Introduction & Inspiration
Whenever I crave something crispy, spicy, and a little bit indulgent, this Bang Bang Shrimp Rice Bowl is my answer.
It’s packed with crispy shrimp tossed in a creamy, spicy sauce, nestled over fluffy jasmine rice with fresh, crunchy veggies.
This bowl brings restaurant-quality flavors right into my kitchen, and the best part is that it’s so simple and quick to put together.
It’s my go-to when I want a meal that feels special but doesn’t take hours to make.
Nostalgic Appeal
Bang Bang Shrimp always reminds me of fun nights out at seafood spots where the appetizers were just as exciting as the main dishes.
There’s something about that creamy, spicy sauce coating crispy shrimp that feels like an instant celebration.
Bringing those flavors into a homemade rice bowl lets me recreate that same excitement in a way that’s healthier and fresher.
Every bite feels nostalgic and comforting, but even better because it’s made with love at home.
Homemade Focus
One of my favorite things about this recipe is how it takes simple, everyday ingredients and turns them into something crave-worthy.
Instead of deep frying, I either pan-fry or air fry the shrimp, making it lighter but still satisfyingly crispy.
The bang bang sauce is made from just three simple ingredients, but it’s packed with bold, irresistible flavor.
Building the rice bowls from scratch means I can adjust everything exactly to my liking and make a fresh, homemade meal that feels like a treat.
Flavor Goal
The goal with this bowl was to balance spicy, creamy, crispy, and fresh all in one.
The shrimp are perfectly crunchy on the outside and juicy inside, coated in a sweet and spicy bang bang sauce that clings to every piece.
Jasmine rice provides a light, fluffy base that absorbs all the sauce, while shredded lettuce and cucumbers add a refreshing, cooling crunch.
Every forkful offers the perfect contrast of textures and flavors, making it totally irresistible.
Ingredient Insights
Shrimp are the star here, and I always choose large shrimp that are peeled and deveined for convenience.
Flour, egg, and panko breadcrumbs create the perfect light, crispy coating without making the shrimp too heavy.
Mayonnaise provides the creamy base for the bang bang sauce, while sweet chili sauce adds sweetness and a hint of heat.
Sriracha brings a bolder spicy kick that makes the sauce totally addictive.
Fresh shredded lettuce and crisp cucumber slices help balance the richness and give the bowl a vibrant, refreshing feel.
Essential Equipment
A large skillet is ideal for pan-frying the shrimp if you prefer a stovetop method.
Alternatively, an air fryer works beautifully for a lighter version that’s just as crispy.
A few shallow bowls for dredging the shrimp in flour, egg, and panko make the breading process quick and clean.
Mixing bowls are essential for preparing the bang bang sauce and tossing the shrimp quickly after frying.
List of Ingredients with Measurements
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- ¼ cup flour
- 1 egg, beaten
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha
- 2 cups cooked jasmine rice
- Shredded lettuce and sliced cucumbers (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1
Prepare a breading station with three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten egg, and one with panko breadcrumbs.
Step 2
Dredge each shrimp in the flour, then dip into the egg, and finally coat in panko breadcrumbs, pressing lightly to adhere.
Step 3
Heat a little oil in a skillet over medium-high heat or preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
Step 4
Cook the shrimp for about 2–3 minutes per side in the skillet, or air fry for about 8 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
Step 5
In a medium bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha to make the bang bang sauce.
Step 6
Toss the cooked shrimp gently in the sauce until fully coated.
Step 7
To assemble, divide the cooked jasmine rice among serving bowls.
Step 8
Top each bowl with a generous portion of bang bang shrimp, shredded lettuce, and sliced cucumbers.
Step 9
Serve immediately while the shrimp are crispy and the sauce is warm.
Troubleshooting (FAQ)
Why isn’t my shrimp crispy?
If the oil isn’t hot enough or the shrimp are overcrowded in the skillet, they can steam instead of fry. Make sure to cook them in batches if necessary.
Can I bake the shrimp instead of frying?
Yes, you can bake the breaded shrimp at 400°F for about 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through. They’ll still be delicious but slightly less crispy.
Is there a lighter version of the bang bang sauce?
You can use a light mayonnaise or a Greek yogurt base to create a lighter sauce without losing the creamy texture.
What if I want it spicier?
Simply add a little more sriracha to the sauce or drizzle extra sriracha on top of the assembled bowls for an extra kick.
Tips and Variations
- Use tempura shrimp for an even crispier version if you want a restaurant-style bowl.
- Add sliced avocado or edamame to the bowl for extra texture and flavor.
- Swap jasmine rice for brown rice or cauliflower rice for a lighter option.
- Sprinkle chopped peanuts or cashews on top for a crunchy finish.
- Try a drizzle of eel sauce or soy sauce for another layer of flavor.
- Mix a little lime juice into the bang bang sauce for a zesty twist.
- Make mini bowls for appetizers or party snacks.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
- Serve with a side of miso soup or a fresh Asian cucumber salad.
- Pair with an iced matcha latte or sparkling water with lime.
- Offer extra bang bang sauce on the side for dipping.
- For a full meal, add a small side of steamed dumplings or potstickers.
Nutritional Information
This Bang Bang Shrimp Rice Bowl is a flavorful combination of lean protein, healthy carbs, and fresh veggies.
Shrimp provide a good source of protein and essential nutrients like selenium and vitamin B12.
Using jasmine rice keeps the base light and aromatic, while fresh vegetables boost the fiber and vitamin content.
It’s a balanced meal that feels indulgent but still fits into a healthy eating plan when portioned mindfully.
Bang Bang Shrimp Rice Bowl
Description
Make this Bang Bang Shrimp Rice Bowl for an easy, spicy, and delicious dinner. Crispy shrimp tossed in bang bang sauce, served over jasmine rice with fresh veggies—a perfect meal ready in under 30 minutes!
Ingredients
-
1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
-
¼ cup flour
-
1 egg, beaten
-
½ cup panko breadcrumbs
-
¼ cup mayonnaise
-
2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
-
1 tablespoon sriracha
-
2 cups cooked jasmine rice
-
Shredded lettuce and sliced cucumbers (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1
Prepare a breading station with three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten egg, and one with panko breadcrumbs.
Step 2
Dredge each shrimp in the flour, then dip into the egg, and finally coat in panko breadcrumbs, pressing lightly to adhere.
Step 3
Heat a little oil in a skillet over medium-high heat or preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
Step 4
Cook the shrimp for about 2–3 minutes per side in the skillet, or air fry for about 8 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
Step 5
In a medium bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha to make the bang bang sauce.
Step 6
Toss the cooked shrimp gently in the sauce until fully coated.
Step 7
To assemble, divide the cooked jasmine rice among serving bowls.
Step 8
Top each bowl with a generous portion of bang bang shrimp, shredded lettuce, and sliced cucumbers.
Step 9
Serve immediately while the shrimp are crispy and the sauce is warm.
Recipe Summary and Q&A
This Bang Bang Shrimp Rice Bowl is the perfect mix of spicy, creamy, crunchy, and fresh, all layered over fragrant jasmine rice.
It’s a fun, easy meal that’s packed with flavor and comes together in under 30 minutes.
Customizable and versatile, it’s great for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or even casual entertaining.
If you try new add-ins, swaps, or have any questions, I’d love to hear how you made it your own!
Call-to-Action
If you make this Bang Bang Shrimp Rice Bowl, I would love to know what you think.
Leave a comment below with your favorite toppings or sauce tweaks, save the recipe for your next meal prep session, and share it with a seafood lover in your life.
Let’s keep making quick, delicious meals together!