Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos: A Crispy, Spicy, and Irresistible Delight

If you love crispy shrimp, spicy-sweet sauce, and fresh slaw, then you’re in for a treat! Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos take the classic Bang Bang Shrimp and transform it into a delicious taco experience.

The air fryer gives the shrimp a crispy golden coating without deep frying, making this dish lighter, healthier, and just as delicious. Combined with a creamy, spicy Bang Bang sauce and a zesty slaw, these tacos are perfect for taco night, weeknight dinners, or even parties!

Let’s get started on making these incredibly flavorful shrimp tacos in your air fryer.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy, crunchy shrimp – Made without deep frying!
• Bold Bang Bang sauce – A creamy, spicy, and sweet drizzle of perfection.
• Fresh and zesty slaw – The perfect complement to the crispy shrimp.
• Healthier alternative – Uses less oil thanks to the air fryer.
• Easy and quick – Ready in under 30 minutes!

Ingredients for Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos

Here’s everything you’ll need to create these crunchy, spicy, and tangy shrimp tacos.

For the Air Fryer Shrimp

Ingredient	Quantity	Purpose
Large raw shrimp (peeled & deveined)	1 lb	The star protein of the dish
Eggs	2 large	Helps bind the coating
Panko breadcrumbs	1.5 cups	Creates a crispy texture
Tapioca flour (or arrowroot/cornstarch)	½ cup	Helps the coating stick
Paprika	½ teaspoon	Adds smoky depth
Garlic powder	½ teaspoon	Enhances the flavor
Onion powder	¼ teaspoon	Provides a subtle savory taste
Kosher salt & black pepper	To taste	Enhances overall flavor
Cooking spray	As needed	Ensures crispiness without excess oil

For the Bang Bang Sauce

Ingredient	Quantity	Purpose
Mayonnaise	½ cup	The creamy base of the sauce
Thai sweet chili sauce	¼ cup	Adds sweetness and spice
Sriracha	1 teaspoon (or more)	Brings heat

For the Slaw

Ingredient	Quantity	Purpose
Coleslaw mix	8 oz	Adds crunch and freshness
Chopped cilantro	¼ cup	Infuses fresh, herby flavor
Chopped green onion	¼ cup	Adds a mild oniony bite
Mayonnaise	2 tablespoons	Binds the slaw together
Lime juice	½ lime	Provides tangy brightness
Sriracha	A squirt	Optional, for extra spice
Kosher salt	To taste	Enhances flavor

To Serve

Ingredient	Quantity	Purpose
Flour tortillas	10	The base of your tacos
Chopped green onion	For garnish	Adds color and mild spice

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

1. Pat the Shrimp Dry

• Using paper towels, pat the shrimp completely dry.
• This step helps the coating stick better and results in a crispier texture.

2. Set Up Your Dredging Station

• Grab three shallow bowls for the breading process:
  1. Bowl 1 – Mix tapioca flour (or cornstarch), paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
  2. Bowl 2 – Whisk eggs with a splash of water.
  3. Bowl 3 – Add panko breadcrumbs.

3. Coat the Shrimp

• Dip each shrimp into the tapioca flour, then into the egg mixture, and finally coat it in panko breadcrumbs.
• Use one hand for wet ingredients and one for dry to keep things less messy.

Step 2: Air Fry the Shrimp

1. Preheat the Air Fryer

• Set your air fryer to 390°F (200°C) for 3-5 minutes.

2. Arrange the Shrimp

• Place breaded shrimp in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
• Lightly spray the shrimp with cooking spray for extra crispiness.

3. Cook the Shrimp

• Air fry for 7 minutes, flipping halfway through.
• After flipping, spray the other side with oil and return to the air fryer.
• The shrimp should be golden and crispy when done.

Step 3: Make the Bang Bang Sauce

• In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, and Sriracha.
• Taste and adjust spice level by adding more Sriracha if needed.

Step 4: Prepare the Slaw

• In a large bowl, combine coleslaw mix, cilantro, green onions, mayonnaise, lime juice, and Sriracha.
• Toss well and season with kosher salt to taste.

Step 5: Toss the Shrimp in Bang Bang Sauce

• Transfer cooked shrimp to a large bowl.
• Pour Bang Bang sauce over the shrimp (reserving some for garnish).
• Gently toss to coat each shrimp evenly.

Step 6: Assemble the Tacos

1. Warm the Tortillas

• Heat tortillas over an open flame, on a pan, or in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.

2. Build Your Tacos

• Layer the ingredients in this order:
  • Warm tortilla
  • A generous scoop of slaw
  • Crispy, Bang Bang sauce-coated shrimp
  • Drizzle with extra Bang Bang sauce
  • Garnish with chopped green onion

3. Serve Immediately

• Enjoy your Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos while they’re hot and crispy!

Tips for the Best Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos

• Don’t overcrowd the air fryer – Cook in batches for the crispiest shrimp.
• Use fresh shrimp – Fresh shrimp has better texture than frozen.
• Adjust the spice level – Add extra Sriracha for more heat.
• For a gluten-free version – Use corn tortillas and gluten-free breadcrumbs.
• Let the shrimp rest – Letting them sit for 1-2 minutes after cooking makes them even crispier.

What to Serve with Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos

• Cilantro Lime Rice – A fresh, zesty side.
• Black Beans – Adds protein and fiber.
• Avocado Salsa – A creamy, refreshing contrast.

How to Store & Reheat Leftovers

Storing:

• Store shrimp and slaw separately in airtight containers.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Reheating:

• Air Fryer: Reheat shrimp at 350°F (175°C) for 3 minutes.
• Oven: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 5 minutes.
• Microwave: Avoid microwaving as it softens the crispy coating.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this with frozen shrimp?

Yes! Just thaw and pat them dry before coating.

2. Can I bake the shrimp instead?

Yes! Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.

3. What tortillas work best?

Flour or corn tortillas both work well!

4. Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?

No, raw shrimp works best for breading and crispiness.

Final Thoughts: A Must-Try Crispy Shrimp Taco Recipe!

These Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are crispy, creamy, spicy, and utterly delicious. Try this easy and healthier version of a classic favorite and enjoy bold flavors in every bite!

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