If you’re looking for a meal that’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor, these Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are just what you need. They deliver the perfect combination of crispy shrimp, creamy and spicy bang bang sauce, and fresh, crunchy toppings—all wrapped in a warm, soft tortilla. The contrast of textures and flavors makes every bite irresistible!

What’s even better? These tacos are made in the air fryer, which means you get all the crunch without the extra oil from deep frying. The result is perfectly crispy shrimp that are lighter, healthier, and just as delicious. Whether you’re making them for a busy weeknight dinner or serving them at a gathering, these tacos will disappear fast.

The first time I made these tacos, I was skeptical that the air fryer could really replicate the crispy perfection of deep-fried shrimp. But after that first bite, I was hooked. The shrimp turned out golden and crunchy, and when combined with the creamy, spicy bang bang sauce, it was absolute perfection. Since then, this recipe has become a staple in my home because it’s easy, quick, and bursting with flavor.

So, if you’re ready to make the most crispy, flavorful, and satisfying shrimp tacos, grab your air fryer and let’s get cooking!

What Makes These Tacos Special?

Healthier Alternative to Fried Shrimp – Air frying cuts down on oil while still giving you a crispy, golden coating.
Quick and Easy – Ready in about 30 minutes, making them perfect for busy nights.
Incredible Flavor – The combination of the crispy shrimp, creamy bang bang sauce, and fresh toppings makes every bite amazing.
Customizable – You can adjust the spice level, switch up the toppings, or even swap the shrimp for another protein.
Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether it’s a casual dinner, taco night, or a gathering with friends, these tacos are always a hit!

How Long Does It Take to Make These Tacos?

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4 (makes about 8 tacos)

Ingredients You’ll Need

The Shrimp:

1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
½ cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs, beaten
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper

The Bang Bang Sauce:

½ cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons sriracha
2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
1 tablespoon honey

The Tacos:

8 small flour or corn tortillas
1 cup shredded purple cabbage
½ cup shredded carrots
½ cup chopped fresh cilantro
1 avocado, sliced
Lime wedges for serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Shrimp

Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. This step is important to help the coating stick.
In a bowl, season the shrimp with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Toss to evenly coat.

2. Set Up the Coating Stations

In one bowl, add the all-purpose flour.
In a second bowl, beat the eggs until smooth.
In a third bowl, add the panko breadcrumbs.

3. Coat the Shrimp for Maximum Crispiness

Dredge each shrimp in the flour, making sure it’s lightly coated. Shake off any excess.
Dip the shrimp into the beaten eggs, letting the excess drip off.
Coat the shrimp in the panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently so the coating adheres.

4. Air Fry the Shrimp to Golden Perfection

Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3 minutes.
Arrange the shrimp in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they don’t overlap. If needed, cook in batches.
Lightly spray the shrimp with cooking spray to help them crisp up.
Air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.

5. Make the Bang Bang Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sriracha, sweet chili sauce, and honey until smooth.
Taste and adjust the spice level by adding more sriracha if you like it extra spicy.

6. Warm the Tortillas

Heat a dry skillet over medium heat and warm each tortilla for 10-15 seconds per side until soft and pliable.
Alternatively, you can warm them directly over a gas flame for a slight char.

7. Assemble the Tacos

Spread a spoonful of bang bang sauce on each tortilla.
Add a handful of shredded purple cabbage and carrots for crunch.
Place 3-4 crispy shrimp on top.
Add avocado slices and sprinkle with fresh cilantro.
Drizzle with extra bang bang sauce and serve with lime wedges on the side.

Tips for the Best Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos

Use Fresh Shrimp – If using frozen shrimp, make sure to fully thaw and pat them dry before coating.
Don’t Overcrowd the Air Fryer – Cook in batches so each shrimp gets evenly crispy.
Double-Coat for Extra Crunch – For a thicker crust, repeat the egg and panko coating step before air frying.
Make It Lighter – Swap mayonnaise in the sauce for Greek yogurt for a healthier option.
Want More Heat? – Add extra sriracha or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce.

What to Serve with Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos

These tacos are amazing on their own, but they pair perfectly with:

Cilantro Lime Rice – A light, refreshing side that balances the spice.
Mexican Street Corn – Sweet, smoky, and creamy corn on the cob.
Guacamole & Chips – Because you can never go wrong with extra avocado!
Margaritas or Fresh Limeade – A refreshing drink to cool down the spice.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before seasoning and coating.

2. Can I bake the shrimp instead of air frying?

Absolutely! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.

3. How can I make these tacos gluten-free?

Use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs and swap the flour tortillas for corn tortillas.

4. How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Store leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 3-4 minutes to keep them crispy. Avoid microwaving, as it will make them soggy.

5. Can I make the bang bang sauce ahead of time?

Yes! You can make the sauce up to 3 days in advance and store it in the fridge. Just give it a good stir before using.

6. What can I serve with these tacos?

Try them with cilantro lime rice, grilled corn, or a fresh side salad for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts – A Must-Try Air Fryer Recipe

These Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are the perfect mix of crispy, creamy, spicy, and fresh. Whether you’re making them for a casual dinner, a fun taco night, or a special gathering, they’re guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. The air fryer makes the shrimp perfectly crunchy without the extra oil, and the bang bang sauce ties everything together with the perfect amount of heat and sweetness.

If you’ve been looking for a quick, easy, and absolutely delicious taco recipe, this is it! Try them out, and don’t forget to drizzle on extra bang bang sauce for the ultimate bite. Let me know how you liked them—happy cooking!