Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos
Highlighted under: Quick & Easy
Savor the delicious combination of crispy air-fried shrimp and zesty bang bang sauce in these delightful tacos. Perfectly seasoned and topped with fresh veggies, these tacos are a quick and easy weeknight dinner that’s sure to impress the whole family. Enjoy a fusion of crispy texture and spicy flavors wrapped in a warm tortilla for a tasty meal that’s both satisfying and fun to make.
These Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are the perfect blend of crunchy and creamy, spicy and savory. They bring a fun twist to taco night!
Crispy Perfection
One of the standout features of these Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos is the irresistible crispiness of the shrimp. The combination of panko breadcrumbs and flour creates a delightful texture that adds a satisfying crunch to every bite. Once air-fried, these shrimp become golden and delicious while remaining tender on the inside. It’s a healthier alternative to deep-frying, allowing you to enjoy that perfect crunch without extra oil.
Air frying not only enhances the flavor and texture of the shrimp but also reduces the overall cooking time. In just 8-10 minutes, you can transform simple shrimp into a restaurant-quality dish. This means you can whip up a tasty dinner in no time, making it ideal for busy weeknights or unexpected dinner guests. Plus, the air fryer is simple to operate and easy to clean, making it a favorite among home cooks.
The Zesty Bang Bang Sauce
The Bang Bang sauce is the star of the show when it comes to flavor. Its unique combination of creamy mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and a hit of sriracha creates a perfect balance of heat and sweetness that pairs beautifully with the crispy shrimp. This sauce is not only quick to make, but it also has the versatility to enhance other dishes, making it a must-have in your condiment repertoire.
Whisking the sauce together is a breeze, and it can be adjusted to suit your personal taste. If you prefer less spice, simply reduce the amount of sriracha. Alternatively, for a fiery kick, add more! This sauce will have your taste buds dancing, transforming ordinary tacos into extraordinary culinary delights.
A Healthy Taco Alternative
These Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are a fantastic alternative to traditional fried shrimp tacos and heavy cream-based sauces. By using air-fried shrimp and fresh vegetables, you can enjoy a flavorful meal that feels indulgent without the guilt. Adding shredded lettuce and diced tomatoes not only boosts the nutrition of each taco but also adds freshness and color to your plate.
Additionally, by using small tortillas, you can control portion sizes while still enjoying a satisfying meal. This makes these tacos a family-friendly option that kids will love, as they can customize their tacos with their favorite toppings and sauces. It’s a fun way to introduce new flavors and textures to their meals while prioritizing health.
Ingredients
Ingredients
For the Shrimp
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup flour
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Bang Bang Sauce
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce
- 1 teaspoon lime juice
For Serving
- 8 small tortillas
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
Enjoy your flavorful tacos!
Instructions
Instructions
Prepare the Shrimp
In a bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Dip each shrimp in the beaten egg, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
Air Fry the Shrimp
Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the coated shrimp in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 8-10 minutes or until crispy and golden.
Make the Bang Bang Sauce
In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and lime juice until smooth.
Assemble the Tacos
Warm the tortillas and layer with shrimp, bang bang sauce, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and chopped cilantro.
Serve immediately and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions
Serve these Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos with a side of lime wedges for an added burst of flavor. The acidity from the lime juice complements the richness of the shrimp and the creaminess of the bang bang sauce beautifully. For an extra crunch, consider adding some pickled red onions or jalapeños to the tacos, which will enhance their flavor profile without overwhelming the dish.
Pair these tacos with a refreshing drink, like a homemade mojito or a tall glass of iced tea, to balance the spiciness. This meal is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it perfect for entertaining. Impress your friends and family by presenting these vibrant tacos on a colorful platter alongside your favorite sides.
Storage Tips
If you have leftovers, store the shrimp and toppings separately to maintain the integrity of the dish. Place the cooled shrimp in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. When it’s time to enjoy the leftovers, simply reheat the shrimp in the air fryer for a few minutes to reinstate that crispy exterior before assembling your tacos again.
The bang bang sauce can be stored in the fridge for up to a week, making it easy to prep in advance. This way, you can enjoy these tasty tacos or use the sauce in other dishes, like salads or as a dip for veggies and chips, maximizing your meal prep and minimizing food waste.
Variations and Customizations
Feel free to make these tacos your own by exploring different protein options! Instead of shrimp, you could use chicken, tofu, or even jackfruit for a vegetarian twist. Each protein will soak up the bang bang sauce beautifully, creating a tasty meal that caters to different dietary preferences.
For a fresh take on the dish, consider adding different toppings such as avocado slices, diced mango, or shredded cabbage. Each addition can change the flavor profile and keep this meal exciting every time you make it. Don't hesitate to experiment with flavors; cooking is all about creativity and enjoyment!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs.
→ How spicy is the bang bang sauce?
The spiciness can be adjusted by changing the amount of sriracha used.
Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos
Savor the delicious combination of crispy air-fried shrimp and zesty bang bang sauce in these delightful tacos. Perfectly seasoned and topped with fresh veggies, these tacos are a quick and easy weeknight dinner that’s sure to impress the whole family. Enjoy a fusion of crispy texture and spicy flavors wrapped in a warm tortilla for a tasty meal that’s both satisfying and fun to make.
Created by: Rowan Tate
Recipe Type: Quick & Easy
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Shrimp
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup flour
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Bang Bang Sauce
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce
- 1 teaspoon lime juice
For Serving
- 8 small tortillas
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
How-To Steps
In a bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Dip each shrimp in the beaten egg, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the coated shrimp in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 8-10 minutes or until crispy and golden.
In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and lime juice until smooth.
Warm the tortillas and layer with shrimp, bang bang sauce, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and chopped cilantro.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 20g