Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe

Shrimp: Peeled and deveined, these are the star of the dish, providing a succulent and tender texture.

Cornstarch: Helps to create a crispy coating on the shrimp when air fried.

Mayonnaise: Adds creaminess to the bang bang sauce, balancing the heat.

Sweet chili sauce: Provides a sweet and tangy flavor to the sauce.

Sriracha: Adds a spicy kick to the sauce, adjustable to your heat preference.

Garlic powder: Enhances the flavor of the shrimp with a subtle garlic taste.

Paprika: Adds a mild, smoky flavor to the shrimp coating.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

Black pepper: Adds a hint of spice and depth to the shrimp coating.

When coating the shrimp in the cornstarch mixture, make sure to press the mixture firmly onto each piece. This ensures a crispier texture when cooked in the air fryer. Additionally, avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to allow hot air to circulate evenly around each shrimp, resulting in a perfectly crispy exterior.

• shrimp - Substitute with chicken breast: Chicken breast can mimic the texture and absorb the flavors well, making it a suitable alternative for those who don't eat seafood.

• cornstarch - Substitute with all-purpose flour: All-purpose flour can provide a similar coating and crispiness when air-fried.

• mayonnaise - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt offers a creamy texture and tangy flavor, making it a healthier alternative to mayonnaise.

• sweet chili sauce - Substitute with honey and hot sauce: Mixing honey and hot sauce can replicate the sweet and spicy profile of sweet chili sauce.

• sriracha - Substitute with hot sauce: Hot sauce can provide the necessary heat and flavor, though you may need to adjust the quantity to match the spice level of sriracha.

• garlic powder - Substitute with fresh garlic: Fresh garlic can offer a more intense and aromatic flavor, though you may need to use a bit more to match the potency of garlic powder.

• paprika - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper can add a similar color and a bit more heat, making it a good substitute for paprika.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a salty and umami flavor, though you may need to adjust the quantity to avoid overpowering the dish.

• black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper can provide a similar heat and flavor profile, making it a suitable alternative to black pepper.

• Allow the shrimp to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make the shrimp soggy.
• Place the cooled shrimp in an airtight container. For best results, use a container that fits the shrimp snugly to minimize air exposure.
• Store the container in the refrigerator if you plan to consume the shrimp within 2-3 days. This keeps the shrimp fresh and maintains their texture.
• For longer storage, place the shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours.
• Transfer the frozen shrimp to a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date to keep track of freshness.
• When ready to eat, reheat the shrimp in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes, or until heated through. This helps retain their crispy texture.
• Avoid microwaving the shrimp as it can make them rubbery and less appetizing.
• If you have leftover sauce, store it separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to a week.
• When reheating, toss the shrimp in the sauce just before serving to maintain their crispiness.

• Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover shrimp in a single layer in the basket. Heat for 3-5 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even reheating. This method keeps the shrimp crispy and delicious.

• For a quick stovetop method, heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of olive oil or butter. Once hot, add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally until heated through. This method helps maintain the shrimp's texture and flavor.

• If you prefer using the oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the shrimp on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover with aluminum foil to prevent drying out and bake for 7-10 minutes. This method is great for reheating larger batches.

• For a microwave option, place the shrimp on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through. Be cautious as this method can make the shrimp slightly rubbery.

• To add a twist, reheat the shrimp in a sauce pan with a bit of extra sweet chili sauce and sriracha. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring gently until warmed through. This method enhances the flavor and keeps the shrimp moist.

• Air fryer: A kitchen appliance that cooks by circulating hot air around the food, perfect for achieving a crispy texture on the shrimp without deep frying.

• Mixing bowl: Used to combine the cornstarch, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper, as well as to whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha.

• Whisk: Essential for thoroughly mixing the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha to create a smooth and consistent sauce.

• Tongs: Handy for placing the shrimp in the air fryer basket and for tossing the cooked shrimp in the sauce.

• Measuring cups: Necessary for accurately measuring the cornstarch, mayonnaise, and sweet chili sauce to ensure the recipe turns out perfectly.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure the sriracha, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper with precision.

• Serving plate: To present the finished Bang Bang Shrimp attractively and make it easy to serve immediately.

Pre-measure ingredients: Measure and prepare all ingredients ahead of time to streamline the cooking process.

Use pre-peeled shrimp: Purchase peeled and deveined shrimp to save time on preparation.

Mix sauces in advance: Combine the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha ahead of time and store in the fridge.

Batch cook: Cook the shrimp in batches if necessary, but ensure they are in a single layer for even cooking.

Shake halfway: Remember to shake the air fryer basket halfway through cooking to ensure even crispiness.