Bang Bang Shrimp

The first time I had Bang Bang shrimp at that restaurant chain, I kept dipping piece after piece into that creamy sauce until my husband asked if I was going to share. I've been recreating it at home ever since, and honestly, I like my version better because I can control exactly how much heat goes into the sauce.

Last summer I made these for a backyard cookout and watched them disappear in under ten minutes. My friend Sarah who claims she hates spicy food kept going back for thirds, adjusting the Sriracha level in her head for next time.

Ingredients

• 1 lb large shrimp: Fresh shrimp gives the best texture, but frozen and thawed works perfectly fine
• 1 cup cornstarch: Creates that initial dry layer that helps the egg and panko stick beautifully
• 2 large eggs: Beat them until completely smooth for even coating
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs: These Japanese breadcrumbs are lighter and crispier than regular breadcrumbs
• 1/3 cup mayonnaise: Real mayonnaise makes the sauce creamy and rich
• 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce: Balances the heat with just the right amount of sweetness
• 1 tablespoon Sriracha: Start here and adjust up or down depending on your spice tolerance
• 1 tablespoon honey: Adds depth and helps the sauce cling to the shrimp
• 1 teaspoon rice vinegar: Cuts through the richness and brightens everything
• Vegetable oil: You need enough for two inches of depth in your pan
• 2 tablespoons sliced green onions: Fresh pop of color and mild onion flavor
• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds: Totally optional but they look so pretty on the platter

Instructions

Prep your shrimp:

Pat them completely dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper

Set up your breading station:

Three shallow bowls work best, one for cornstarch, one for beaten eggs, one for panko

Coat each shrimp:

Cornstarch first, shake off excess, then egg, finally press into panko until well coated

Make the sauce:

Whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, honey, and rice vinegar until smooth

Heat your oil:

Get it to 350 degrees, or test with a wooden spoon, bubbles should form around the handle

Fry in batches:

Cook the shrimp about two to three minutes until golden brown and transfer to paper towels

Toss with sauce:

Put the hot shrimp in a bowl with the sauce and fold gently until every piece is coated

Garnish and serve:

Scatter green onions and sesame seeds over the top and serve immediately

Save

These have become my go-to for game day and casual dinner parties. There's something satisfying about watching people's eyes light up when they take that first bite and realize how good they are.

The Perfect Crunch Factor

Panko breadcrumbs are the secret weapon here because they're larger and airier than traditional breadcrumbs. I've tried regular crumbs and they just don't give that same shatteringly crispy texture that makes restaurant versions so addictive. Press the panko firmly onto each shrimp to ensure it sticks properly during frying.

Sauce Adjustments

The beauty of this sauce is how easily it adapts to your taste. Sometimes I add extra Sriracha when I'm feeling bold, other times I dial it back for my spice-averse friends. The honey or sugar is crucial though, it balances the heat and creates that restaurant style flavor profile everyone recognizes immediately.

Making It A Meal

While these shrimp shine as an appetizer, they can absolutely become dinner with minimal effort. Serve them over steamed jasmine rice or wrap them in butter lettuce cups for something lighter.

• Cooked rice noodles work beautifully underneath for an Asian inspired bowl
• A simple cucumber salad on the side cuts through the richness
• Leftover sauce makes an incredible dip for sweet potato fries

Save

Trust me, once you make these at home, you'll understand why they're such a crowd favorite. Happy cooking!

Recipe FAQs

→ What makes Bang Bang sauce special?

The sauce combines creamy mayonnaise with sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, honey, and rice vinegar. This creates a perfect balance of creaminess, sweetness, and heat that coats the crispy shrimp beautifully.

→ Can I bake or air-fry instead of deep frying?

Yes, bake at 400°F for 10-12 minutes or air-fry at the same temperature. Flip halfway through cooking. The texture will be slightly less crispy but still delicious.

→ How spicy is this dish?

The heat level is moderate and adjustable. One tablespoon Sriracha provides mild to medium spice. Reduce to half for less heat or double for extra kick.

→ What can I serve with Bang Bang shrimp?

Great over steamed jasmine rice, in lettuce wraps, or as standalone appetizer. Pair with cucumber salad or edamame for a complete meal.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store in airtight container up to 2 days. Reheat in 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness. Sauce may separate but flavors remain intact.