Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are a fantastic mix of crispy shrimp with a spicy, creamy bang bang sauce all wrapped up in soft tacos. The shrimp get perfectly crunchy in the air fryer, and the sauce brings that fun, tangy kick that makes this dish so lively and tasty.
I love making these tacos because they’re quick to put together and so satisfying. The air fryer makes the shrimp nice and crispy without all the oil, so it feels lighter but still super flavorful. I usually toss the shrimp in a little spice mix before cooking, which adds a nice touch of heat and depth. The bang bang sauce is my favorite part—I like to make it a little creamier and with just the right amount of spice for my taste.
For serving, I usually pile on some crunchy slaw and a squeeze of lime right on top. It adds a fresh crunch that balances out the creamy shrimp perfectly. These tacos are great for casual dinners or when friends come over because they’re easy to eat and always get rave reviews. I’ve noticed everyone loves them whether they’re shrimp fans or just love a good taco!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Medium shrimp work best for these tacos. You want them bite-sized but juicy. If you prefer a milder shellfish, try scallops or small chunks of firm white fish instead.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These give the shrimp a light, crispy crunch. If you don’t have panko, crushed cornflakes or regular breadcrumbs can work, but panko is my top choice for the best texture.
Spices (Garlic Powder, Smoked Paprika, Chili Powder): These add flavor and a subtle smoky heat. Feel free to adjust chili powder if you want less spice; cumin could be a tasty swap for a different flair.
Bang Bang Sauce: Mayonnaise and sweet chili sauce create the creamy and slightly sweet base. For a dairy-free option, swap mayo with vegan mayo. Adjust sriracha to control the heat.
Tortillas & Toppings: Use soft corn or flour tortillas, whichever you prefer. Shredded red cabbage adds crunchy freshness, and fresh lime gives a bright contrast. Cilantro and jalapeños add extra flavor and a hint of spice.
How Can I Get Perfectly Crispy Shrimp in the Air Fryer?
The key to crispy shrimp in the air fryer is coating and timing. Here’s what I do:
- Pat the shrimp dry before dredging – less moisture means crispier coating.
- Use the flour-egg-panko dredge method for a thick, crunchy crust.
- Spread shrimp in a single layer in the basket to prevent steaming.
- Cook at 400°F for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway for even crispness.
Tip: Don’t overcrowd the basket; cook in batches if needed. This keeps the shrimp crispy, not soggy. The result is shrimp with a crunchy outside and tender inside, perfect for tacos.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Air fryer – it crisps the shrimp perfectly without using much oil.
- Mixing bowls – for coating the shrimp and making the bang bang sauce easily.
- Whisk – helps blend the bang bang sauce smoothly.
- Tongs – great for flipping shrimp in the air fryer and assembling tacos.
- Small skillet or microwave-safe plate – to warm the tortillas before serving.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap shrimp for chicken strips for a different protein that still crisps well.
- Add sliced avocado or mango for creaminess and a fresh sweet twist.
- Use napa cabbage or shredded lettuce instead of red cabbage for a milder crunch.
- Mix in a pinch of cumin or smoked chipotle powder to the shrimp coating for extra smoky flavor.
How to Make Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Shrimp:
- 1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
For The Tacos:
- 8 small corn or flour tortillas
- 1 cup shredded red cabbage
- 1-2 green chilies or jalapeños, thinly sliced (for garnish)
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
- Lime wedges for serving
For The Bang Bang Sauce:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp sweet chili sauce
- 1 tbsp sriracha (adjust to taste for spice)
- 1 tsp lime juice
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cook, including shrimp coating and air frying. Warming the tortillas and mixing the sauce add just a few minutes more, so you’ll have your delicious tacos ready in under 20 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Coating for Shrimp:
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). In a shallow bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. In another bowl, beat the egg. Place the flour in a separate bowl. This setup helps with easy dipping and coating of the shrimp.
2. Coat the Shrimp:
Dip each shrimp first into the flour, shaking off any extra. Then dip it in the beaten egg, followed by coating evenly with the seasoned panko mixture. Ensure each shrimp is nicely covered for that perfect crunch.
3. Cook Shrimp in the Air Fryer:
Arrange the coated shrimp in a single layer inside the air fryer basket. Cook for 8–10 minutes, flipping the shrimp halfway through. You’ll know they’re ready when they turn golden and crispy.
4. Make the Bang Bang Sauce and Warm Tortillas:
While the shrimp cooks, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and lime juice until smooth. Warm your tortillas in a skillet or microwave so they’re soft and flexible for wrapping.
5. Assemble Your Tacos:
Place a layer of shredded red cabbage on each warm tortilla. Add crispy shrimp on top, then drizzle generously with the bang bang sauce. Garnish with sliced green chilies or jalapeños, and chopped cilantro if you like. Serve with lime wedges to squeeze over the top for an extra fresh zing.
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to fully thaw the shrimp before cooking. Thaw them overnight in the fridge or place them in a sealed bag submerged in cold water for quicker thawing. Pat them dry to ensure the coating sticks well and the shrimp gets crispy.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover shrimp and sauce separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat the shrimp gently in the air fryer for a few minutes to keep them crispy. Warm the tortillas fresh when ready to serve.
Can I Make the Bang Bang Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! The sauce can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge. Give it a quick stir before serving if the ingredients separate slightly.
What Other Toppings Can I Add to These Tacos?
Feel free to get creative! Avocado slices, diced mango, pickled red onions, or a sprinkle of queso fresco all complement the spicy shrimp perfectly.
