Name: Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 7 min
Total time: 22 min
Ingredients: 1 lb large raw shrimp (peeled, deveined & tail-off); 2 large eggs; 1.5 cups panko breadcrumbs (preferably Japanese-style); 0.5 cup tapioca flour (or arrowroot starch or cornstarch); 0.5 tsp paprika; 0.5 tsp garlic powder; 0.25 tsp onion powder; kosher salt & black pepper; cooking spray; 0.5 cup mayonnaise; 0.25 cup thai sweet chili sauce; 1 tsp sriracha (more if you like it spicier); 8 oz coleslaw mix; 0.25 cup chopped cilantro; 0.25 cup chopped green onion; 2 tbsp mayonnaise; juice from ½ lime; squirt of sriracha; kosher salt (to taste); 10 flour tortillas; chopped green onion

Introduction to Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos

If you’re looking for a fun and delicious twist on taco night, look no further than Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos! Inspired by the beloved dish from Bonefish Grill, this version brings all the zesty flavors to your kitchen while keeping things light and crispy. In under 30 minutes, you can serve up these tantalizing tacos, making them perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with friends.

Why Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos?
Using an air fryer means you can achieve that satisfying crunch without the excess oil found in traditional frying. This method not only cuts down on calories but also retains the shrimp's natural flavor. Did you know that air frying can reduce fat content by up to 80% compared to deep frying? According to a study, this healthier cooking option is gaining popularity among health-conscious foodies.

Pair the shrimp with a refreshing homemade slaw and warm flour tortillas, and you have a meal that's as vibrant as it is satisfying. Ready to impress your taste buds? Let’s dive into the recipe and make your next taco night unforgettable!

Ingredients for Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos

When you're ready to whip up some delicious air fryer bang bang shrimp tacos, you'll need a few key ingredients to create that mouthwatering experience. Let's break it down!

For the Air Fryer Shrimp

1 lb large raw shrimp, peeled, deveined, and tail-off
2 large eggs
1.5 cups panko breadcrumbs (Japanese-style preferred for extra crunch)
½ cup tapioca flour (or arrowroot starch/cornstarch)
½ teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon onion powder
Kosher salt & black pepper to taste
Cooking spray

For the Bang Bang Sauce

½ cup mayonnaise
¼ cup Thai sweet chili sauce
1 teaspoon sriracha (add more if you like it spicy!)

For the Slaw

8 oz coleslaw mix
¼ cup chopped cilantro
¼ cup chopped green onion
2 tablespoon mayonnaise
Juice from ½ lime
Squeeze of sriracha
Kosher salt to taste

To Serve

10 flour tortillas
Chopped green onion for garnish

Gather these ingredients, and you'll be on your way to a delightful taco night! If you're interested in tweaking the recipe, consider checking out these cooking tips for more inspiration.

Step-by-Step Preparation of Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos

Creating these delightful air fryer bang bang shrimp tacos is a breeze! Let’s break it down into simple, manageable steps.

Prepare the Shrimp and Dredging Station

To start, you’ll want to get your shrimp ready. Take 1 pound of large raw shrimp, ensure they are peeled, deveined, and have the tails removed. After rinsing them, pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture—this will help them crisp up perfectly in the air fryer! Next, set up your dredging station using three shallow bowls. In one bowl, mix ½ cup tapioca flour with seasonings like paprika, garlic powder, and a pinch of kosher salt and black pepper. The second bowl should contain 1.5 cups of panko breadcrumbs, and the third bowl will have 2 large eggs whisked together with a splash of water.

Coat the Shrimp

Now, it’s time to coat the shrimp! Dip each shrimp into the tapioca flour first, then into the egg mixture, and finally coat it well with the panko breadcrumbs. Using one hand for the wet ingredients and the other for the dry will keep things less messy. Place each breaded shrimp in the air fryer basket, giving them a little space and a touch of cooking spray on top to help them crisp up.

Air Fry the Shrimp

Set your air fryer to 390°F and let the shrimp cook for about 7 minutes. Don’t forget to flip them halfway through the cooking time, and give the other side a quick spray with oil for even crispiness. If you have a lot of shrimp, you might need to cook them in batches.

Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce

While the shrimp is coming to life in the air fryer, let’s whip up the bang bang sauce. In a medium bowl, combine ½ cup mayonnaise, ¼ cup Thai sweet chili sauce, and 1 teaspoon sriracha. Whisk until smooth and creamy. This sauce will add that signature kick to your tacos!

Make the Slaw

In another large bowl, toss together 8 ounces of coleslaw mix, ¼ cup chopped cilantro, and ¼ cup chopped green onion. Mix in 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise, the juice of ½ lime, a squirt of sriracha, and season with kosher salt. This slaw will add a refreshing crunch to balance the spicy shrimp.

Assemble the Tacos

Once everything is ready, warm up 10 flour tortillas briefly on a pan or in the microwave. Now, it’s the fun part—assembling your air fryer bang bang shrimp tacos! Start with a tortilla, add a generous helping of slaw, then top it with crispy shrimp. Drizzle a bit more of that luscious bang bang sauce over the top and finish with some sliced green onion. Enjoy your delicious creation that packs a flavor punch!

