My Popcorn Shrimp with Bang Bang Dipping Sauce is a lighter, more protein-forward take on the classic appetizer without sacrificing flavor.
The sauce keeps things simple with just 3 ingredients – yep, 3! Greek yogurt, sweet Thai chili sauce, and soy sauce. It’s a creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet dip that still delivers that signature bang bang feel. Using Greek yogurt in place of mayo adds protein and brightness, making the sauce feel less heavy but just as craveable.
The shrimp themselves are just as flexible as the sauce. You can fry them for that ultra-crispy, restaurant-style bite, or bake them when you’re in the mood for something a little lighter. Either way, popcorn shrimp cook quickly and stay tender. Makes this a great option for weeknight dinners, game-day snacks, or an easy crowd-pleasing appetizer!
What makes this dish especially appealing is how customizable it is. Serve the shrimp as-is with the dipping sauce on the side, tuck them into tacos or rice bowls, or pile them onto a salad for a high-protein meal. It’s the kind of recipe that fits whatever mood you’re in – indulgent or balanced! And without needing two completely different dishes!
Shrimp Seasoning Ingredients:
- Salt: Enhances the natural flavor of the shrimp and balances all the other seasonings.
- Black Pepper: Adds a mild heat and subtle depth to complement the creaminess of the bang bang sauce.
- Onion Powder: Brings a sweet, savory note that enhances the overall umami of the shrimp without overpowering it.
- Garlic Powder: Adds warmth and aromatic richness, pairing perfectly with the paprika and sauce.
- Paprika: Gives a subtle smokiness and vibrant color, making the shrimp visually appealing while boosting flavor.
- Avocado or Olive Oil: Helps the seasonings stick, keeps the shrimp tender during cooking, and adds a hint of richness.
If you don’t want to deep-fry the shrimp (or bake them), you can also cook them without the flour/panko coating and just grill them on the stove. I love going that route and making my Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos that you can see below.
What is Bang Bang Sauce?
Bang Bang Sauce is a creamy, sweet, and slightly spicy condiment that adds richness and bold flavor to just about anything – from crispy salmon and shrimp to veggies or wraps. It’s incredibly simple to make, yet delivers a balance of heat, tang, and umami in every bite. Trust me, when you make this you’ll be craving it constantly!
I love to also use Bang Bang Sauce on chicken, shrimp, roasted cauliflower, or tofu. It’s so versatile and good on everything!
Here are the 3 ingredients I use to make to make Bang Bang Sauce:
- Greek Yogurt or Mayonnaise: Creates a smooth, creamy base that brings richness and helps the sauce cling to food.
- Sweet Chili Sauce: Adds sweetness, mild heat, and a hint of tanginess for balance.
- Soy Sauce: Introduces a salty, umami depth that ties all the flavors together.
This quick, three-ingredient sauce is a game-changer – perfect for drizzling, dipping, or tossing!
Love Bang Bang Sauce?
Try out my other Bang Bang Sauce recipes!
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Popcorn Shrimp with Bang Bang Dipping Sauce
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Description
A lighter, high-protein take on popcorn shrimp, served with a creamy three-ingredient Bang Bang-style dipping sauce and cooked either fried or baked to suit your mood.
Ingredients
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt (any fat percentage; substitute for mayonnaise)
- 3 tbsp sweet chili sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp mayonnaise (optional, for extra richness)
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb medium-sized shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 cup flour
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 1/2 cups panko
Instructions
- Begin by making the Bang Bang Sauce: Add all Bang Bang Sauce ingredients to a bowl (¼ cup Greek yogurt, 3 tbsp sweet chili sauce, 1 tbsp soy sauce, and 1 tbsp mayonnaise). Stir until smooth and well combined.
- On a plate, pat shrimp dry with paper towels. Season evenly with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
- Set up a dredging station with one bowl of the beaten eggs and a baking sheet arranged with flour on one side, panko in the center, and a clear space at the end for the coated shrimp.
- Working one at a time, dredge each shrimp in flour, shaking off excess. Dip into the egg, then coat thoroughly in panko. Place breaded shrimp on a plate or tray until ready to cook.
Frying Instructions:
- Heat oil in a deep pan or skillet to 350 – 375°F.
- Carefully add shrimp in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 2 – 3 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove shrimp and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
- Repeat with remaining shrimp. Serve immediately with Bang Bang dipping sauce.
Baking Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F.
- Arrange breaded shrimp in a single layer on a lined baking sheet or tray. Lightly spray or brush with oil for better browning.
- Bake for 6 – 7 minutes, flipping halfway through. Remove once shrimp are opaque and lightly golden.
- Serve immediately with Bang Bang dipping sauce.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
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