Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are a perfect blend of crispy shrimp and fresh toppings, all wrapped in warm tortillas. They’re light yet satisfying, making them a fantastic choice for busy weeknight dinners. The sweet and spicy Bang Bang sauce adds an exciting twist that kids and adults will love alike!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This recipe is a breeze to whip up. You can have dinner on the table in no time, and it uses everyday ingredients you probably already have. The shrimp cook up crispy without all the oil, which is great for a healthier meal. Plus, it’s fun to put together! Kids will enjoy assembling their tacos just how they like them.
How to Make Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos
Making these tacos is simple! With a few steps, you’ll have perfectly cooked shrimp and a delicious slaw. The air fryer does most of the work, giving the shrimp that wonderful crunch. The Bang Bang sauce ties everything together, and before you know it, dinner is served!
What You Need
1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 cup flour
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 cup mayo
2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
1 tablespoon sriracha
Salt and pepper to taste
Tortillas
2 cups cabbage, shredded
1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
Lime wedges for serving
Step-by-Step
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- In one bowl, mix flour, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, prepare panko breadcrumbs.
- Dip shrimp in the flour, shaking off excess, then in the breadcrumbs to coat.
- Arrange shrimp in the air fryer basket in a single layer and lightly spray with cooking oil. Cook for 8-10 minutes until crispy.
- While shrimp is cooking, mix mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha in a bowl to create the Bang Bang sauce.
- In another bowl, combine shredded cabbage and cilantro.
- To assemble tacos, place cooked shrimp in tortillas, top with slaw, drizzle with Bang Bang sauce, and serve with lime wedges.
How to Serve Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos
These tacos shine as a fun family meal. Pair them with some fresh fruit or a simple garden salad for a balanced dinner. You can also serve extra Bang Bang sauce on the side for those who love a bit more kick. They’re perfect for Taco Tuesday or casual gatherings!
How to Store Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos
To keep leftovers fresh, store the shrimp and slaw separately in airtight containers. They will last in the refrigerator for about 2-3 days. You can reheat the shrimp in the air fryer for a few minutes until crispy again. Alternatively, you can enjoy the tacos cold; they’re still delicious!
Recipe Tips
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket; it helps everything cook evenly.
- Adjust the sriracha based on your family’s spice tolerance.
- Try to use fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture.
- If you have leftover sauce, it’s great on sandwiches or as a dip.
- Mix in some chopped tomatoes or avocado for extra flavor and freshness.
Variations & Swaps
- Swap shrimp for cooked chicken or tofu for a different protein.
- Instead of regular mayo, you can use Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
- Add some diced mango or pineapple to the slaw for a tropical twist.
FAQs
Can I make the Bang Bang sauce ahead of time?
Yes! You can mix the sauce and store it in the refrigerator for a day or two ahead of time. It will save you some time when making dinner. Just give it a good stir before using.
Can I freeze the cooked shrimp?
Freezing cooked shrimp is possible, but they may lose some of their crispness when reheated. If you do freeze, use an airtight container and consume within a month for the best flavor.
How can I reheat the leftovers?
To reheat, place the shrimp in the air fryer for a few minutes until they’re hot and crispy again. You can also use the oven but avoid the microwave as it can make them soggy.
What can I serve with these tacos?
These tacos are great with a side of chips and salsa, a fresh salad, or some rice. Anything light and fresh will complement them nicely.
What mistakes should I avoid when making these tacos?
Be careful not to overcook the shrimp in the air fryer; they should be perfectly crispy but still tender. Also, ensure not to skip the coating in flour and breadcrumbs; this is key for that crunchy texture!
Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos
Ingredients
For the Shrimp
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined Use fresh shrimp for best flavor.
- 1 cup flour
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil For spraying the shrimp.
- Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper
For the Bang Bang Sauce
- 1/2 cup mayo Can substitute with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
- 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha Adjust based on spice tolerance.
For the Tacos
- Tortillas Tortillas Use your preferred type of tortilla.
- 2 cups cabbage, shredded
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- Lime wedges for serving Lime wedges for serving
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- In one bowl, mix flour, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, prepare panko breadcrumbs.
- Dip shrimp in the flour, shaking off excess, then in the breadcrumbs to coat.
Cooking
- Arrange shrimp in the air fryer basket in a single layer and lightly spray with cooking oil.
- Cook for 8-10 minutes until crispy.
Assembly
- While shrimp is cooking, mix mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha in a bowl to create the Bang Bang sauce.
- In another bowl, combine shredded cabbage and cilantro.
- To assemble tacos, place cooked shrimp in tortillas, top with slaw, drizzle with Bang Bang sauce, and serve with lime wedges.
