Name: Bang Bang Shrimp Bites Recipe for Crispy Perfection
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Ingredients: 1 lb large shrimp, peeled & deveined; 1/2 cup buttermilk; 1/2 cup cornstarch; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/4 tsp smoked paprika; 1/2 tsp salt; Vegetable oil (for frying); 1/3 cup mayonnaise; 2 tbsp sweet chili sauce; 1 tbsp Sriracha (adjust to taste); 1 tbsp honey; Green onions & sesame seeds (for garnish)

Jump to Recipe

If your evenings are anything like mine—tugged in ten directions between work, errands, and hungry faces—then these Bang Bang Shrimp Bites might just become your new best friend. I whipped up this crispy shrimp appetizer one hectic Friday, and wow, it was love at first bite.

They’re crunchy, creamy, and carry a little spicy kick that makes your taste buds wake up and dance. Whether you’re throwing together a quick dinner or need a crowd-pleasing party snack, this easy seafood bite delivers big flavor with minimal fuss. Trust me, this one’s a keeper.

Why You’ll Love This Bang Bang Shrimp Bites

Because who doesn’t need a go-to dish that’s fast, flavorful, and feels a little fancy? These Bang Bang Shrimp Bites come together in just 30 minutes—perfect for weeknights or impromptu guests. The outside is golden and crispy, while the inside stays juicy and tender. And that creamy, spicy-sweet chili sauce? It’s the kind of flavor that makes everyone ask for seconds—yes, even the picky ones.

Ingredients Bang Bang Shrimp Bites

When it comes to a crave-worthy crispy shrimp appetizer, the magic starts with simple, pantry-friendly ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to bring these spicy shrimp bites to life. (Exact measurements are listed at the bottom of this post and printable for your convenience!)

Large Shrimp – Peeled and deveined. I love using fresh, but frozen (thawed) works just as well when you’re in a pinch.
Buttermilk – This tenderizes the shrimp and helps the coating stick. No buttermilk? A splash of lemon juice in regular milk works too.
Cornstarch + All-Purpose Flour – This combo gives you that irresistible golden, crunchy coating with a light, airy bite.
Garlic Powder – Adds depth and savory goodness without overpowering the shrimp flavor.
Smoked Paprika – A whisper of smoky warmth that plays beautifully with the chili sauce.
Salt – Because even the best flavors need a little seasoning to shine.
Vegetable Oil – For frying. Canola or peanut oil are great alternatives for high-heat cooking.
Mayonnaise – The creamy base for that dreamy bang bang sauce. You can use low-fat mayo for a lighter twist.
Sweet Chili Sauce – This is where that sweet heat comes in. It’s tangy, sticky, and so addictive.
Sriracha – Bring on the spice! Adjust the amount based on your heat tolerance—or skip it for a milder sauce.
Honey – Adds a soft touch of sweetness that balances the sriracha’s kick.
Green Onions & Sesame Seeds – These fresh garnishes add crunch, color, and a final pop of flavor.

Feel free to get creative—try adding a dash of soy sauce to the sauce or tossing in a few red pepper flakes for extra fire. This Asian-inspired shrimp dish is as flexible as your cravings.

How to Make Bang Bang Shrimp Bites

Making these Bang Bang Shrimp Bites is way easier than it looks. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just learning your way around a frying pan, you’ve got this. Here’s how I bring this spicy shrimp recipe to life every single time—crispy, creamy, and oh-so-satisfying.

Marinate the Shrimp

Start by tossing your shrimp in buttermilk. This step isn’t just for fun—it helps tenderize the shrimp and gets that breading to stick like a dream.

Let it chill in the fridge for about 15 minutes. The buttermilk works its magic while you prep the next steps.

Prepare the Dredging Mixture

While the shrimp marinate, mix up your dry ingredients. I combine all-purpose flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and salt in a shallow bowl.

The cornstarch is the secret to that extra-light crunch—like crispy clouds hugging your shrimp.

Coat the Shrimp

Now for the messy-but-fun part. Take the shrimp out of the buttermilk, let the excess drip off, then dredge each one in the flour mixture.

Press gently so the coating sticks well. You want each piece covered like it’s wearing a cozy breadcrumb blanket.

Fry to Crispy Perfection

Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F. Don’t rush this part—hot oil is key for that perfect golden crust.

Fry shrimp in small batches for 2–3 minutes until they’re deeply golden and crunchy. Use a slotted spoon to transfer them to paper towels.

Pro tip: don’t overcrowd the pan, or you’ll end up with soggy shrimp sadness.

Whip Up the Creamy Sauce

In a small bowl, stir together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey. This is where the magic happens—sweet, spicy, creamy, and rich.

Taste and tweak the heat level if needed. I like mine with a little extra Sriracha for that fiery kick.

Toss and Serve

While the shrimp are still warm, toss them gently in the bang bang sauce until coated. That glossy, spicy-sweet chili glaze clings to every crispy curve.

