Bang Bang Shrimp Spicy Crispy

Bang Bang Shrimp is the answer when you want something deliciously crispy with a bold kick that still comes together in under half an hour. This recipe is perfect for weeknights or gatherings because you get restaurant-level flavor with just a few pantry ingredients. The sauce hits all the right notes of sweet spice and tang while the shrimp stays juicy inside a crackling crust.

I started making Bang Bang Shrimp for game nights and now it is the most requested dish at birthday parties Everyone always gathers around the platter and the bowl empties in minutes

Ingredients

• Large shrimp: peeled and deveined fresh or frozen both work but bigger shrimp offer a juicier bite
• All-purpose flour: gives structure and crunch try to use unbleached for best flavor
• Cornstarch: creates that shatteringly crisp coating look for the pure kind with no additives
• Garlic powder: brings a robust savory background organic is best if you can swing it
• Onion powder: layers in extra flavor the fresher the powder the more punch
• Paprika: lends color and subtle warmth smoked or sweet both are great here
• Salt and pepper: round everything out use kosher salt for even seasoning
• Egg: holds the breading to the shrimp farm-fresh eggs give a richer taste
• Buttermilk: tenderizes and adds tanginess if unavailable use regular milk and a squeeze of lemon juice
• Vegetable oil: neutral flavor maintains crispiness make sure it is fresh for best results
• Mayonnaise: forms the creamy base for the sauce full-fat keeps the sauce rich
• Sweet chili sauce: delivers sweet heat look for Thai brands for the brightest flavor
• Sriracha: brings the perfect amount of punch start small and adjust to taste
• Honey: is optional but adds a touch of glossy sweetness use local honey for more complexity
• Rice vinegar: is optional but gives lovely acidity avoid seasoned for pure flavor
• Green onions for garnish: add freshness chose firm stalks with bright green tops
• Sesame seeds: give nutty crunch toast them lightly for best flavor
• Lime wedges: add a pop of citrus only use juicy limes with thin skin

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Shrimp:

Whisk the flour cornstarch garlic powder onion powder paprika salt and pepper together until well combined in one bowl In a second bowl whisk the egg and buttermilk together Submerge each shrimp first in the egg mixture which helps the coating stick then press each one into the flour mixture Make sure every shrimp is fully covered for a crisp even crust Set them aside in a single layer to avoid sticking

Fry the Shrimp:

Pour enough vegetable oil into a deep skillet to reach about two inches up the sides Place your pan over medium-high heat and give it a few minutes to come up to temperature The oil should be shimmering and register about 350 degrees on a thermometer Working in small batches gently lower the coated shrimp into the oil Fry for two to three minutes on each side until they are golden and crunchy Avoid crowding to keep your oil temperature steady Transfer fried shrimp to a paper towel lined plate to drain

Make the Bang Bang Sauce:

Combine mayonnaise sweet chili sauce sriracha and honey if using in a small mixing bowl Stir until the sauce is absolutely smooth Taste and decide if you want more heat or sweetness Add rice vinegar if you want extra tang A little goes a long way

Toss the Shrimp:

Place all the hot crispy shrimp into a big bowl Pour your Bang Bang sauce over the top Use a large spoon to gently turn the shrimp making sure every piece glistens with creamy spicy sauce

Serve:

Pile the sauced shrimp onto a plate Sprinkle with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for color and crunch Squeeze fresh lime over the top right before serving Serve as is over rice or tuck into tortillas for fun tacos

Pin it

The sweet chili sauce is what steals the show for me It adds perfect balance I remember serving this to my cousins at a family picnic and even the picky eaters cleaned their plates No leftovers ever

Storage Tips

Bang Bang Shrimp is at its best fresh out of the pan If you do have leftovers let them cool and then place in an airtight container Store in the fridge for up to two days Reheat in a hot oven or air fryer to keep them crispy Microwaving will make the coating soggy so skip it if you want to preserve the crunch

Ingredient Substitutions

If you are out of buttermilk mix regular milk with a splash of lemon juice or vinegar and let it sit for five minutes No sweet chili sauce Try mixing a little hot sauce with honey for a quick substitute Gluten free flour and cornstarch can be used for a gluten free version And if you dislike shrimp cut chicken breast into bite-sized pieces and coat and cook the same way

Serving Suggestions

These shrimp are fantastic as a party starter or tailgate snack For a full meal serve them over jasmine rice or tucked into slider buns with lettuce They are also amazing on top of crunchy salads for a light lunch My family loves piling them onto flour tortillas with coleslaw and avocado slices

Cultural Roots

Bang Bang Shrimp was inspired by American fusion cooking with Thai influences The sauce is a playful twist on spicy mayo and sweet chili dips you find at Asian restaurants It has become a signature appetizer at many chain spots but nothing beats homemade freshness

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I get shrimp extra crispy?

Coat the shrimp evenly in flour and cornstarch, fry in hot oil at 350°F, and avoid overcrowding the pan for maximum crispiness.

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just ensure the shrimp are fully thawed and patted dry before breading so they fry up crispy.

→ How can I make it less spicy?

Reduce or omit the sriracha in the sauce, or add more mayonnaise to mellow the heat.

→ What side dishes pair well?

Serve with steamed rice, coleslaw, or a crisp salad for a balanced meal. Fried rice and tacos are also great options.

→ Is there a lighter cooking method?

Yes, air-fry the breaded shrimp at 400°F for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway for a lighter, crispy texture.