bang Bang Sauce

In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and lime juice until well combined.
Toss the cooked shrimp in the sauce or drizzle it over the top.

6. Assemble the Tacos

Warm the tortillas in a pan or microwave.
Fill each tortilla with shredded lettuce or cabbage, crispy shrimp, diced tomatoes, and avocado.
Drizzle with extra Bang Bang sauce and garnish with cilantro if desired.

7. Serve and Enjoy

Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of freshness.

Variations

Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free panko and corn tortillas.
Extra Spicy: Add more sriracha or a pinch of cayenne to the Bang Bang sauce.
Low-Carb Option: Use lettuce wraps instead of tortillas.
Dairy-Free: Swap buttermilk for almond milk with a splash of lemon juice.
Grilled Shrimp: Skip the breading and grill the shrimp for a lighter version.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftover shrimp in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Freezing: Freeze breaded but uncooked shrimp for up to 2 months. Cook directly from frozen in the air fryer.
Reheating: Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-4 minutes to maintain crispiness.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, but thaw them completely and pat dry before breading.

What type of tortillas work best?

Both flour and corn tortillas work well, but flour tortillas are softer and hold fillings better.

Can I make the Bang Bang sauce ahead of time?

Yes! Store it in the fridge for up to a week.

How do I make the shrimp crispier?

Use panko breadcrumbs and lightly spray with oil before air frying.

Can I bake the shrimp instead of air frying?

Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.

What sides pair well with these tacos?

Try cilantro-lime rice, black beans, or a fresh mango salsa.

Is there a way to make this dish healthier?

Use Greek yogurt instead of mayo in the Bang Bang sauce and opt for whole wheat or lettuce wraps.

How do I keep the shrimp crispy after air frying?

Serve immediately and avoid stacking them, as steam can soften the coating.

What other proteins can I use?

Chicken, tofu, or even cauliflower can be substituted for shrimp.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, but cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the air fryer.

Conclusion

These Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are a deliciously crispy, spicy, and creamy dish that’s easy to make and perfect for a quick weeknight meal. With healthier cooking techniques and vibrant flavors, they’re sure to be a hit. Try them today and enjoy restaurant-quality tacos at home!

Print