Name: Crispy Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Under 300 Calories Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Jumbo Shrimp (peeled and deveined); 1/2 cup Flour or Cornstarch (use cornstarch for gluten-free); to taste Salt & Pepper; 1 large Egg (or substitute with a flax egg for vegan option); as needed Olive Oil Cooking Spray (or any cooking spray); 1/2 cup Mayo (or Light Mayo); 1/4 cup Sweet Thai Chili Sauce; to taste Sriracha (adjust according to spice preference)

The tantalizing aroma of crispy shrimp wafting through the kitchen can instantly lift any spirit. Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp brings the vibrant essence of restaurant dining right to your home, marrying a perfectly crunchy exterior with tender, juicy shrimp—all while keeping it under 300 calories per serving. This delightful dish is not only quick to prepare, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights or spontaneous game day gatherings, but it also packs a punch with its irresistible sweet and spicy bang bang sauce. Imagine serving this crowd-pleaser as an appetizer or main course that satisfies both taste buds and health goals. Are you ready to indulge in this lighter twist on a classic favorite? Let’s get cooking!

Why is this recipe a must-try?

Crispy Texture: The air fryer gives you a delightfully crisp exterior without the excess oil, allowing you to enjoy your favorite dish guilt-free.

Sweet and Spicy Flavor: This bang bang sauce tantalizes your taste buds with its perfect balance of heat and sweetness, making every bite a flavor explosion.

Quick Preparation: With just a few simple steps, this recipe is ideal for weeknight dinners or when you’re short on time but still want something impressive.

Versatile Options: Feel free to swap the shrimp for chicken or tofu, or try different sauces like teriyaki for a fun twist.

Health-Conscious Choice: At under 300 calories per serving, enjoy all the flavor without compromising your diet.

Why not pair this delicious dish with a side of veggie skewers or a refreshing salad for a well-rounded meal? Happy cooking!

Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Ingredients

For the Shrimp
• Jumbo Shrimp – Choose peeled and deveined shrimp for ease and quick preparation.
• Flour or Cornstarch – Use flour for a traditional coating, or opt for cornstarch for a gluten-free version.
• Salt & Pepper – Season to taste; these staples enhance the flavor perfectly.
• Egg – Acts as a binder for the coating; substitute with a flax egg for a vegan option.

For the Cooking
• Olive Oil Cooking Spray – Prevents sticking and promotes a crispy texture; any cooking spray can be used.

For the Bang Bang Sauce
• Mayo (or Light Mayo) – Provides creaminess to the sauce; light mayo keeps it calorically friendly.
• Sweet Thai Chili Sauce – This crucial ingredient is responsible for the signature sweet and spicy flavor of bang bang shrimp.
• Sriracha – Adds a kick of heat; adjust according to how spicy you like it for the perfect balance.

With these ingredients on hand, you’re just moments away from making delicious Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp that everyone will love!

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

Step 1: Prepare Shrimp
Begin by patting the jumbo shrimp dry with a paper towel. This step ensures they get crispy during cooking. Make sure they’re peeled and deveined for a smooth texture. Once dry, set them aside while you preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).

Step 2: Coat Shrimp
In a mixing bowl, combine flour or cornstarch with salt and pepper. In a separate bowl, beat an egg until well blended. Take each shrimp, dip it into the egg wash, letting any excess drip off, then coat it thoroughly in the flour mixture. This will create a crispy outer layer for your Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp.

Step 3: Air Fry
Spray the air fryer basket with olive oil cooking spray to prevent sticking. Arrange the coated shrimp in a single layer in the basket, making sure not to overcrowd. Lightly spray the shrimp with more cooking spray. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for about 10-12 minutes until they’re golden brown and cooked through, shaking the basket halfway for even crisping.

Step 4: Make Sauce
While the shrimp cook, prepare the bang bang sauce. In a bowl, whisk together mayo (or light mayo), sweet Thai chili sauce, and Sriracha until smooth and creamy. Adjust the Sriracha according to your desired spice level. Set this flavorful sauce aside, as it will coat the shrimp once they’re ready.

Step 5: Toss and Serve
Carefully remove the crispy shrimp from the air fryer and transfer them to a mixing bowl. Pour the bang bang sauce over the shrimp, tossing gently until they’re evenly coated. For an added touch, garnish with sliced greens or sesame seeds. Serve your delightful Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp immediately for the best crispy texture and flavor.

Make Ahead Options

These Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp are a fantastic choice for meal prep! You can coat the shrimp and refrigerate them (up to 24 hours) before cooking, which keeps them fresh and saves valuable time during busy evenings. Additionally, you can prepare the bang bang sauce and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to ensure it stays flavorful. When you’re ready to enjoy this dish, simply air fry the prepped shrimp straight from the fridge and toss them in the sauce. By prepping ahead, you’ll cut down on cooking time and deliver a delicious meal that is just as crispy and satisfying as if you made it fresh!

