If you have a soft spot for shrimp that packs a punch of flavor without any gluten worries, this Gluten-Free Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe will quickly become one of your favorites. Crispy, golden shrimp coated in a perfectly balanced spicy and sweet sauce makes every bite irresistible. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity—fresh shrimp, a crunchy gluten-free coating, and a creamy yet zesty bang bang sauce that’s easy to whip up. It’s an ideal dish for weeknight dinners, casual gatherings, or whenever you need a vibrant appetizer that everyone can enjoy without compromise.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white plate filled with many strips of raw meat covered in a thick layer of white flour, making the meat mostly hidden beneath the powder. The meat strips show hints of yellow and pink under the flour, and the plate sits on a white marbled surface, giving a clean and bright look. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The ingredients for this recipe are delightfully straightforward yet thoughtfully chosen to create a harmony of flavors and textures. Each component, from the crispy gluten-free coating to the creamy bang bang sauce, plays an essential role in making this dish shine.

1 lb raw shrimp (peeled and deveined): Fresh and tender shrimp are the star of the dish, providing succulent texture and flavor.
2 large eggs: These act as the perfect binding agent to help the coating adhere to the shrimp.
1 cup gluten-free bread crumbs: Offer a light, crispy crunch that makes the shrimp irresistible.
½ cup gluten-free all-purpose flour: Helps to give structure and a delicate crust to the shrimp.
½ tsp garlic powder (optional): Adds a gentle hint of savory depth to the coating mix.
½ tsp sea salt: Enhances all the flavors, making the dish pop wonderfully.
¼ tsp black pepper (optional): A subtle touch of spice to complement the sweetness of the sauce.
3 Tbsp avocado oil: Ideal for frying due to its high smoke point and neutral flavor.
1/3 cup plain Greek yogurt: Provides creamy tanginess for the bang bang sauce and keeps it light.
4 Tbsp sweet chili sauce: Brings the sweet and slightly spicy foundation to the sauce.
2 tsp sriracha (optional): For those who love a little extra kick in their bang bang sauce.

How to Make Gluten-Free Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce

First things first, combine the plain Greek yogurt, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha (if using) in a small bowl. Stir until smooth and creamy, then pop it into the fridge while you prepare the shrimp. This step lets the flavors meld beautifully, giving you that signature bang bang zing that ties the dish together.

Step 2: Prep the Shrimp

Make sure your shrimp are peeled and deveined. If the shells or tails remain, remove them according to your preference; leaving the tails on can add a charming presentation and extra flavor when fried. Pat the shrimp dry thoroughly with paper towels to ensure the coating sticks perfectly and the shrimp crisp up nicely during frying.

Step 3: Set Up Your Coating Station

In one bowl, whisk the eggs until they’re nicely beaten. In another, combine the gluten-free bread crumbs, gluten-free flour, garlic powder, sea salt, and black pepper. This combination creates a flavorful and crisp crust, gluten-free yet every bit as satisfying as traditional coatings.

Step 4: Coat the Shrimp

Dip each shrimp first into the beaten eggs, making sure it’s completely wet, then transfer it to the flour and breadcrumb mixture. Press gently so the coating adheres evenly, covering every bit of the shrimp for maximum crunch.

Step 5: Fry to Crispy Perfection

Heat the avocado oil in a large nonstick skillet over high heat until it’s shimmering and hot (around 400 degrees Fahrenheit). Place the coated shrimp carefully in a single layer, working in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding. Fry each side for about 2 to 3 minutes until golden, crispy, and cooked through—the shrimp should curl and turn opaque.

Step 6: Serve with the Bang Bang Sauce

Remove the cooked shrimp onto a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve immediately with the chilled bang bang sauce either drizzled generously on top or on the side for dipping. A sprinkle of chopped green onions and a squeeze of fresh lemon or lime juice takes this dish over the top!

How to Serve Gluten-Free Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe

A white plate holds a large pile of golden, crispy fried shrimp with rough, crunchy coatings. The shrimp curls vary slightly in size and are sprinkled with small green herb bits. Underneath the shrimp, light brown parchment paper lines the plate. Slices of bright yellow lemon are placed around the shrimp, adding a fresh color contrast. Above and slightly behind the plate is a white bowl with a creamy light orange dipping sauce, smooth in texture. The whole scene is set on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes can brighten this already vibrant dish. Chopped green onions add a mild oniony crunch, while freshly squeezed lemon or lime juice imparts a lively citrus note. For a touch of color and zest, consider finely diced red bell peppers or a sprinkle of sesame seeds.

Side Dishes

The shrimp’s bold flavors pair wonderfully with light and fresh sides. Think crisp green salads, steamed jasmine rice, or even a tangy slaw. These sides help balance the spicy-sweet bang bang sauce and maintain a harmonious meal experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Looking to impress guests or just elevate your weeknight dinner? Serve the shrimp on a bed of lettuce leaves for an easy finger-food option or skewer the shrimp and serve as an appetizer. You can also pile them over avocado halves or inside gluten-free tortillas for delicious tacos that’ll please any crowd.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers (though they probably won’t last long), place the shrimp and sauce separately in airtight containers and keep them in the refrigerator. This separation ensures the shrimp stay crispy, and the sauce remains fresh for best flavor.

Freezing

While freshly fried shrimp are best, you can freeze the uncooked breaded shrimp in a single layer on a parchment-lined tray. Once frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. When ready, fry directly from frozen, slightly increasing the cooking time. The bang bang sauce freezes well separately in a small airtight container.

Reheating

To reheat leftover cooked shrimp, pop them in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 5 to 7 minutes or until warmed through and crispy. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the coating soggy. Serve freshly drizzled with your bang bang sauce for that signature flavor.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this Gluten-Free Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them fully and pat dry before coating to help the breading stick and to avoid sogginess during frying.

Is the sauce spicy?

The spiciness is moderate and can be adjusted to your liking. Leaving out the sriracha will keep it mild, while adding more can bring a fiery kick.

What gluten-free breadcrumbs do you recommend?

Look for plain gluten-free breadcrumbs with minimal additives for the best texture and flavor. Some brands offer panko-style crumbs that yield an especially crispy crust.

Can I bake the shrimp instead of frying?

Yes, baking is a healthier alternative though the shrimp won’t be quite as crispy. Bake at 425 degrees Fahrenheit on a greased sheet for about 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.

How long does the bang bang sauce keep?

Stored properly in an airtight container, the sauce will stay fresh in the fridge for about 4 days, making it perfect for meal prep or entertaining.

Final Thoughts

This Gluten-Free Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser, combining a crispy gluten-free coating with a luscious, spicy-sweet sauce that dances on your taste buds. Whether you’re cooking for family or impressing friends, it’s a fun, flavorful dish that’s easy to make and impossible not to love. Give it a try—you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!