Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos: A Delicious & Easy Recipe

BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese: Prepare to experience a flavor explosion that will redefine your definition of comfort food! Imagine the smoky sweetness of barbecue chicken, the creamy melt of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, all nestled between slices of perfectly toasted bread. This isn’t just a grilled cheese; it’s a culinary adventure.

While the grilled cheese sandwich itself boasts a long and beloved history as an American staple, the addition of BBQ chicken elevates it to a whole new level. Barbecue, with its roots in the Caribbean and the American South, brings a rich, smoky heritage to the table. Combining these two iconic dishes creates a symphony of flavors that’s both familiar and exciting.

People adore this BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese because it’s the ultimate indulgence. The tangy barbecue sauce complements the richness of the cheese, while the tender chicken adds a satisfying heartiness. It’s quick, easy to make, and incredibly satisfying – perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend treat. The combination of textures – the crispy bread, the gooey cheese, and the tender chicken – is simply irresistible. Get ready to discover your new favorite way to enjoy a grilled cheese!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Bang Bang Shrimp:
• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
• 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to your spice preference)
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Vegetable oil, for frying
• For the Slaw:
• 4 cups shredded cabbage (green or a mix)
• 1/2 cup shredded carrots
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• For the Tacos:
• 12 small corn or flour tortillas
• Optional toppings: chopped cilantro, sliced green onions, sesame seeds, lime wedges

Preparing the Bang Bang Shrimp

1. Prepare the Shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. This is crucial for getting a crispy coating. Excess moisture will prevent the cornstarch from adhering properly.
2. Coat the Shrimp: In a medium bowl, toss the shrimp with the cornstarch until they are evenly coated. Make sure each shrimp is well covered; this will create a lovely crispy crust when fried.
3. Make the Bang Bang Sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, rice vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust the sriracha to your desired level of spiciness. If you like it extra spicy, add a bit more! The sauce should be creamy, sweet, and have a nice kick.

Frying the Shrimp

1. Heat the Oil: Pour about 1-2 inches of vegetable oil into a large skillet or deep fryer. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350-375°F (175-190°C). You can test the oil by dropping a small piece of cornstarch-coated shrimp into the oil; if it sizzles immediately and floats to the top, the oil is ready. Be careful not to overheat the oil, as it can burn the shrimp and create a smoky kitchen.
2. Fry the Shrimp: Working in batches, carefully add the shrimp to the hot oil. Avoid overcrowding the skillet, as this will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy shrimp. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque and the coating is golden brown and crispy.
3. Drain the Shrimp: Remove the fried shrimp from the oil with a slotted spoon and place them on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. This will help keep them crispy.
4. Toss with Sauce: While the shrimp are still warm, transfer them to the bowl with the Bang Bang sauce. Toss gently to coat the shrimp evenly with the sauce. Make sure every piece gets a good coating of that delicious sauce!

Preparing the Slaw

1. Combine the Vegetables: In a medium bowl, combine the shredded cabbage and shredded carrots. You can use a pre-shredded coleslaw mix to save time, or shred your own cabbage and carrots for a fresher taste.
2. Make the Slaw Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, rice vinegar, lime juice, sugar, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed. You might want to add a little more lime juice for extra tang or a pinch more sugar for sweetness.
3. Dress the Slaw: Pour the dressing over the cabbage and carrots and toss to combine. Make sure the vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing.
4. Chill the Slaw: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the slaw for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This also helps the slaw to become a bit softer and more flavorful. You can prepare the slaw ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.

