Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos

If you’re looking for a fun and delicious dinner idea that will make your taste buds dance, you’ve come to the right place! These Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are a delightful twist on a classic favorite. They bring that crispy, crunchy texture and spicy flavor straight from the restaurant into your very own kitchen. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a laid-back family gathering, these tacos are perfect for any occasion.

What I love most about this recipe is how quickly it comes together—under 30 minutes! You’ll have a plate full of tasty tacos that everyone will enjoy. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into this mouthwatering adventure!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time and 7 minutes of cooking, you can whip up these tacos in no time.
• Crispy Goodness: The air fryer gives the shrimp a delicious crunch without the extra oil—perfect for those who want to eat healthier!
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves tacos, and with the customizable toppings, each person can create their perfect bite.
• Flavor Explosion: The creamy bang bang sauce combined with zesty slaw elevates these tacos to next-level deliciousness.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make the shrimp and slaw ahead of time for an easy-to-assemble dinner later in the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple and wholesome, making it easy to create something special in your kitchen. Gather them up, and let’s get cooking!

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 (add 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 Assembling:

• 10 flour tortillas
• Chopped green onion for garnish

Variations

One of the best things about these Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos is their flexibility! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Swap the protein: Try chicken or tofu instead of shrimp for a different twist.
• Make it vegetarian: Use crispy chickpeas as a protein option for a delightful vegetarian version.
• Enhance the flavors: Add diced mango or avocado to your slaw for an extra pop of freshness.
• Change up the sauce: Experiment with different sauces like chipotle mayo for a smoky kick!

How to Make Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos

Step 1: Prepare Your Shrimp

First, pat the shrimp dry to ensure they get nice and crispy in the air fryer. Set up your dredging station with three shallow bowls: one with tapioca flour mixed with seasonings, another with breadcrumbs, and finally one with whisked eggs and a splash of water. This setup makes coating each shrimp super easy!

Step 2: Bread the Shrimp

Dip each shrimp into the tapioca flour first, then into the egg mixture, followed by the panko breadcrumbs. Using one hand for wet ingredients and another for dry helps keep things tidy! Place them in your air fryer basket and spray them lightly with oil. You might need to do this in two batches to avoid overcrowding.

Step 3: Air Fry Away!

Air fry those breaded beauties at 390°F for about 7 minutes. Flip them halfway through cooking to ensure both sides get golden brown. A quick spray of oil after flipping helps achieve that perfect crispiness.

Step 4: Make Your Sauces

While waiting on that heavenly shrimp, whisk together all ingredients for the bang bang sauce in a medium bowl until smooth. Next, toss all slaw ingredients in a large bowl until everything is well combined. This slaw adds crunch and brightness!

Step 5: Combine Shrimp and Sauce

Once your shrimp is done cooking, transfer it to a large bowl and pour over most of that scrumptious bang bang sauce (make sure to save some for drizzling later). Gently toss everything together so every piece gets coated in that creamy goodness.

Step 6: Assemble Your Tacos

Warm your tortillas over an open flame or in a pan until they’re soft and pliable. Now comes the fun part—assemble your tacos! Start with a tortilla, add some slaw, top it off with plenty of bang bang shrimp, drizzle on any remaining sauce, and finish with some sliced green onion. Dive in and enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos

Creating the perfect Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos is a breeze with these simple tips!

• Prep Ahead: Preparing your shrimp and slaw in advance can save you time during busy weeknights. You can marinate the shrimp and store the slaw in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook.
• Keep it Crispy: Make sure to spray your breaded shrimp with cooking spray before air frying. This helps achieve that golden, crispy texture without excess oil.
• Adjust the Spice: Feel free to customize the spiciness of the bang bang sauce by adjusting the amount of sriracha. Starting with less allows you to cater to everyone’s taste buds!
• Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: To ensure even cooking and crispiness, avoid overcrowding your air fryer basket. It’s better to cook in batches for perfect results every time.
• Experiment with Toppings: Get creative with toppings! Avocado slices, diced tomatoes, or even pineapple salsa can add an exciting twist to your tacos.

How to Serve Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos

Presenting these tacos can be just as fun as making them! Here are some ideas to make your meal visually appealing and delicious.

Garnishes

• Chopped Cilantro: Adds a fresh burst of flavor that complements the shrimp perfectly.
• Lime Wedges: A squeeze of lime brightens up the dish and enhances all the flavors.
• Sliced Jalapeños: For those who enjoy an extra kick, fresh jalapeños offer a spicy crunch.

Side Dishes

• Mexican Street Corn Salad: This creamy and zesty corn salad is packed with flavor and pairs beautifully with shrimp tacos.
• Black Bean Salsa: A mix of black beans, corn, tomatoes, and spices creates a refreshing side that’s rich in protein.
• Guacamole: Creamy guacamole not only adds richness but also balances out the spicy notes in your tacos.
• Cilantro Lime Rice: Light and fragrant rice tossed with cilantro and lime juice makes for a delightful complement to your meal.

With these serving suggestions and tips, you’re sure to impress family or friends with your delicious Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos! Enjoy every flavorful bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are perfect for meal prep, making them a convenient option for busy weeknights. You can prepare the shrimp, sauce, and slaw ahead of time, allowing you to assemble your tacos in a flash!

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover shrimp and slaw in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator.
• Consume within 2-3 days for the best taste and texture.
• Reheat the shrimp in the air fryer for a few minutes to regain that crispy texture.

Freezing

• Cooked shrimp can be frozen. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze before transferring to an airtight freezer bag.
• Use within 1-2 months for optimal freshness.
• Do not freeze the slaw or tortillas as they do not hold up well.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat the shrimp in your air fryer at 350°F for about 5 minutes.
• Alternatively, you can reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
• Avoid microwaving as it may make the shrimp soggy.

FAQs

Have questions about these delicious tacos? Here are some commonly asked ones!

Can I make Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos without shrimp?

Absolutely! You can substitute shrimp with plant-based alternatives like crispy tofu or even cauliflower for a delightful vegetarian option.

How spicy are Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos?

The spiciness largely depends on how much sriracha you add to the bang bang sauce. Start with less and adjust according to your taste preferences!

What is the best way to serve Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos?

Serve them warm with fresh toppings like chopped cilantro and green onions. A squeeze of lime adds a refreshing touch!

Final Thoughts

These Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are more than just a meal; they’re an experience filled with bold flavors and textures. I hope you enjoy whipping them up as much as I do! They’re perfect for casual dinners or impressing friends at gatherings. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait for you to try this delightful recipe!