Name: Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos Ready in 30 Minutes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Large Raw Shrimp (Jumbo shrimp for best texture and flavor); 1 cup Flour Mixture (Use gluten-free flour for an alternative); 1 large Egg (Consider a flax egg for a vegan option); 1 cup Panko Breadcrumbs (For crispy texture); 1 spray Avocado Oil or Olive Oil Spray (To achieve crispiness); 1/2 cup Mayonnaise (Mix with Greek yogurt for a lighter version); 2 tablespoons Sriracha (Adjust according to heat preference); 2 cups Green or Red Cabbage (Fresh and crunchy); Additional Slaw Ingredients (Mix in carrots or cilantro for extra flavor); 8 pieces Flour Tortillas (Substitute with corn tortillas for gluten-free)

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“Let’s Taco ‘Bout It!” As someone who adores Taco Tuesday, I can’t get enough of these healthy Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos. With crispy shrimp bursting with a creamy, spicy sauce, this dish transforms an evening into a lively fiesta in less than 30 minutes. Not only do these tacos offer a fun culinary twist inspired by the beloved Bonefish Grill, but they also bring wholesome ingredients to your table, making it a guilt-free indulgence. The fresh homemade slaw adds an irresistible crunch, while the soft tortillas serve as the perfect vessel for all that flavor. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or aiming to impress friends, these bang bang tacos are your go-to solution. Ready to dive into a delightful cooking adventure? Let’s get started!

Why Will You Love These Tacos?

Quick and Easy: These Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos come together in under 30 minutes, making them perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave something delicious.

Healthier Twist: Enjoy crispy, succulent shrimp without the guilt! The air fryer achieves that delightful crunch with less oil than traditional frying.

Flavor Explosion: The creamy bang bang sauce packs a spicy punch that lingers, elevating your taco game to a whole new level.

Customization Ready: With options to swap shrimp for chicken or tofu—this recipe easily caters to everyone’s tastes. Personalize your toppings with slices of avocado or fresh herbs for extra flair!

Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for Taco Night or serving guests, these tacos are sure to impress. For more tasty air fryer ideas, try Air Fryer Cauliflower Bites or Air Fryer Churro for a sweet finish.

Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos Ingredients

For the Shrimp
• Large Raw Shrimp – Choose jumbo shrimp for the best texture and flavor.
• Flour Mixture – A simple blend that coats the shrimp; use gluten-free flour for an alternative.
• Egg – Acts as a binder; consider a flax egg for a vegan option.
• Panko Breadcrumbs – Opt for panko to achieve that much-desired crispy texture.

For Cooking
• Avocado Oil or Olive Oil Spray – Ensures the shrimp helps become crispy and not stick in the air fryer.

For the Bang Bang Sauce
• Mayonnaise – Provides creaminess; mix with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
• Sriracha – Adds the signature spice; adjust according to your heat preference.

For the Slaw
• Green or Red Cabbage – Fresh and crunchy; either works for a vibrant touch.
• Additional Slaw Ingredients – Feel free to mix in carrots or cilantro for an extra flavor kick.

For Assembly
• Flour Tortillas – Soft and perfect for wrapping; substitute with corn tortillas for gluten-free tacos.

These Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos will undoubtedly bring a wave of flavor to your dinner table!

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

Step 1: Prep Shrimp
Begin by patting your large raw shrimp dry with paper towels, ensuring they’re moisture-free. Set up three shallow bowls: one filled with your flour mixture, the second with a beaten egg, and the third with panko breadcrumbs. This assembly line will make the coating process easy and efficient for your Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos.

Step 2: Coat Shrimp
Take each shrimp and first dip it in the flour mixture, ensuring it is well-coated. Next, move it to the egg bowl, allowing any excess to drip off, before finally coating it with panko breadcrumbs. Press gently to ensure each shrimp is evenly covered—this will create a crispy texture when air fried.

Step 3: Cook Shrimp
Preheat your air fryer to 390°F for about 5 minutes. Once hot, arrange the coated shrimp in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd them for optimal crispiness. Lightly spray them with avocado oil and cook for 7 minutes, flipping halfway through and spraying again for even crispiness.

Step 4: Prepare Slaw
While the shrimp cook, whip up your fresh slaw! In a bowl, combine shredded green or red cabbage with any desired ingredients for added flavor, such as lime juice or chopped cilantro. Mix thoroughly, allowing the flavors to meld together—this slaw will provide a refreshing crunch to your Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos.

Step 5: Assemble Tacos
Warm up your flour tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave for a few seconds to make them pliable. On each tortilla, layer a few crispy shrimp, followed by a generous scoop of your cabbage slaw. Drizzle with the spicy bang bang sauce, customizing the heat to your liking, and your Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are ready to serve!

Make Ahead Options

These Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can coat the shrimp and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking, just be sure to keep them covered tightly to maintain freshness. Preparing the slaw in advance is also a great time-saver—make it up to 3 days ahead and store it in an airtight container in the fridge to keep it crunchy. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply cook the shrimp in the air fryer as directed, assemble the tacos with the prepped slaw and bang bang sauce, and you’ll have a delicious, hassle-free dinner in no time!

