I've created the most amazing Bang Bang Shrimp Rice Bowl in my kitchen and I can't wait to share it with you. The shrimp turns out perfectly crispy and that sauce is absolutely addicting. I love serving this for dinner because it's quick to make and my whole family devours it.
Trust Me You Need This Bowl in Your Life
Let me tell you why this bowl makes me so happy. The shrimp get this incredible crispy coating and the sauce has just enough kick to make things interesting. I pile on fresh veggies and serve it over fluffy rice. My kids clean their plates every time I make this.
Everything You Need
- Shrimp: Large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined.
- Bang Bang Sauce: A mix of mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha for creamy heat.
- Breading: Cornstarch, egg mixture, and panko breadcrumbs for crispy shrimp.
- Rice: Choose white, brown, or cauliflower rice as the base.
- Veggies: Fresh avocado, edamame, carrots, and cucumber.
- Herbs & Garnish: Fresh cilantro and lime wedges for added zest.
Making Your Bang Bang Shrimp
- Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
- Mix mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha in a small bowl. Set aside.
- Step 2: Bread the Shrimp
- Dredge shrimp in cornstarch, coat in an egg mixture, and finish in seasoned panko breadcrumbs.
- Step 3: Fry the Shrimp
- Cook shrimp in oil heated to 375°F for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
- Step 4: Coat with Sauce
- Toss cooked shrimp in the prepared bang bang sauce until well-coated.
Putting It All Together
Fill your bowl with a nice scoop of rice first. I like adding sliced avocado, shredded carrots, cucumber chunks and some edamame around the edges. Top with your crispy shrimp, drizzle that amazing sauce all over and finish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime.
Getting Perfect Shrimp Every Time
Fresh shrimp makes such a difference in this recipe. Watch your oil temperature and keep it steady at 375°F for that perfect crunch. Make sure you coat every bit of shrimp in the breading so you get that lovely crispy coating all over.
Switch Things Up
Sometimes I make this with chicken when my sister visits because she doesn't eat shrimp. Tofu works great too. Play around with different veggies like colorful bell peppers or peppery radishes. You can make the sauce spicier or milder by adjusting the sriracha.
Save Some for Later
Keep your leftovers separate in containers with tight lids. When you want to eat them reheat the shrimp in your oven or air fryer at 350°F for about 5 minutes. They'll get crispy again and taste almost like fresh made. Put your bowl together once everything is warm.
What to Serve With It
I love serving these bowls with a light green salad on the side. For drinks my homemade mango iced tea goes perfectly with these flavors. When friends come over I'll put out some edamame or spring rolls to start.
Make Your Own Sauce Trust Me
I spent years buying premade bang bang sauce until I started making my own. Now I'll never go back. You can control exactly how spicy you want it and the fresh taste is unbeatable. Plus it takes just minutes to stir together.
Good for You Too
What I love about this bowl is how it gives you everything you need. The shrimp adds protein my family needs while all those colorful veggies pack in nutrients. The sauce makes it feel like a treat but the whole meal stays light and satisfying.
Questions You Might Have
Q: Can I make this in my air fryer? A: Yes! I do this all the time. Pop them in at 375°F for about 8 minutes and they come out wonderfully crispy. Q: What about making the sauce ahead? A: The sauce keeps beautifully in the fridge for 3 days. I often make extra to have on hand.When to Make These Bowls
These bowls have become my go to for busy weeknights. They're perfect for meal prep too. When we have friends over I'll set up a little bowl bar and let everyone build their own. It's always a hit.
Some Last Tips
These bowls are really all about making them your own. Play with the ingredients until you find your perfect combination. The spice level the veggie mix whatever makes you happy. That's what cooking is all about.
More Bowls to Try
If you enjoy this recipe you'll love my Cilantro Lime Shrimp Bowl. It's got a totally different flavor profile but it's just as delicious. My Soy Ginger Salmon Bowl is another family favorite that's worth trying.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I bake the shrimp instead?
- While frying gives best crunch, can bake at 400°F for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway.
- → Can I use regular milk?
- Yes, any milk works, or use buttermilk. Lemon juice helps tenderize shrimp.
- → How spicy is this?
- Moderately spicy from chili garlic sauce. Adjust amount for preferred heat level.
- → Can I prep ahead?
- Prep vegetables and sauce ahead. Bread and cook shrimp just before serving for crispiness.
- → What rice works best?
- Any rice works - white, brown, or cauliflower rice for low-carb option.