Expert Tips for Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp

Shrimp Size Matters: Stick to jumbo shrimp for the best texture; smaller shrimp might cook too quickly and lead to rubbery bites.
Don’t Overcrowd: Ensure the shrimp are in a single layer in the air fryer; overcrowding can prevent them from getting crispy and evenly cooked.
Adjust the Sauce: If you’re sensitive to spice, adjust the Sriracha in the bang bang sauce to your taste; adding less will keep the sauce flavorful without overwhelming heat.
Watch Cooking Time: Since cooking time may vary depending on your air fryer model, check the shrimp a couple of minutes early to avoid overcooking.
Crispy Coating Tip: For extra crunch on your Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp, consider adding crushed panko breadcrumbs to the flour mixture.
Storage Advice: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat them in the air fryer for the best texture.

How to Store and Freeze Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps your Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp fresh and ready for a quick snack or meal.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooked shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer bag. They can last up to 2 months.

Reheating: Reheat from frozen in the air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes until heated through and crispy. Avoid using the microwave as it can make them soggy.

How to Refresh: If reheating from the fridge, simply air fry at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes for a perfect crispy finish!

What to Serve with Crispy Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp?

Imagine the vibrant colors and enticing aromas of a delightful spread that perfectly complements your air-fried creation!

Creamy Coleslaw: A cool, crisp coleslaw balances the heat of the shrimp with its refreshing crunch, making each bite a delightful contrast.
Steamed Jasmine Rice: The subtle nuttiness of jasmine rice provides a fluffy base that soaks up the delicious bang bang sauce, enhancing every mouthful.
Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Charred veggies add a smoky flavor and added nutrition, offering a beautiful presentation alongside the crispy shrimp.
Crisp Garden Salad: A fresh salad topped with a zesty vinaigrette complements the rich shrimp; think mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers.
Sweet Potato Fries: These crispy fries exude a natural sweetness that pairs well with the spicy bang bang sauce, creating a fun and flavorful side.
Zucchini Noodles: Light and refreshing, zoodles provide a wonderful texture while keeping the meal on the healthier side for an even lighter option.
Sparkling Water with Lime: A bubbly drink helps cleanse your palate and enhances the meal’s overall freshness with zesty citrus notes.
Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, a rich chocolate mousse offers a luxurious finish to your meal, creating a perfect sweet and satisfying end after the flavorful shrimp.

Embrace the joy of pairing these delightful dishes with your Crispy Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp for an unforgettable dining experience!

Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Variations

Feel free to get creative with your Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp, tailoring it to your taste preferences!

Chicken or Tofu: Substitute jumbo shrimp with chicken breast or cubed tofu for a varied protein option that still retains flavor.
Panko Crunch: Add crushed panko breadcrumbs to the flour mixture for an extra crunchy coating that elevates the texture appeal even further.
Sauce Diversions: Swap out the bang bang sauce for teriyaki or a spicy barbecue sauce to introduce new flavors to the dish; this change can add a refreshing twist.
Herb Flavors: Mix freshly chopped herbs like cilantro or green onions into your sauce for a burst of freshness that brightens every bite.
Low-Calorie Option: Use Greek yogurt instead of mayo for a tangy, lower-calorie bang bang sauce that maintains creaminess without the excess calories.
Heat Levels: Experiment with different hot sauces in the bang bang sauce; try a smoky chipotle sauce for a unique flavor or mix sweet and spicy sriracha for added depth.
Coconut Twist: Incorporate shredded coconut into the coating, providing a tropical flair and rich cultural zing to your bang bang shrimp experience.
Zesty Lime: Drizzle some fresh lime juice over the shrimp before serving for an unforgettable citrus burst that complements the sweetness of the sauce beautifully.

These variations can help you explore flavors and styles you might love. For even more delicious choices, don’t miss the chance to try out my Bang Bang Shrimp recipe; it’s sure to ignite your culinary creativity!

Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe FAQs

What shrimp should I use for the best results?
I recommend using jumbo shrimp as they provide the best texture and flavor. Peel and devein them for ease; smaller shrimp might cook too quickly and result in a rubbery texture.

How should I store leftovers?
Store your leftover Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps maintain freshness and prevents any loss of flavor.

Can I freeze Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp?
Absolutely! To freeze, lay the cooked shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about an hour. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container. They can last up to 2 months in the freezer. When ready to eat, reheat them directly from the freezer in the air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes until heated through and crispy.

What should I do if my shrimp aren’t getting crispy?
Ensure that you are not overcrowding the air fryer basket, as this can impede proper air circulation, leading to less crispy shrimp. Additionally, make sure you’re using enough cooking spray to promote crispiness. If needed, increase the cooking time by a minute or two but be cautious not to overcook.

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Definitely! For a gluten-free option, substitute flour with cornstarch in the coating. If you’re vegan, use a flax egg instead of a regular egg for binding. Lastly, consider the spiciness of the bang bang sauce; adjust the amount of Sriracha based on your preferences and heat tolerance.

How can I make this dish lower in calories?
To make your Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp even lighter, use light mayo for the sauce instead of regular mayo, and keep the amount of sweet Thai chili sauce in check. Since this dish is already under 300 calories per serving, these adjustments will help keep it healthy and delicious!