Easy Grilled Bang Bang Shrimp: A Healthy Twist on the Bonefish Grill Classic

Fire up your grill for a delightfully lightened-up rendition of the legendary Bang Bang Shrimp, inspired by the beloved Bonefish Grill classic. This recipe delivers all the creamy, spicy, and subtly sweet flavors you crave with just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort. Perfect as a crowd-pleasing appetizer, a flavorful addition to rice bowls, or a quick and healthy main course.

About This Grilled Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe

For years, Bonefish Grill’s happy hour was my go-to for a special treat. The irresistible combination of their iconic Bang Bang Shrimp with a glass of wine felt like a luxurious indulgence, especially during the early days of my marketing career. While I have a deep appreciation for anything fried, there are times when I desire that same fantastic Bang Bang Shrimp flavor in a package that’s not only healthier but also significantly easier to prepare. With this grilled version, there’s no need for the messy, time-consuming process of frying until golden brown!

I’ll be upfront: this isn’t an exact copycat recipe in terms of preparation, but I can confidently promise you that every ounce of the signature flavor is present, enhanced by an incredible smoky depth from the grill. The sauce remains wonderfully creamy, perfectly spicy, and just sweet enough to satisfy all your cravings. It’s a truly satisfying dish that manages to feel light and fresh all at once, making it an ideal choice for a lighter meal.

Beyond being a healthier alternative, the real game-changer here is the time saving. This entire recipe, from start to finish, boasts an active cooking time of just about 15 minutes (not including the crucial skewer soaking time, but trust me, it’s worth it!). You might even find yourself spending more time assembling the delicious sides to complement these succulent shrimp. Its versatility means it effortlessly transforms from a delectable appetizer for gatherings to a wholesome and quick lunch or dinner option.

No outdoor grill? No problem at all! This recipe adapts beautifully to a grill pan on your stovetop, ensuring you can enjoy these amazing flavors any time, anywhere. This grilled Bang Bang Shrimp might just become your new favorite recipe to whip up when friends come over, or simply when you’re in the mood for something extraordinary yet simple.

Note: This content is an updated version of an original post, with refined instructions, expanded details, and helpful tips and tricks to make your cooking experience even better.

Key Ingredients for Bangin’ Grilled Shrimp

Crafting the perfect Bang Bang Shrimp requires a few simple yet essential ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need, along with some helpful tips for each:

• Mayonnaise: The creamy base of our signature sauce. Feel free to opt for light mayonnaise to reduce calories without sacrificing much on texture, or go with full-fat for an extra rich and indulgent taste. For an even healthier alternative, plain Greek yogurt can be an excellent substitute, offering a similar creaminess with added protein.
• Thai Sweet Chili Sauce: This versatile sauce is the secret to the unique sweet and tangy profile of Bang Bang Shrimp. You can find it readily available in most grocery stores in the international aisle, or at any Asian market. We often find a great quality option at Trader Joe’s.
• Sriracha: This hot sauce is the indispensable ingredient for delivering that characteristic spicy kick. Its vibrant flavor and heat can be adjusted to your preference. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different flavored varieties of Sriracha for a truly unique twist on the classic spice.
• Honey: A touch of honey perfectly balances the heat and tang in the sauce, adding a natural sweetness. If you don’t have honey on hand, maple syrup or agave nectar can serve as suitable liquid sweetener substitutes for the sauce.
• Scallions (Green Onions): These fresh green onions bring a vibrant, aromatic flavor and a pop of color to the dish. While optional, they are highly recommended as a garnish and a flavorful addition to the sauce for an extra layer of freshness.
• Shrimp: The star of the show! For the best results, choose big, plump shrimp. Large or jumbo shrimp work wonderfully as they hold up well on the grill and offer a satisfying bite. Always ensure your shrimp are peeled and thoroughly cleaned (deveined) before using them. Leaving the tails on is optional and often preferred for presentation and ease of handling.
• Salt and Pepper: Simple yet crucial for seasoning the shrimp before grilling. A good quality kosher fine salt and freshly cracked black pepper are all you need to enhance the natural flavor of the shrimp.
• Neutral Oil: Essential for greasing your grill grates. Using a high smoke point, neutral-flavored oil like vegetable oil, canola oil, or even avocado oil will help prevent the shrimp from sticking to the grill, ensuring they cook evenly and release easily.

