Craving coconut shrimp without the guilt of deep frying? This Air Fryer Coconut Shrimp recipe delivers the crunch and flavor of your favorite restaurant version, minus the heavy oil. Enjoy a healthier take on this classic dish with an air fryer, ensuring juicy shrimp with a perfect crispy coating.
- Cuisine: American
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Servings: 4
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy without deep frying: Uses an air fryer instead of oil, keeping the shrimp light and healthy.
- Quick and easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for weeknight dinners.
- Restaurant-quality at home: No need to go out for a taste of your favorite coconut shrimp.
Ingredients
- 1 pound shrimp (raw, large, peeled and deveined with tails attached): Provides the base protein, choose fresh or well-thawed frozen shrimp for best texture.
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour: Helps the coating adhere to the shrimp. A simple base layer for the breading process.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses slight savory notes, enhancing the overall flavor.
- ½ teaspoon salt (plus more to taste): Seasoning essential for boosting flavor throughout.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds subtle heat and depth to the spice blend.
- 2 large eggs: Acts as the binding agent to hold the coating on the shrimp.
- ¾ cup shredded sweetened coconut (or unsweetened): Creates the signature crispy, sweet exterior. Use unsweetened if you prefer less sweetness.
- ¼ cup panko breadcrumbs: Adds an extra layer of crunch to the coating.
- Cooking spray: Ensures browning and prevents sticking in the air fryer.
- Sweet chili sauce (for serving): A suggested pairing for dipping; balances sweetness with a hint of heat.
How to Make It
Step 1: Prepare the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 360°F. Once heated, spray the basket lightly with cooking spray to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
Step 2: Set Up the Breading Station
Prepare three shallow bowls: combine flour, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in the first bowl; whisk the eggs in the second; and mix the coconut with panko breadcrumbs in the third. This organized setup streamlines the coating process.
Step 3: Coat the Shrimp
Dip each shrimp into the flour mixture first, shaking off excess, then coat with the eggs, and finally press into the coconut-panko mix. Ensure a good press to get the coating to stick firmly.
Step 4: Air Fry the Shrimp
Arrange the coated shrimp in the air fryer basket in a single layer without overlapping. Spray the tops with cooking spray, then cook for 6 minutes. Flip, respray, and cook for another 4-6 minutes until golden and cooked through.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
Immediately season with a little extra salt after air frying to enhance flavor. Serve hot, with sweet chili sauce for dipping. Add a sprinkle of parsley for a pop of color if desired.
Recipe FAQs
How can I ensure the coating sticks to the shrimp?
To help the coating adhere better, make sure the shrimp are dry before dredging them in flour. Press the coconut-panko mixture firmly into the surface of each shrimp.
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, but ensure they are thoroughly thawed and patted dry to remove excess moisture, which helps the breading stick better and ensures even cooking.
What if I want them less sweet?
If you prefer less sweetness, opt for unsweetened shredded coconut. You can also adjust the sweetness level by choosing a spicy dipping sauce.