Pile them up on a platter, sprinkle with green onions and sesame seeds, and serve immediately. These easy seafood bites disappear fast—so maybe make extra.

Tips for Success

Pat shrimp dry before marinating to help the buttermilk stick better.
Use a thermometer to keep oil at a steady 350°F—too hot and the coating burns, too cool and it gets soggy.
Fry in small batches to keep the oil temperature consistent and ensure crispy results every time.
Don’t skip the cornstarch—it’s the secret to that shatteringly crisp texture we all crave.
Toss shrimp in sauce just before serving so the coating stays crisp and doesn’t get soggy.

Equipment Needed

Mixing bowls – For marinating shrimp and mixing the coating and sauce. Any medium-sized bowl works.
Shallow dish – Ideal for dredging the shrimp evenly. A pie plate or baking dish does the job.
Deep skillet or fryer – For frying the shrimp to golden perfection. A heavy-bottomed pan helps maintain even heat.
Slotted spoon or tongs – To safely remove shrimp from the hot oil without losing the coating.
Paper towels – For draining excess oil and keeping that crispy texture intact.

Variations

Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp – Want a lighter version? Skip the deep fry and pop the coated shrimp into an air fryer at 400°F for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway. They come out crispy with way less oil.
Low-Carb Option – Swap the all-purpose flour for almond flour and skip the cornstarch. It changes the texture slightly, but still gives a satisfying crunch for those watching their carbs.
Gluten-Free Version – Use a gluten-free flour blend and double-check that your sauces are certified gluten-free. Rice flour also makes a great crispy coating substitute.
Extra Spicy Shrimp Bites – Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dredging mix and a few dashes of hot sauce to the bang bang sauce for a fiery kick that spice lovers will adore.
Sweet Chili Shrimp Lettuce Cups – Serve the sauced shrimp in butter lettuce leaves for a fresh, low-carb twist that’s perfect for a light lunch or appetizer spread.
Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos – Tuck these crispy bites into warm tortillas with shredded cabbage and a drizzle of extra sauce for a fun, Asian-inspired shrimp dish taco night.
Kid-Friendly Version – Cut back or skip the Sriracha altogether and add a touch more honey to the sauce. The result? Sweet chili shrimp with just the right amount of zing for little taste buds.

Serving Suggestions

Serve over shredded lettuce or Napa cabbage for a refreshing crunch and pretty presentation.
Pair with chilled white wine, sparkling water, or a citrusy cocktail to balance the heat.
Offer with a side of jasmine rice or garlic noodles for a more filling meal option.
Arrange on a platter with toothpicks for easy party bites—great for game day or gatherings.
Top with extra sesame seeds and a squeeze of lime for a zesty finishing touch.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make Bang Bang Shrimp Bites in an air fryer?

A: Absolutely! I’ve tested this easy seafood bite in the air fryer, and it’s a game-changer. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F, lightly coat the shrimp with oil spray, and cook for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through. You’ll still get that satisfying crunch—without the mess of deep frying. It’s a lighter take on the classic buttermilk fried shrimp, and it still delivers on flavor!

Q: What can I use instead of buttermilk for marinating?

A: No buttermilk? No problem. I often mix 1/2 cup of milk with 1/2 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar—let it sit for 5 minutes, and voila, instant substitute. It works just as well to tenderize the shrimp and help the coating stick. Great for when a grocery run just isn’t in the cards.

Q: How spicy is this spicy shrimp recipe?

A: This spicy shrimp recipe has a gentle kick that most folks can handle. That said, if you’re spice-sensitive or cooking for kids, just dial back the Sriracha—or skip it altogether. Want more fire? Add a pinch of cayenne or an extra squeeze of chili sauce. I like mine with a bit of a burn, but it’s totally customizable.

Q: Can I make these crispy shrimp appetizer bites ahead of time?

A: While these crispy shrimp appetizer bites are best fresh, you can prep ahead. I often marinate the shrimp and mix the sauce earlier in the day. Fry right before serving to keep them perfectly crunchy. If you must make them ahead, reheat in the oven or air fryer to bring back some crisp.

Q: What’s the best way to reheat Bang Bang Shrimp Bites?

A: Skip the microwave—it makes them soggy. Instead, pop the shrimp in a 375°F oven or air fryer for about 5–7 minutes. They’ll crisp up beautifully without drying out. Wait to toss them in the sauce until after reheating for that signature texture. It’s the best way to bring those sweet chili shrimp back to life!

Final Thoughts

There’s something magical about a recipe that turns everyday ingredients into a dish that feels like a celebration. These Bang Bang Shrimp Bites do exactly that—crispy, spicy, creamy, and bursting with flavor in every single bite.

Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, hosting a get-together, or just treating yourself after a long day, this Asian-inspired shrimp dish hits the sweet spot. It’s quick, it’s easy, and it never disappoints.

So go ahead—fry up a batch, drizzle that dreamy sauce, and watch them disappear. This one’s a keeper, from my kitchen to yours.

Bang Bang Shrimp Bites Recipe for Crispy Perfection