Essential Equipment for This Recipe

Having the right tools can make your grilling experience smoother and more enjoyable:

• Mixing Bowls: A set of sturdy mixing bowls is fundamental for preparing both the bang bang sauce and seasoning your shrimp. You’ll need at least two – one for the sauce and one for tossing the shrimp.
• Grill: Our top recommendation is a pellet grill, like a Traeger grill. Pellet grills impart a wonderful smoky flavor to the shrimp that perfectly complements the creamy sauce. You can use Traeger’s signature pellets or experiment with any flavor you enjoy for a custom smoky profile.
• Wooden or Metal Skewers: If using wooden skewers, remember to soak them! Metal skewers are reusable and don’t require soaking.
• Shallow Container for Soaking Skewers: If you opt for wooden skewers, a shallow dish or baking pan filled with water is essential for soaking.
• Grill Prep and Serve Trays: These are incredibly handy for transporting raw ingredients to the grill and cooked food back to the kitchen, minimizing cross-contamination and keeping things organized.
• Grill Tongs: A good pair of 9-inch tongs is indispensable for safely flipping the shrimp skewers on the hot grill.
• Grill Brush and Cleaner: To maintain your grill and ensure it’s always ready for your next culinary adventure, keep a sturdy grill brush and appropriate grill cleaner nearby. A clean grill prevents sticking and promotes even cooking.

How to Make This Delicious Grilled Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe

Soak Wooden Skewers

If you’re using wooden skewers, this is a crucial first step. Submerge them completely in a shallow container filled with water. Let them soak for at least 30 minutes, or even longer if you have the time. This process helps to saturate the wood, preventing the skewers from catching fire or burning excessively when exposed to the high heat of the grill. You want them to be moist, not dry and brittle, ensuring your shrimp cook perfectly without any woody mishaps.

Prepare the Irresistible Sauce

In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey. Whisk all these ingredients together thoroughly until you achieve a smooth, well-combined, and uniform sauce. Next, stir in the finely chopped green onions (scallions), if you choose to use them – they add a wonderful fresh bite and visual appeal. Once mixed, set your creamy, spicy, and sweet Bang Bang sauce aside. It’s ready to transform your grilled shrimp!

Grill the Perfect Shrimp Skewers

Once your wooden skewers are adequately soaked, remove them from the water and pat them dry slightly. Now, thread about 4 to 5 large or jumbo shrimp onto each skewer. Aim for even distribution and try not to pack them too tightly, as this ensures even cooking. Generously season both sides of the skewered shrimp with kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Before placing the shrimp, remember to lightly oil the grill grates with a neutral oil to prevent sticking. Carefully place the shrimp skewers on the hot grill. Grill for a total of 6 to 8 minutes, making sure to flip them halfway through the cooking process. You’re looking for the shrimp to turn opaque and a beautiful pink color, indicating they are cooked through but still tender.

Add the Signature Sauce to Shrimp

As soon as your shrimp skewers are perfectly grilled, remove them from the heat and arrange them on a serving platter. Now for the “bang” in Bang Bang Shrimp! You have a couple of options here: either brush a generous amount of the prepared sauce directly onto the grilled shrimp while they are still on the skewers, or for a more thorough coating, carefully remove the shrimp from the skewers and gently toss them in a bowl with the sauce until each piece is coated. Serve immediately, ensuring you have extra sauce on the side for dipping, as desired. Garnish with a sprinkle of freshly sliced green onion for an added burst of color and flavor.

Tips and Tricks for Grilled Bang Bang Shrimp Success

Achieving perfectly grilled Bang Bang Shrimp is simple with these helpful tips:

• Taste and Adjust the Sauce: Before coating your shrimp, always taste the bang bang sauce. This is your chance to customize it! You might want to add a pinch more salt or pepper to enhance the flavors. For those who love an extra kick, incrementally add more Sriracha, tasting after each addition, until you reach your desired level of heat.
• Don’t Skip Soaking Wooden Skewers: If you’re using wooden skewers, soaking them in water for at least 30 minutes (or longer) is non-negotiable. This prevents them from burning and charring excessively on the grill, which can impart an unpleasant taste and make your skewers difficult to handle.
• Watch the Shrimp Closely: Shrimp cooks incredibly fast. Overcooking is the quickest way to turn tender, juicy shrimp into rubbery bites. Keep a very close eye on them; as soon as they turn opaque and a vibrant pink, they are done. Remove them from the grill immediately to maintain their perfect texture.
• Marinate for More Flavor (Optional): While this recipe is designed to be quick, for an extra layer of flavor, you could briefly marinate the shrimp (for no more than 15-20 minutes) in a little lime juice, garlic powder, and a dash of olive oil before skewering and grilling. Be careful not to marinate too long, as acid can “cook” the shrimp.
• Mix Up the Protein: The delicious bang bang sauce isn’t just for shrimp! Feel free to experiment with other proteins. Cubed chicken breast or thighs make fantastic bang bang chicken skewers, or you could even try firm white fish or firm tofu for a vegetarian option.
• Serving Temperature: These grilled shrimp are best served hot off the grill. The warmth enhances their flavor and texture.

