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Air Fryer Coconut Shrimp Recipe

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3.9 from 9 reviews

Crispy and flavorful Air Fryer Coconut Shrimp, perfectly golden and tender in just minutes. This easy recipe uses jumbo shrimp coated in a crunchy mix of shredded coconut and panko breadcrumbs, seasoned with cumin and salt, then air fried for a healthier twist on a classic favorite. Served with a zesty sweet chili dipping sauce, it’s a perfect appetizer or light meal that’s quick to prepare and irresistibly delicious.

  • Total Time: 18 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Shrimp and Coating

  • 1 pound jumbo or large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tail on or off)
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • ½ cup shredded unsweetened coconut
  • ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon ground cumin

Additional

  • Cooking spray
  • Chopped cilantro (optional garnish)
  • Lime wedges (optional)
  • Sweet chili sauce (for dipping)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and allow it to preheat while you prepare the shrimp.
  2. Butterfly the Shrimp (Optional): For a flatter shape, make a shallow cut along the outer curve of each shrimp about three-quarters of the way through, and gently open it without cutting fully through.
  3. Prepare Egg Wash: Beat the two large eggs in a bowl to create an egg wash for coating the shrimp.
  4. Make the Coating Mixture: In a separate bowl, combine the shredded coconut, panko breadcrumbs, all-purpose flour, salt, and ground cumin. Mix well to ensure even seasoning.
  5. Dry the Shrimp: Use paper towels to pat each shrimp dry thoroughly, helping the coating stick better.
  6. Coat the Shrimp: Dip each shrimp into the beaten eggs, then press it firmly into the coconut and breadcrumb mixture, ensuring a thorough and even coating.
  7. Arrange Shrimp in Air Fryer Basket: Place the coated shrimp in a single layer in the air fryer basket, avoiding overcrowding. Cook in batches if necessary to maintain crispiness.
  8. Spray with Cooking Spray: Lightly spray the shrimp with cooking spray to help them crisp up during cooking.
  9. Air Fry the Shrimp: Cook the shrimp for 6 to 8 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time. They are done when pink, curled, opaque, and have a golden-brown coating.
  10. Garnish and Serve: Optionally garnish with chopped cilantro and lime wedges. Serve immediately with sweet chili sauce for dipping.

Notes

  • Butterflying the shrimp is optional but helps them cook more evenly and creates a larger surface area for the coating.
  • Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket; cooking in batches ensures crispiness.
  • Use cooking spray to promote even browning and a crispy texture without adding excess oil.
  • Serve immediately for best texture; leftovers can be reheated in the air fryer for a few minutes.
  • Author: Maya
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 8 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Air Frying
  • Cuisine: American