Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos: A Crispy, Spicy, Irresistible Recipe

If you’re a fan of Bonefish Grill’s famous Bang Bang Shrimp, you’re going to love this Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos recipe! This dish takes all the bold, creamy, and spicy flavors of the original and transforms them into a healthier, easy-to-make taco version. Perfect for weeknight dinners, Taco Tuesdays, or entertaining guests, these tacos are ready in under 30 minutes and pack a serious flavor punch.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through:
✅ Step-by-step instructions for perfectly crispy air-fried shrimp
✅ How to make the best Bang Bang sauce (creamy, sweet, and spicy!)
✅ A quick and refreshing slaw to balance the heat
✅ Tips for serving and customizing your tacos
✅ Nutritional benefits of air frying vs. deep frying

By the end, you’ll have everything you need to make restaurant-quality Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos at home—without the extra oil and calories!

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Why You’ll Love These Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos

✔ Healthier than deep-fried shrimp – The air fryer gives the shrimp an ultra-crispy texture with minimal oil.
✔ Explosion of flavors – The creamy, spicy Bang Bang sauce pairs perfectly with the crunchy shrimp and fresh slaw.
✔ Quick & easy – Ready in 22 minutes (including prep time!).
✔ Versatile – Serve as tacos, in a bowl, or even as an appetizer.
✔ Meal prep friendly – The shrimp and slaw can be made ahead for easy assembly.

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Ingredients for Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos

For the Air Fryer Shrimp

• 1 lb large raw shrimp (peeled, deveined, tail-off)

• 2 large eggs (for the egg wash)

• 1.5 cups panko breadcrumbs (Japanese-style for extra crispiness)

• ½ cup tapioca flour (or arrowroot starch/cornstarch)

• ½ tsp paprika

• ½ tsp garlic powder

• ¼ tsp onion powder

• Kosher salt & black pepper (to taste)

• Cooking spray (avocado or olive oil spray works best)

For the Bang Bang Sauce

• ½ cup mayonnaise

• ¼ cup Thai sweet chili sauce

• 1 tsp sriracha (adjust for spice level)

For the Slaw

• 8 oz coleslaw mix (shredded cabbage & carrots)

• ¼ cup chopped cilantro

• ¼ cup chopped green onion

• 2 tbsp mayonnaise

• Juice from ½ lime

• Squirt of sriracha (optional)

• Kosher salt (to taste)

To Serve

• 10 flour tortillas (or corn tortillas for gluten-free)

• Chopped green onion (for garnish)

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Step-by-Step Instructions for Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos

Step 1: Prep the Shrimp

1. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to ensure maximum crispiness.

2. Set up a dredging station with three shallow bowls:

   • Bowl 1: Tapioca flour + paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt & pepper.

   • Bowl 2: Beaten eggs + a splash of water.

   • Bowl 3: Panko breadcrumbs.

Step 2: Bread the Shrimp

1. Dip each shrimp in the tapioca flour (shake off excess).

2. Coat in egg wash, letting excess drip off.

3. Press into panko to fully coat.

4. Place in the air fryer basket in a single layer (don’t overcrowd).

5. Lightly spray with oil to help crispiness.

Step 3: Air Fry the Shrimp

1. Cook at 390°F for 7 minutes, flipping halfway.

2. Spray the other side with oil when flipping.

3. Repeat in batches if needed.

Step 4: Make the Bang Bang Sauce

• In a bowl, whisk together:

  • Mayonnaise

  • Thai sweet chili sauce

  • Sriracha (add more if you like it spicier)

Step 5: Toss the Shrimp in Sauce

• Add cooked shrimp to a large bowl and drizzle with Bang Bang sauce.

• Gently toss to coat (save some sauce for drizzling).

Step 6: Prepare the Slaw

• In a bowl, mix:

  • Coleslaw mix

  • Cilantro & green onion

  • Mayonnaise, lime juice, sriracha, salt

Step 7: Assemble the Tacos

1. Warm tortillas (over a flame, in a pan, or microwave).

2. Layer slaw, shrimp, extra sauce, and green onions.

3. Serve immediately while crispy!

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Tips for the Best Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos

🔥 For extra crispy shrimp:

• Use Japanese panko (finer texture = better crunch).

