Description
A quick and easy 15-minute recipe for crispy, golden coconut shrimp made in the air fryer. This healthy-ish indulgence offers restaurant-quality crunch without the grease or mess, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound large shrimp (21–25 count), peeled and deveined
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay Seasoning
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg, whisked with 1 tablespoon water or milk
- 1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Avocado oil or olive oil spray
- Sweet chili sauce, Thai peanut sauce, or spicy mayo for dipping (optional)
Instructions
- Thaw frozen shrimp in cold water if necessary, then peel and devein. Pat the shrimp completely dry with paper towels; moisture is the enemy of crispiness.
- Season the dry shrimp lightly with salt and pepper.
- Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls: Bowl 1 contains flour mixed with a pinch of salt and garlic powder. Bowl 2 contains the whisked egg and water. Bowl 3 contains the shredded coconut, panko breadcrumbs, and Old Bay Seasoning mixed together.
- Dredge each shrimp in the flour mixture, shaking off excess. Dip into the egg wash, letting excess drip off, then press firmly into the coconut-panko mixture to coat completely.
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Lightly spray the breaded shrimp with oil spray.
- Place shrimp in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they do not overlap. Cook for 4 minutes.
- Flip the shrimp, spray the other side lightly with oil, and air fry for another 4-6 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve immediately with desired dipping sauces.
Notes
Ensure shrimp are completely dry before breading to prevent soggy results. Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches if necessary. For extra crunch, double dip the shrimp in egg and coconut mixture. Reheat leftovers in the air fryer at 375°F for 3-4 minutes to restore crispiness; do not microwave.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8-10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: Asian Fusion
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 6-8 sh
- Calories: 280
- Sodium: 350
- Fat: 14
- Carbohydrates: 18
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 22
Keywords: air fryer coconut shrimp, crispy shrimp, healthy dinner, quick recipes, seafood, air fryer recipes, weeknight dinner