Assembling the Tacos

1. Warm the Tortillas: Warm the tortillas according to package directions. You can warm them in a dry skillet over medium heat, in the microwave wrapped in a damp paper towel, or in the oven wrapped in foil. Warming the tortillas makes them more pliable and prevents them from cracking when you fill them.
2. Assemble the Tacos: Place a spoonful of slaw in the center of each tortilla.
3. Add the Shrimp: Top the slaw with a generous portion of the Bang Bang shrimp.
4. Add Toppings (Optional): Garnish with your favorite toppings, such as chopped cilantro, sliced green onions, sesame seeds, and lime wedges. A squeeze of fresh lime juice really brightens up the flavors!
5. Serve Immediately: Serve the tacos immediately and enjoy! These are best enjoyed fresh, while the shrimp is still warm and crispy.

Tips and Variations:

• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of sriracha in the Bang Bang sauce to your preference. If you’re sensitive to spice, start with a smaller amount and add more to taste.
• Shrimp Size: I prefer using large shrimp for these tacos, but you can use smaller shrimp if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
• Tortilla Type: You can use either corn or flour tortillas for these tacos. Corn tortillas are a classic choice for tacos, while flour tortillas are softer and more pliable. Choose whichever you prefer!
• Slaw Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables to the slaw, such as red onion, bell peppers, or jicama. You can also use a different type of dressing, such as a vinaigrette or a creamy cilantro-lime dressing.
• Air Fryer Option: For a healthier option, you can air fry the shrimp instead of frying them in oil. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Spray the cornstarch-coated shrimp with cooking spray and air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the Bang Bang sauce and the slaw ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble the tacos. The shrimp is best cooked fresh, but you can cook it a few hours ahead of time and reheat it gently before serving.
• Serving Suggestions: Serve these Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos with a side of rice and beans, a simple salad, or some tortilla chips and guacamole. They’re also great as a party appetizer!

Enjoy your homemade Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos!

Conclusion:

And there you have it! These Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are truly a flavor explosion you won’t want to miss. From the crispy, perfectly coated shrimp to the creamy, spicy bang bang sauce, every bite is an absolute delight. I know, I know, there are a million taco recipes out there, but trust me on this one – these are special. They’re quick enough for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough to serve at your next gathering.

Why are these a must-try? Well, beyond the incredible taste, they’re surprisingly versatile. The bang bang sauce, the star of the show, is a symphony of sweet, spicy, and savory notes that perfectly complements the delicate sweetness of the shrimp. The crispy texture of the shrimp adds another layer of enjoyment, making each taco a textural masterpiece. Plus, they’re just plain fun to eat! Who can resist a vibrant, flavorful taco bursting with deliciousness?

But the fun doesn’t stop there! Feel free to get creative with your toppings and serving suggestions. I personally love topping mine with shredded cabbage, pickled red onions, and a sprinkle of cilantro for a fresh, vibrant crunch. But you could also try adding some diced mango for a tropical twist, or a dollop of guacamole for extra creaminess. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider adding a drizzle of sriracha mayo for an extra kick of heat.

For serving, these tacos are fantastic on their own, but they also pair well with a variety of sides. Consider serving them with a side of Mexican rice and beans for a complete and satisfying meal. Or, for a lighter option, try pairing them with a refreshing cucumber and avocado salad. And don’t forget the drinks! A cold Mexican beer or a refreshing margarita would be the perfect accompaniment to these flavorful tacos.

Looking for variations? You could easily adapt this recipe to use other types of seafood, such as scallops or cod. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly. You could also try using chicken or tofu for a vegetarian option. The possibilities are endless! The key is to keep the bang bang sauce consistent, as that’s what really makes these tacos shine.

I’ve poured my heart into perfecting this recipe, and I’m confident that you’ll love it as much as I do. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, and it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation. The secret is in the sauce, and this bang bang shrimp tacos recipe delivers on flavor and satisfaction.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, fire up your stove, and get ready to experience the magic of these Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos. I promise you won’t be disappointed.

And most importantly, I want to hear about your experience! Once you’ve tried the recipe, please come back and leave a comment below. Let me know what you thought, what variations you tried, and any tips or tricks you discovered along the way. I love hearing from you, and your feedback helps me to continue creating delicious and inspiring recipes. Happy cooking!