Irresistible Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos Recipe
There’s something incredibly satisfying about a meal that brings everyone to the table, and these Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos do just that! Inspired by the beloved dish from Bonefish Grill, this recipe takes a delicious classic and makes it healthier and quicker. With crispy shrimp tossed in a creamy, spicy sauce and served with fresh slaw, it’s a fun dinner option that’s perfect for any occasion—whether it’s taco night at home, a casual get-together with friends, or even a cozy family dinner.
One of the best parts? These tacos can be ready in under 30 minutes! The air fryer gives the shrimp that irresistible crunch without the extra oil, making it a guilt-free indulgence. Trust me; once you try these tacos, they’ll quickly become a favorite in your household.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
– Quick and easy: This recipe comes together in just 22 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
– Healthier twist: Air frying minimizes oil while still delivering that crispy texture we all love.
– Customizable: You can easily adjust the spice level or swap ingredients based on your preferences.
– Great for gatherings: These tacos are sure to impress guests at parties or casual dinners.
– Flavor-packed: The combination of bang bang sauce and fresh slaw brings bold flavors to every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients is part of the fun! This recipe requires simple items that pack a punch. Here’s what you’ll need to make your Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos:
For the Shrimp
– 1 lb large raw shrimp (peeled, deveined & tail-off)
– 2 large eggs
– 1.5 cups panko breadcrumbs (preferably Japanese-style)
– ½ cup tapioca flour (or arrowroot starch or cornstarch)
– ½ tsp paprika
– ½ tsp garlic powder
– ¼ tsp onion powder
– kosher salt & black pepper
– cooking spray
For the Bang Bang Sauce
– ½ cup mayonnaise
– ¼ cup thai sweet chili sauce
– 1 tsp sriracha (more if you like it spicier)
For the Slaw
– 8 oz coleslaw mix
– ¼ cup chopped cilantro
– ¼ cup chopped green onion
– 2 tbsp mayonnaise
– juice from ½ lime
– squirt of sriracha
– kosher salt (to taste)
For Serving
– 10 flour tortillas
– chopped green onion
Variations
One of the best things about tacos is their versatility! Feel free to mix things up with these ideas:
– Swap the protein: Use chicken or tofu instead of shrimp for a different flavor profile.
– Change up the sauce: Try adding some lime juice or avocado to your bang bang sauce for added freshness.
– Experiment with toppings: Add sliced avocados or diced tomatoes for an extra layer of flavor and texture.
– Use different tortillas: Corn tortillas can give your tacos a unique twist and are gluten-free!
How to Make Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos
Step 1: Dry and Dredge the Shrimp
First, pat the shrimp dry. Setting up your dredging station properly makes all the difference! Prepare three shallow bowls: one with tapioca flour and seasonings, another with breadcrumbs, and finally whisk together eggs with a splash of water in the last bowl.
Step 2: Bread the Shrimp
Dip each shrimp into the tapioca flour first, then into the egg mixture, followed by coating it in breadcrumbs. To keep things tidy, use one hand for wet ingredients and one for dry. This technique helps reduce mess while ensuring each shrimp is evenly coated. Once breaded, place them in your air fryer basket and give them a light spray with cooking oil.
Step 3: Air Fry the Shrimp
Preheat your air fryer to 390F. Cook the shrimp for about seven minutes total—don’t forget to flip them halfway through! Spraying the other side with oil after flipping allows for optimal crispiness.
Step 4: Prepare Your Sauces
While waiting for those delicious shrimp to cook, whisk together all of your bang bang sauce ingredients in a medium bowl until smooth. In another large bowl, toss together all slaw ingredients until well combined. This step enhances flavor throughout!
Step 5: Combine It All
Once your shrimp is perfectly cooked, transfer them to a large bowl and drizzle on that tasty bang bang sauce (saving some for garnish if you wish). Toss everything gently but thoroughly so each piece gets coated beautifully.
Step 6: Assemble Your Tacos
Warm your tortillas using an open flame, pan, or microwave as you prefer. Now comes the fun part—assembly! Start with a tortilla base, add some slaw, pile on those crispy shrimp, drizzle any remaining bang bang sauce over top, and finish off with sliced green onion for that extra pop. Enjoy every bite!
And there you have it—a delightful dish that’s not only easy to make but also bursting with flavor!
Pro Tips for Making Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos
Making these Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos is a fun and rewarding experience! Here are some tips to ensure your tacos turn out perfectly crispy and delicious every time.
– Use fresh shrimp: For the best flavor and texture, opt for fresh, high-quality shrimp. Frozen shrimp works too; just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.
– Don’t overcrowd the air fryer: Cooking the shrimp in batches allows for even cooking and crispiness. If you overcrowd the basket, they may steam instead of fry.
– Adjust the spice level: Feel free to modify the amount of sriracha in the bang bang sauce based on your spice preference. You can also add more chili sauce if you love heat.
– Make it gluten-free: Substitute regular flour tortillas with gluten-free tortillas, and ensure your breadcrumbs are certified gluten-free.
– Experiment with toppings: Get creative with toppings! Avocado slices, diced tomatoes, or a squeeze of lime can elevate your tacos even further.
How to Serve Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos
Serving these tacos is all about presentation and enhancing their delicious flavors. Here are some delightful ideas to make your meal even more enjoyable.
Garnishes
– Chopped cilantro: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds a wonderful herbal note that complements the shrimp beautifully.
– Lime wedges: Serve wedges on the side for an extra burst of citrus freshness right before digging in.
Side Dishes
– Mexican street corn (Elote): The sweet corn pairs wonderfully with the spicy shrimp and adds a lovely crunch.
– Black bean salad: A refreshing black bean salad provides a nutritious and colorful addition to your taco night.
– Rice or quinoa: Serving these tacos with a side of seasoned rice or quinoa makes for a heartier meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Meal prepping can save you time during busy weeks! Here’s how to store any leftovers or make ahead.
Storing Leftovers
– Allow leftover shrimp to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Freezing
– To freeze, place cooked shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen solid. Then transfer them into an airtight freezer bag for up to 1 month.
Reheating
– Reheat the shrimp in the air fryer at 350F for about 5 minutes until heated through. This will help retain their crispiness.
FAQs
If you have questions about making Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before breading.
What if I don’t have panko breadcrumbs?
You can substitute with regular breadcrumbs if necessary, but panko will give you that extra crunch!
How do I make this recipe dairy-free?
This recipe is naturally dairy-free since it uses mayonnaise without any animal-derived ingredients. Always check labels when purchasing condiments.
Final Thoughts
I hope you’re excited to try these Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos! They are not only delicious but also quick and easy to prepare, making them perfect for any weeknight dinner. Don’t forget to share your creations and enjoy every bite! Happy cooking!
Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos
Ingredients
Method
- Pat the shrimp dry and prepare three shallow bowls: one with tapioca flour and seasonings, another with breadcrumbs, and the last with whisked eggs and a splash of water.
- Dip each shrimp into the tapioca flour, then into the egg mixture, and finally coat it in breadcrumbs. Place them in the air fryer basket and spray lightly with cooking oil.
- Preheat the air fryer to 390F and cook the shrimp for about seven minutes, flipping halfway through and spraying the other side with oil after flipping.
- While the shrimp cooks, whisk together all bang bang sauce ingredients in a medium bowl and toss together all slaw ingredients in another large bowl.
- Once the shrimp is cooked, transfer to a large bowl and drizzle with bang bang sauce, tossing gently to coat.
- Warm the tortillas and assemble by starting with a tortilla, adding slaw, crispy shrimp, drizzling with remaining bang bang sauce, and topping with sliced green onion.