• Don’t skip the oil spray—it helps the breading crisp up.

🌶️ Adjust the spice level:

• Add more sriracha to the sauce for extra heat.

• Top with pickled jalapeños for a tangy kick.

🥬 Make it healthier:

• Use Greek yogurt instead of mayo in the sauce.

• Swap flour tortillas for lettuce wraps or corn tortillas.

⏳ Meal prep tips:

• Bread shrimp ahead and refrigerate (cook when ready).

• Make slaw & sauce 1-2 days in advance.

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The Secret to Perfectly Crispy Air Fryer Shrimp

When it comes to making Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos, the key to success lies in achieving perfectly crispy shrimp without deep frying. The air fryer is a game-changer—it delivers that satisfying crunch with minimal oil, making this dish healthier than traditional fried versions. Here’s how to ensure your shrimp come out golden, crispy, and delicious every time.

Why Air Frying Works Best for Shrimp

Shrimp cooks quickly, and the air fryer’s rapid hot air circulation ensures even crisping without overcooking. Unlike deep frying, which requires submerging in oil, air frying uses just a light spritz of oil to get that golden-brown texture. Benefits include:

✅ Less greasy – No heavy oil absorption.
✅ Faster cooking – Ready in 7 minutes per batch.
✅ Healthier – Cuts down on calories while keeping flavor.

Choosing the Right Shrimp

For the best results:

• Size matters: Use large shrimp (26/30 count)—they hold up better to breading.

• Prep properly: Peeled, deveined, and tail-off for easy eating.

• Pat them dry: Excess moisture prevents crispiness—use paper towels.

The Best Breading Technique

The three-step breading process (flour → egg → panko) is crucial for a crispy, crunchy coating:

1. Tapioca flour (or cornstarch) – Creates a light, crispy base.

2. Egg wash – Helps the panko adhere.

3. Panko breadcrumbs – Japanese-style panko is lighter and crispier than regular breadcrumbs.

Pro Tip:

• Use one hand for wet ingredients (egg) and one for dry (flour & panko) to avoid clumpy fingers.

• Press the panko gently to ensure full coverage.

Air Frying for Maximum Crispiness

• Preheat the air fryer (optional but helps with even cooking).

• Don’t overcrowd – Cook in single-layer batches for best airflow.

• Spray with oil – A light coating ensures golden crispiness.

• Flip halfway (at the 3.5-minute mark) for even browning.

Common Mistakes to Avoid:
❌ Skipping the oil spray → Shrimp won’t crisp up.
❌ Overcrowding → Steamy, soggy shrimp.
❌ Overcooking → Shrimp turns rubbery (stick to 7 minutes max).

How to Keep Shrimp Crispy After Cooking

• Serve immediately – They lose crispiness if left sitting.

• Place on a wire rack instead of a plate to prevent sogginess.

• Reheat in the air fryer (not microwave) if needed.

By following these steps, your Bang Bang Shrimp will have the perfect crunch—ideal for tacos, salads, or even as an appetizer!

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 The Ultimate Bang Bang Sauce – Creamy, Spicy & Irresistible

No Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are complete without the signature sauce—a creamy, sweet, and spicy blend that takes this dish to the next level. This 3-ingredient sauce is incredibly easy to make and pairs perfectly with crispy shrimp, slaw, and tortillas. Here’s everything you need to know about making (and customizing) the best Bang Bang sauce.

What is Bang Bang Sauce?

Originating from Bonefish Grill’s famous appetizer, Bang Bang Sauce is a creamy, slightly sweet, and spicy condiment. The name comes from the “bang bang” of flavors—hitting you with sweetness, tang, and heat all at once.

The 3 Key Ingredients

1. Mayonnaise – The creamy base (use Kewpie mayo for extra richness).

2. Thai sweet chili sauce – Adds sweetness and mild spice.

3. Sriracha – Brings the heat (adjust to taste).

Ratio Tip:

• Start with ½ cup mayo, ¼ cup sweet chili sauce, 1 tsp sriracha.

• Adjust for more heat (extra sriracha) or sweetness (more chili sauce).

