Air Fryer Coconut Shrimp
Crispy, golden Air Fryer Coconut Shrimp with a subtly sweet tropical flavor, quick to prepare and healthier than traditional frying methods. Perfect as an appetizer, snack, or main dish with less oil and restaurant-quality crunch.
- Author: Emily
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Can be gluten-free if using gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs
Shrimp and Coating
- 12 medium fresh shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour for gluten-free option)
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs (or gluten-free breadcrumbs)
- 3/4 cup desiccated coconut flakes
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Oil spray (for air fryer basket and shrimp)
- Prepare the Breading Stations: Set up three shallow bowls — one with the flour mixed with salt and pepper, one with the beaten eggs, and one with a mixture of panko breadcrumbs and desiccated coconut flakes. This ensures an even, crispy coating on every shrimp.
- Coat the Shrimp: Dip each shrimp first into the flour mixture, shaking off any excess. Then dip into the beaten eggs, coating completely. Finally, press the shrimp into the coconut-panko mixture so the coating adheres well.
- Preheat Your Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for a few minutes to achieve consistent cooking temperature and optimal crispness.
- Arrange Shrimp in the Air Fryer Basket: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with oil to prevent sticking. Place the shrimp in a single layer, ensuring they do not overcrowd the basket to allow proper air circulation.
- Air Fry Until Golden and Crispy: Cook the shrimp for 8 to 10 minutes, flipping halfway through cooking. Spray a light mist of oil on the shrimp before flipping to help achieve extra crispiness and a golden brown color.
Notes
- Use medium-sized shrimp for a perfect bite-sized portion.
- Pat shrimp dry before coating to help the breading stick better.
- Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket to ensure even crisping.
- Flip the shrimp halfway through cooking for uniform crunch.
- Lightly spray oil on shrimp and basket to enhance crispiness without extra grease.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 shrimp
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 350 mg
- Fat: 7 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 15 g
- Cholesterol: 115 mg
Keywords: coconut shrimp, air fryer shrimp, crispy shrimp, tropical appetizer, healthy shrimp recipe, gluten-free shrimp