Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are a fun, crispy, and spicy twist on a classic taco. The shrimp get extra crunch from the air fryer, and the bang bang sauce adds a creamy, tangy kick that keeps every bite exciting. Toss all that into a soft tortilla with fresh toppings, and you’ve got a meal that’s full of flavor and texture.
I love making these tacos because they’re quick, easy, and less messy than traditional fried shrimp. Using the air fryer means you don’t have to deal with hot oil splatters, and the shrimp still come out perfectly crispy. I always make a little extra bang bang sauce to drizzle on top because it’s just that good!
My favorite way to serve these is with a simple cabbage slaw and a squeeze of lime to brighten everything up. It’s the perfect balance between spicy, creamy, and fresh. These tacos have become a go-to for me when I want something tasty without spending hours in the kitchen — plus, they’re a hit at any casual get-together or taco night.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Medium shrimp work best for these tacos. If you prefer, you can swap them for small shrimp or even chopped cooked chicken for a different twist.
Panko Breadcrumbs: They give the shrimp that perfect crunch in the air fryer. If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes work too.
Bang Bang Sauce: Made with mayo and sweet chili sauce, it’s creamy and just the right amount of spicy. Greek yogurt can replace mayo for a lighter version. Adjust sriracha to control heat.
Tortillas: Soft corn tortillas give an authentic feel, but flour tortillas are great if you want something softer or easier to find.
Cabbage: Shredded purple cabbage adds crunch and color. Green cabbage or even thinly sliced lettuce will work if you don’t have purple on hand.
How Do I Get the Shrimp Extra Crispy in the Air Fryer?
To get that perfect crunch, coating and air frying are key. Here’s how I do it:
- Dry the shrimp well before coating. Remoisture causes sogginess.
- Use panko breadcrumbs for a light, crispy texture.
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F to help the coating crisp quickly.
- Arrange the shrimp in a single layer so air circulates properly. Avoid crowding.
- Flip halfway through cooking for even color and crunch all around.
Following these steps gives shrimp that light, golden crispiness without frying. It’s my favorite way to keep things crunchy but simple!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Air fryer – crisp shrimp quickly without messy frying.
- Mixing bowls – for coating shrimp and mixing the sauce.
- Whisk or fork – to blend the bang bang sauce smoothly.
- Tongs – easy and safe for flipping shrimp in the air fryer.
- Small spatula or spoon – to drizzle sauce on tacos carefully.
- Microwave-safe plate or skillet – to warm tortillas before serving.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap shrimp for crispy air-fried chicken bites for a different protein.
- Try pepper jack cheese for a little extra spicy kick melted over the shrimp.
- Add diced avocado or mango salsa for a fresh, creamy contrast.
- Use shredded green cabbage or add pickled jalapeños for tangy crunch.
Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 large egg
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp sweet chili sauce
- 1 tsp sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp honey or sugar (optional, for balance)
- 1 tsp lime juice
For the Tacos:
- 6 small corn or flour tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cheddar and/or Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 cup shredded purple cabbage
- Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
- Lime wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of preparation and about 10 minutes for air frying the shrimp. Allow a few extra minutes to warm the tortillas and assemble the tacos, so plan for roughly 30 minutes total to get everything ready and delicious.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey (if using), and lime juice. Taste and adjust the spiciness as you like. Set this sauce aside for later.
2. Coat the Shrimp:
In a shallow bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs, flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. In another bowl, beat the egg well. Dip each shrimp first into the egg, then dredge in the panko mixture until fully coated.
3. Air Fry the Shrimp:
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Lay the coated shrimp in a single layer inside the air fryer basket—avoid overcrowding. Cook for 7-9 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the shrimp turn golden brown and are nice and crispy.
4. Assemble the Tacos:
Warm the tortillas in a skillet or microwave until soft. Lay a small handful of shredded cabbage on each tortilla. Place the crispy shrimp evenly on top. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the hot shrimp so it melts slightly. Drizzle the bang bang sauce liberally on top and garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your tacos immediately with lime wedges on the side for a fresh squeeze of juice. Enjoy these crunchy, spicy, and creamy Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos fresh and delicious!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to thaw them completely in the fridge overnight or under cold running water, then pat dry before coating to ensure the breading sticks well and gets crispy.
Can I Make the Bang Bang Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! The sauce can be prepared a day ahead and stored in an airtight container in the fridge. Give it a quick stir before serving to keep the texture smooth and creamy.
How Should I Store and Reheat Leftovers?
Store leftover shrimp and sauce separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat shrimp in the air fryer at 375°F for 3-4 minutes to maintain crispiness, and drizzle with freshly warmed sauce before serving.
Can I Substitute the Cheese in the Tacos?
Definitely! Feel free to swap cheddar or Monterey Jack with pepper jack for extra spice, queso fresco for a traditional touch, or omit cheese altogether for a lighter taco.
