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Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp With Spicy Mayo – Crispy, Creamy, and Fast

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound raw shrimp, peeled and deveined (medium or large; tails on or off)
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional for color)
  • 1/2 cup cornstarch (for a light, crunchy coating)
  • 1 tablespoon neutral oil (avocado, canola, or grapeseed), plus spray for the basket
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise (use light mayo if preferred)
  • 3 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
  • 1–2 teaspoons sriracha (adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon rice vinegar (or lime juice)
  • 1 teaspoon honey (optional, for balance)
  • Pinch of salt
  • Lime wedges
  • Sliced green onions or chopped cilantro
  • Sesame seeds (optional)
  • Shredded cabbage or lettuce for a bed or tacos

Method
 

  1. Prep the shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. Dry shrimp get crispier. Toss with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
  2. Coat with cornstarch: Add cornstarch to a bowl. Dredge the seasoned shrimp, shaking off excess. A thin, even layer is best.
  3. Preheat the air fryer: Heat to 400°F (200°C) for 3–5 minutes. Lightly spray the basket with oil to prevent sticking.
  4. Arrange and oil: Place shrimp in a single layer without crowding. Drizzle or mist lightly with the neutral oil for even browning.
  5. Air fry: Cook for 6–8 minutes, flipping halfway. Shrimp are done when curled, opaque, and lightly golden with crisp edges.
  6. Make the sauce: While shrimp cook, whisk mayo, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, rice vinegar, honey, and a pinch of salt until smooth.
  7. Toss smart: Transfer hot shrimp to a bowl. Add half the sauce and toss to coat. This keeps them saucy without losing crunch.
  8. Plate and finish: Serve over cabbage or rice, or tuck into tortillas. Drizzle with extra sauce. Top with green onions, cilantro, and sesame seeds. Add a squeeze of lime.