Expert Tips for Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos

Crispiness Check: Ensure shrimp are dry before coating. Excess moisture can lead to soggy shrimp that won’t crisp up in the air fryer.
Don’t Overcrowd: Arrange shrimp in a single layer to promote even cooking and maximized crispiness—tight clusters can yield uneven results.
Bang Bang Sauce Balance: Adjust the sriracha in your bang bang sauce according to desired heat. Start small and add more gradually to find your perfect flavor.
Fresh Slaw Mix: Incorporate lime juice into the slaw for a zesty flavor boost. This complements the shrimp nicely and adds a refreshing crunch.
Tortilla Alternatives: For a gluten-free option, swap out flour tortillas for corn tortillas. They provide a delightful texture and are just as delicious for this taco recipe!
Extra Toppings: Consider adding fresh herbs or avocado slices to your tacos for added flavor and creaminess—perfect for customizing your Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos!

Storage Tips for Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos

Fridge: Store leftover shrimp and slaw separately in airtight containers for up to 2 days. This maintains their crispiness and freshness.

Freezer: For longer storage, place cooked shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.

Reheating: To restore the shrimp’s crispy texture, reheat in the air fryer at 390°F for about 5 minutes. Enjoy your flavorful Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos freshly warmed!

Assemble Later: If preparing ahead, store components separately and assemble tacos just before serving for the best taste and texture.

What to Serve with Healthy Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos

Savoring these vibrant tacos is just the beginning; discover delightful pairings to elevate your meal!

Crispy Cilantro Lime Rice: This zesty rice dish brings a bright, fluffy texture that complements the crunchy shrimp beautifully.
Fresh Guacamole: The creamy avocado dip adds richness and enhances the spicy bang bang sauce, creating a perfect balance of flavors.
Spicy Black Bean Soup: Serve this hearty soup as a side for added warmth and fiber, making your meal extra satisfying.
Chilled Corn Salad: A refreshing salad with sweet corn, cherry tomatoes, and lime dressing adds a crispy, bright contrast to the tacos.
Tangy Pickled Veggies: Add a burst of acidity with pickled red onions or jalapeños; they brighten every bite and enhance the dish’s overall flavor.
Margaritas or Limeade: Quench your thirst with zesty margaritas or a refreshing limeade, both enhancing the festive mood of Taco Night.

Pair these suggestions with your Healthy Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos, and enjoy a wholesome, multi-textured dining experience!

Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos Variations

Feel free to get creative with these delightful tacos—there’s always room for personal flair!

Chicken Option: Swap shrimp for chicken strips for a heartier protein choice. The flavor will still shine with the bang bang sauce.
Tofu Twist: Use firm tofu, pressed and cubed, for a plant-based alternative. Coat like shrimp for a crispy, satisfying meal.
Dressing Delight: Instead of bang bang sauce, try a zesty cilantro-lime dressing for a fresh approach. It adds a bright flavor contrast!
Extra Veggies: Incorporate diced tomatoes or radishes for an added crunch and layers of flavor in your tacos.
Spicy Slaw: Kick up the heat by mixing sliced jalapeños into your slaw. The added heat will balance beautifully with the sauce.
Crunchy Topping: Top with crushed tortilla chips for an extra layer of texture and taste—every bite will be a fun adventure!
Corn Tortillas: Swap flour tortillas for corn tortillas for a gluten-free option. They hold up beautifully while adding a sweet flavor.

Now that you have these variations ready to go, don’t forget to check out other delicious dishes like Air Fryer Cauliflower Bites or indulge your sweet tooth with Air Fryer Churro. Enjoy!

Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos Recipe FAQs

What type of shrimp should I use for the recipe?
I recommend using large, raw shrimp for the best flavor and texture in your Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos. Look for shrimp that are firm to the touch and have a mild smell of the ocean. Fresh or frozen shrimp works well, but if using frozen, be sure to thaw them completely before cooking.

How should I store leftover Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos?
To keep your leftovers fresh, store the shrimp and slaw separately in airtight containers in the fridge. They can last up to 2 days. This method helps maintain the crispiness of the shrimp. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat the shrimp in the air fryer to restore that delightful crunch.

Can I freeze the cooked shrimp? If so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze your cooked shrimp, start by laying them out in a single layer on a baking sheet. Place them in the freezer for about 1 to 2 hours until they’re firm. Then, transfer the shrimp to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can last for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, just reheat them in the air fryer at 390°F for 5-7 minutes for the best results!

What if my shrimp doesn’t get crispy in the air fryer?
The key to achieving crispy shrimp lies in two main factors: proper preparation and air fryer technique. Make sure your shrimp are dry before coating; any moisture can lead to sogginess. Additionally, avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket, as this can inhibit airflow. Batch cooking may be necessary to ensure each shrimp is evenly cooked to perfection.

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
If you’re looking to customize your Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos for specific dietary needs, you can easily make substitutions! Use gluten-free flour and corn tortillas for those avoiding gluten, and try a flax egg instead of a traditional egg for a vegan alternative. If you’re sensitive to shellfish or have allergies, consider substituting the shrimp with chicken strips or tofu for a delicious, protein-rich alternative.