More tasty shrimp dinners to try out: Grilled Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp Tacos | Lemon Shrimp Artichoke Pasta | Mango Garlic Shrimp Skewers | Roasted Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Frequently Asked Questions About Grilled Bang Bang Shrimp

Are these bang bang shrimp spicy?

The spice level of these Bang Bang Shrimp is entirely customizable! If you follow the recipe as written, you’ll achieve a mild to medium level of heat that’s enjoyable for most palates. However, if you’re a heat seeker, you can easily amplify the spiciness by adding more Sriracha. We recommend adding it incrementally, about 1 teaspoon at a time, to the sauce after it’s initially mixed. Stir well and taste after each addition until you reach your perfect desired level of fiery kick. This way, everyone can enjoy them exactly as they like!

Can I use a grill pan for this recipe?

Absolutely! If you don’t have access to an outdoor grill, a grill pan on your stovetop is a fantastic alternative for cooking these shrimp skewers. The principles remain the same: preheat the grill pan over medium-high heat and lightly oil it to prevent sticking. You will still want to soak your wooden skewers, even for a grill pan, as they can still char and burn. Depending on the size of your grill pan, you may need to cook the shrimp in batches to avoid overcrowding, which can lead to steaming instead of grilling.

Can I make these skewers ahead of time?

While the sauce is excellent for meal prep, we generally do not recommend making the shrimp skewers ahead of time or storing them as leftovers for future meals. Shrimp, unfortunately, tends to get rubbery and lose its desirable texture when overcooked or reheated. For the absolute best flavor and texture, these grilled Bang Bang Shrimp are truly best enjoyed fresh off the grill. However, you can make the delicious bang bang sauce up to 10 days in advance. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and it will be ready to go when you grill your fresh shrimp!

Need some inspiration for appetizers? Check out my appetizer recipes page!

What to Serve with Grilled Bang Bang Shrimp

These incredibly tasty grilled shrimp are sensational on their own as a simple appetizer, but they are also incredibly versatile and can easily be transformed into a complete and satisfying meal. Here are some fantastic pairing ideas:

• Flavorful Rice Bowls: Serve them over a bed of fluffy cilantro lime rice, perhaps with some grilled vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini, for a vibrant and satisfying rice bowl. A squeeze of fresh lime juice over the top adds an extra burst of freshness.
• Light & Healthy Salads: Create a delectable main course salad by placing the grilled shrimp over a generous bed of fresh, leafy greens such as mixed greens, romaine, or spinach. Drizzle with a light vinaigrette or a bit more of the bang bang sauce for an irresistible meal.
• Elegant Surf and Turf: Elevate your dinner by pairing these shrimp with a perfectly grilled steak for an impressive surf and turf experience. The smoky flavors of the steak and shrimp complement each other beautifully.
• Dynamic Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos: Turn them into an exciting taco night! Fill warm tortillas with the grilled shrimp, then top with a crisp, refreshing coleslaw, a squeeze of lime, and a drizzle of extra bang bang sauce.
• Crispy Tostada Toppers: For a delightful crunch, pile the grilled shrimp onto crispy tostadas. Add a layer of creamy guacamole, a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, diced red onion, and any of your favorite taco or tostada toppings for an explosion of textures and flavors.

Looking for the perfect refreshing beverage to complement the creamy, spicy, and sweet notes of these shrimp? Sip on a chilled glass of white sangria – the bright, fruity flavors of the wine and fruit pair exceptionally well with this dish, creating a balanced and delightful culinary experience.

More Juicy Shrimp Recipes to Explore

If you love shrimp as much as we do, you’ll want to try these other fantastic recipes:

• Crunchy Honey Lime Shrimp Tostadas: These zesty and vibrant tostadas are ready in just 30 minutes, making them a perfect easy appetizer or a light, flavorful meal.
• BBQ Bacon Wrapped Shrimp: A simple yet incredibly delicious appetizer that’s always a hit at parties. The smoky bacon perfectly complements the tender shrimp.
• Steamed Shrimp Avocado Wontons: If you’re a fan of delicate wontons, these steamed shrimp and avocado creations are going to become your new favorite. They’re surprisingly easy to make and packed with flavor.

Finally, if you whip up this grilled bang bang shrimp recipe, please be sure to give it a star rating on the recipe card below and/or leave a comment! I absolutely love hearing when you all try out my recipes, and I always make time to respond to every single comment. Feel free to drop any questions you might have below as well!

Oh, and make sure to tag me on Instagram, Facebook, or Pinterest if you create the recipe! Seeing these delicious dishes come to life in your homes is truly my favorite thing, and I love scrolling through all your photos. It honestly means the world to me!

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