How to Make the Perfect Bang Bang Sauce

1. Whisk all ingredients in a bowl until smooth.

2. Taste and adjust – Need more kick? Add sriracha. Too spicy? Add mayo.

3. Let it sit – 10 minutes allows flavors to meld.

Pro Tip:

• For a lighter version, swap mayo with Greek yogurt or light mayo.

• Add a squeeze of lime for extra tang.

Creative Variations

🔥 Spicy Lovers:

• Add gochujang (Korean chili paste) for depth.

• Mix in minced garlic for a punch.

🍯 Sweet & Tangy Twist:

• A drizzle of honey balances heat.

• Rice vinegar adds brightness.

🌿 Herb-Infused:

• Stir in chopped cilantro or green onions.

How to Use Bang Bang Sauce Beyond Tacos

This sauce is versatile! Try it with:

• Dipping sauce for fried chicken or egg rolls.

• Drizzle over grilled salmon or cauliflower.

• Burger spread (elevates any sandwich).

Storing & Make-Ahead Tips

• Fridge: Keeps for up to 1 week in an airtight container.

• Meal prep: Make a double batch for quick meals.

With this easy, flavorful sauce, your Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos will taste just like (or better than!) the restaurant version.

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The Best Slaw for Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos – Fresh, Crunchy & Balanced

A great taco isn’t just about the protein—it’s all about texture and balance. The slaw in these Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos adds a refreshing crunch, cutting through the richness of the sauce and shrimp. Here’s how to make the perfect slaw—quick, easy, and packed with flavor.

Why Slaw is Essential for These Tacos

✔ Textural contrast – Crunchy slaw vs. crispy shrimp.
✔ Balances richness – The tangy lime cuts through creamy sauce.
✔ Adds freshness – Cilantro and green onion brighten each bite.

The Simplest Slaw Recipe

Ingredients:

• 8 oz coleslaw mix (shredded cabbage & carrots)

• ¼ cup chopped cilantro

• ¼ cup chopped green onion

• 2 tbsp mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt)

• Juice of ½ lime

• Squirt of sriracha (optional)

• Salt to taste

Steps:

1. Toss everything together in a large bowl.

2. Let sit 5-10 minutes – Softens cabbage slightly.

3. Adjust seasoning – More lime? More salt?

Pro Tip:

• Massage the slaw with your hands to soften cabbage faster.

• Add shredded purple cabbage for color.

Customizing Your Slaw

🌶️ Spicy Version:

• Extra sriracha or diced jalapeños.

🍋 Extra Tangy:

• Add apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar.

🥑 Creamier Slaw:

• Increase mayo or add avocado crema.

Make-Ahead & Storage Tips

• Fridge: Stays crisp for up to 2 days (add lime juice fresh).

• Meal prep: Mix dry ingredients ahead, add dressing before serving.

Alternative Slaw Ideas

• Mango Slaw – Add diced mango for sweetness.

• Avocado Lime Slaw – Mash avocado into dressing.

• Kimchi Slaw – Spicy, fermented kick.

Why Air Frying is Better Than Deep Frying

✅ Uses 80% less oil (healthier, fewer calories).
✅ Same crispy texture without the greasiness.
✅ Faster cooking time (no waiting for oil to heat).
✅ Easy cleanup (no messy oil disposal).

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Serving Suggestions & Variations

🌮 Taco Bar Idea: Set out toppings like:

• Avocado slices

• Cotija cheese

• Pickled red onions

• Lime wedges

🍽️ Alternative Ways to Serve:

• Bang Bang Shrimp Bowl (over rice with slaw & sauce).

• Appetizer-style (serve with toothpicks & extra sauce).

• Burrito version (wrap in a large tortilla with rice & beans).

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use frozen shrimp?
A: Yes! Thaw completely and pat dry before breading.

Q: What if I don’t have an air fryer?
A: Bake at 400°F for 12-15 mins (flip halfway) or pan-fry in oil.

Q: Can I make this gluten-free?
A: Yes! Use gluten-free panko and corn tortillas.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store components separately—reheat shrimp in the air fryer to keep crispy.

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Final Thoughts: A Must-Try Recipe!

These Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are a game-changer—crispy, saucy, and packed with flavor, all while being healthier than the restaurant version. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just craving something delicious, this recipe delivers every time.