Oh my goodness, you have to try these air fryer bang bang shrimp bites! I was skeptical at first – could an air fryer really give me that perfect crispy texture without all the oil? But let me tell you, the first time I made these, I was hooked. The shrimp come out so golden and crunchy, and that creamy-spicy sauce? Absolute perfection. What I love most is how quick and easy they are – ready in under 30 minutes! These have become my go-to when friends pop over unexpectedly or when I need a tasty snack that feels indulgent but isn’t too heavy. Trust me, once you try this method, you’ll never want to deep-fry shrimp again!
Oh my gosh, you have got to try these air fryer bang bang shrimp bites! I was skeptical at first—could an air fryer really give me that perfect crispy texture without deep frying? But trust me, after one bite of these golden, crunchy shrimp with that creamy-spicy sauce, I was completely sold. What I love most is how ridiculously easy they are—ready in under 30 minutes, with barely any cleanup. They’ve become my go-to when friends drop by unexpectedly or when I need a quick snack that feels fancy. That sweet-heat bang bang sauce? Absolute magic drizzled over these crispy little bites.
Why You’ll Love These Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Bites
Oh, where do I even start? These air fryer bang bang shrimp bites are seriously life-changing. Here’s why they’ve become my obsession:
- Crazy quick: From fridge to plate in under 30 minutes – perfect for those “I need something delicious NOW” moments
- That perfect crunch: The air fryer gives every bite that satisfying crispy texture without all the oil of deep frying
- Flavor explosion: Sweet, spicy, creamy sauce clinging to every crispy shrimp – it’s addictive!
- Cleanup’s a breeze: No vat of oil to deal with, just wipe out your air fryer basket
- Feel-good food: All the flavor of takeout with way less guilt
Seriously, once you try these, you’ll be making them weekly like I do!
Ingredients for Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Bites
Here’s everything you’ll need to make these addictive little bites (and yes, I’ve learned through trial and error that these exact measurements work best):
- 1 lb raw shrimp – peeled, deveined, tails off (medium size works perfectly)
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs – the secret to that incredible crunch
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour – for the first coating layer
- 2 eggs – beaten well (I use large eggs)
- 1/2 tsp salt – plus more to taste
- 1/2 tsp black pepper – freshly ground if you have it
Ingredient Notes
The panko makes all the difference – regular breadcrumbs just don’t get as crispy. For heat lovers, bump up the sriracha to 2 tsp! Out of mayo? Greek yogurt works in the sauce (just add an extra tsp of honey). And if you’re gluten-free, almond flour and gluten-free panko work beautifully – I’ve tested both!
How to Make Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Bites
Okay, let’s get cooking! Here’s exactly how I make these irresistible air fryer bang bang shrimp bites every time:
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) – this gives the shrimp that perfect crispy start
- Dry those shrimp! Pat them thoroughly with paper towels (wet shrimp = soggy breading)
- Set up your breading station: Three bowls – flour first, beaten eggs second, panko mixed with salt and pepper last
- Coat each shrimp: Flour first (tap off excess), egg bath, then press firmly into panko – this ensures maximum crunch
- Air fry in batches: Single layer only! Lightly spray with oil and cook 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway
- Make the sauce: While shrimp cook, whisk mayo, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey and lime juice
- Serve immediately: Drizzle sauce over crispy shrimp or serve on the side for dipping
Tips for Perfect Crispiness
Three golden rules: 1) Shrimp must be bone-dry before breading, 2) Never skip the oil spray – just a light mist makes all the difference, and 3) Crowding is the enemy! Give each shrimp breathing room in the basket.
Serving Suggestions for Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Bites
I love getting creative with how to serve these crispy shrimp bites! My favorite way is piled high on a platter with extra bang bang sauce for dipping, but here are some other delicious ideas:
- Stuff them into butter lettuce cups with shredded cabbage for a light meal
- Serve alongside cool, creamy coleslaw to balance the heat
- Skewer them as appetizers with lime wedges for squeezing
- Pair with coconut rice and grilled pineapple for a tropical twist
Honestly, they disappear so fast I usually just put them out straight from the air fryer!
Storage and Reheating
If (miraculously) you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To bring back that magical crispiness, reheat in your air fryer at 350°F for just 3 minutes – no soggy microwave shrimp here! Pro tip: Store the sauce separately and drizzle fresh when serving.
Nutritional Information
Just so you know, these numbers can vary based on your specific ingredients and brands. But per serving, you’re looking at about 320 calories packed with 20g of protein – not bad for something this delicious! The air fryer magic keeps the fat content way lower than traditional fried versions too. For more information on general nutritional guidelines, check out the CDC’s guidelines on healthy weight.
FAQ
Can I use frozen shrimp for these air fryer bang bang shrimp bites?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely in the fridge overnight first. Pat them extra dry – frozen shrimp tend to hold more moisture. I’ve found medium frozen shrimp work just as well as fresh when properly prepped.
How can I make these shrimp bites spicier?
Oh, I love this question! The beauty of the bang bang sauce is how customizable it is. For more heat, bump up the sriracha to 2 tsp (or more if you’re brave). You could also add a pinch of cayenne to the breading mixture. My husband likes when I add a few drops of chili oil to the sauce – gives it an extra kick! If you are interested in learning more about chili peppers, you can explore resources on capsaicin and its effects.
Can I bake these instead of using an air fryer?
Yes! Preheat your oven to 425°F and bake on a wire rack set over a baking sheet for about 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway. They won’t get quite as crispy as the air fryer version, but still delicious. Pro tip: Give them a quick broil at the end for extra crunch!
If you are looking for other quick and easy meals made in your appliance, check out this air fryer beef meatballs with marinara recipe.
Print
Irresistible Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Bites in 30 Minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
Crispy shrimp bites with a creamy, spicy bang bang sauce, made easily in your air fryer for a quick appetizer or snack.
Ingredients
- 1 lb raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp sweet chili sauce
- 1 tsp sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp honey
- 1 tsp lime juice
Instructions
- Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Pat shrimp dry with paper towels.
- Set up three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs mixed with salt and pepper.
- Coat shrimp in flour, dip in egg, then press into breadcrumbs.
- Place shrimp in air fryer basket in a single layer, lightly spray with oil.
- Air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
- Mix mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and lime juice to make the sauce.
- Drizzle sauce over shrimp or serve as a dip.
Notes
- Use medium shrimp for best texture.
- Make sure shrimp are fully dry before breading.
- Adjust sriracha for more or less heat.
- Serve immediately for maximum crispiness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American