Ready to dig in?

These tacos are not just a meal; they’re an experience that’ll impress friends and family alike! Don’t forget to check out more tips on making the perfect taco here as you enjoy your latest culinary adventure!

Variations on Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos

Tacos with Different Proteins

Switching up the protein in your air fryer bang bang shrimp tacos can completely change the vibe! How about using chicken for a leaner option? Simply season and cook the diced chicken in the air fryer until crispy. For those craving something unique, try turkey bacon or beef — both add a delicious twist. You could also experiment with fish, such as white fish fillets or salmon, which pair beautifully with the bang bang sauce.

Vegetarian Options

Don’t worry, veggie lovers — there’s a delicious route for you, too! Consider using crispy battered cauliflower or tofu as your base. These options soak up the bang bang sauce flavors perfectly, offering a satisfying crunch. Topping your vegetarian tacos with roasted bell peppers and a squeeze of lime adds freshness and zest. The versatility allows everyone to enjoy these air fryer bang bang shrimp tacos, regardless of dietary preferences.

Cooking Tips and Notes for Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos

Perfecting the Shrimp

To get that crispy perfection for your air fryer bang bang shrimp tacos, make sure to pat the shrimp dry before breading. This simple step helps the coating adhere better and achieve a crunchier texture. Using Japanese-style panko breadcrumbs adds that delightful crispness, so keep an eye out for them!

Tips for Flavorful Slaw

Brighten up your tacos with a tangy slaw! Use fresh ingredients like cilantro and green onion for an aromatic lift. For extra zing, consider adding a splash of apple cider vinegar or experimenting with different citrus juices—like orange or grapefruit—for a refreshing twist. Remember, a delicious slaw can turn an ordinary taco into a culinary masterpiece!

Serving Suggestions for Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos

Pairing with Sides

To make your air fryer bang bang shrimp tacos a complete meal, consider pairing them with delicious sides. Some great options include:

Cilantro Lime Rice: This simple rice dish can add a zesty flair.
Black Beans: Serve them warm for extra protein.
Grilled Corn on the Cob: Brush with butter or a spicy sauce for a dynamic side.

Garnishing Ideas

Don’t forget the garnishes! Here are some ideas to take your tacos to the next level:

Sliced Avocado: Creamy and rich, avocado complements the spicy shrimp beautifully.
Fresh Lime Wedges: A squeeze of lime adds brightness and balances the flavors.
Hot Sauce: For added heat, drizzle your favorite hot sauce on top just before serving.

These simple additions will enhance your dining experience and leave everyone asking for seconds!

Time Breakdown for Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos

Preparation Time

Getting those air fryer bang bang shrimp tacos ready is a breeze—just 15 minutes for prep! You can easily multitask while you chop and toss the slaw, making the most of your time in the kitchen.

Cooking Time

Once you’re prepped, cooking the shrimp in the air fryer takes only 7 minutes. That's right! In under a half hour, you'll have flavorful, crispy shrimp ready to be dressed in that zesty bang bang sauce.

Total Time

From start to finish, you’ll be savoring your delicious air fryer bang bang shrimp tacos in just 22 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun gathering with friends!

For a more in-depth look at air frying techniques, check out this comprehensive guide from Serious Eats to level up your cooking skills!

Nutritional Facts for Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos

Understanding the nutritional content of your food can help you make informed choices, especially when enjoying air fryer bang bang shrimp tacos! Here’s a quick breakdown:

Calories

Each taco packs about 367 calories, making it a satisfying option without going overboard.

Protein

You'll get around 13 grams of protein per taco, thanks to the shrimp, which helps keep you feeling full and energized.

Sodium

Keep in mind that these tacos contain approximately 523 mg of sodium each, so consider pairing them with fresh veggies or a light salsa to balance the flavor.

For more nutritional insights, you might want to check out resources from the USDA here or explore healthy cooking tips on sites like Healthline.

FAQs about Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos

What can I substitute for shrimp?

If you’re looking for alternatives to shrimp in these Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos, consider using chicken, tofu, or even cauliflower for a plant-based option. Each substitution will alter the flavor and texture, but they can still be delicious! For chicken, use similar-sized pieces so they cook evenly, and for tofu, opt for firm tofu that's been pressed to eliminate excess moisture.

How can I make the tacos spicier?

To amp up the heat of your Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos, simply add more sriracha to the bang bang sauce. You can also sprinkle in some cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for an extra kick. If you prefer fresh heat, try topping the tacos with sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce before serving.

Can I make these tacos in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the shrimp and slaw ahead of time, storing them separately in the fridge. Just reheat the shrimp in the air fryer for a few minutes to get them crispy again. Assemble the tacos right before serving for the best flavor and texture. For tips on meal prep, check out this article for inspiration!

Conclusion on Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos

These air fryer bang bang shrimp tacos are a delightful fusion of flavors that bring a restaurant favorite into your home kitchen in a healthier way. Bursting with taste and made in under 30 minutes, they make for the perfect easy weeknight dinner. Enjoy every delicious bite!