Air Fryer Coconut Shrimp is a makeover of my grandmother’s fried coconut shrimp recipe. Made from fresh shrimp, these coconut shrimp are crunchy and perfectly juicy.
Growing up, I was introduced to this recipe by my grandmother, who lives by the beach. We did not get to meet her very often, except during the holidays. I remember how, during summer holiday,s everyone always requested her to make Coconut Shrimp.
Although the traditional shrimp were oil-fried, this refreshed, modern version is made in an air fryer. Now that I am an adult, I rarely have time to treat myself, but when I do, I make this Air Fryer Coconut Shrimp.
These Air Fryer Coconut Shrimp are equally delicious and healthier. They are perfectly sized for a snack and a good break from chicken and tofu appetizers. If you enjoy quick snacks that are layered with flavors, you need to try out this recipe today.
Equipment Required
- Bowl: To make the breading, I am mixing all the ingredients in a bowl.
- Air Fryer: Since this is an air fryer recipe, I am using an air fryer.
Air Fryer Coconut Shrimp Ingredients & Substitutions
Note: The ingredients in this recipe can serve up to 4 people. You can increase or decrease the quantities for more or fewer servings.
- 1 Pound Shrimp Raw, Large, Peeled And Deveined With Tails Attached
- ¼ Cup All-Purpose Flour: You can also use almond flour for this recipe.
- ½ Teaspoon Garlic Powder
- ½ Teaspoon Salt Plus More To Taste
- ¼ Teaspoon Black Pepper
- 2 Large Eggs
- ¾ Cup Shredded Sweetened Coconut Or Unsweetened
- ¼ Cup Panko Breadcrumbs: I have heard many people use regular breadcrumbs, but keep in mind they won’t be as crispy.
- Cooking Spray
- Sweet Chili Sauce For Serving: You can also use ranch dressing or any dressing of your choice.
Preparation And Cooking Time
| Preparation Time | Cooking Time | Total Time |
|---|---|---|
| 10 Minutes | 12 Minutes | 22 Minutes |
How To Make Air Fryer Coconut Shrimp At Home
Step 1
Start by adding sweetened or unsweetened shredded coconut to a bowl of panko breadcrumbs.
Step 2
Now, to a bowl of all-purpose flour, add garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
Step 3
Next, dip the shrimps in a bowl consisting of two large eggs, followed by the all-purpose flour mixture, and then the breadcrumbs.
Step 4
Now, add the shrimps to the air fryer and bake them for 6 minutes. After one side is ready, flip it over, spray some oil, and bake it again for 4-6 minutes.
Step 5
Once they are ready, serve them with sweet chili sauce and enjoy!
Expert Tips That I Recommend
- When making Air Fryer Coconut Shrimp, it is very important to dry the shrimp off first. If not dried properly, then the batter does not stick properly.
- After dredging the shrimp in the batter, I always shake off the extra. This is important because extra layers of batter will only make the Air Fryer Coconut Shrimp soggy in the end.
- Since air fryers usually have small spaces, it is important to avoid overcrowding the pan. Overcrowding the pan can prevent air circulation, which in turn makes the Air Fryer Coconut Shrimp soggy.
- To make Air Fryer Coconut Shrimp spicier, you can also add cayenne pepper, chili powder, or smoked paprika.
FAQs About Air Fryer Coconut Shrimp Recipe
Nutritional Information Per Serving
I love eating Air Fryer Coconut Shrimp, but unfortunately, they are not a healthy option to enjoy. Being high in calories, one should eat this in moderation. To know more about this, you can have a look at the nutritional chart below:
| Calories | 340 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 13 g |
| Protein | 28 g |
| Fat | 15 g |
| Saturated Fat | 11 g |
| Cholestrol | 368 mg |
| Sodium | 1237 mg |
| Potassium | 216 mg |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugar | 2 g |
| Vitamin A | 119 IU |
| Vitamin C | 5 mg |
| Calcium | 188 mg |
| Iron | 4 mg |
However, the good news about this recipe is that it is soy free, nut free, and dairy free. Hence, people following those diets can have it without any hesitation.
Recipe Variations For Different Diets
- Gluten-Free: To make it gluten-free, you can use any gluten-free flour of your choice. I like to use either coconut flour or almond flour for this recipe. You can also go for gluten-free breadcrumbs while making this recipe.
Storing & Reheating This Recipe
Storing
- Counter Top: After the Air Fryer Coconut Shrimp is ready, I leave it on the countertop for only 2 hours. Beyond this, the chances of contamination increase, which would ruin all of your efforts.
- Refrigeration: When I make Air Fryer Coconut Shrimp ahead of time, I like to refrigerate it. Before storing it, I let it cool down first, after which I store it in an airtight container. If done this way, it can be stored for about 3-4 days.
- Freezing: If you want to freeze your Air Fryer Coconut Shrimp, you can do so. I do this by allowing the Air Fryer Coconut Shrimp to cool down first. Then I pack it in airtight zip-lock bags, which keep them fresh for up to 2 months.
Reheating
- Skillet: To keep things nice and easy, you can reheat Air Fryer Coconut Shrimp in a skillet. I do this by adding oil to a pan and heating it. Then I add the leftovers and toss them around until they are warm enough.
- Oven: When I am reheating Air Fryer Coconut Shrimp in large quantities, I prefer using an oven. I start by preheating the oven to 350 degrees F, after which I layer them in a baking dish. Then I cover it with foil and heat it for 5-7 minutes until it is warm enough.
- Air Fryer: For reheating just a few portions of Air Fryer Coconut Shrimp, I use an air fryer. I start by preheating the air fryer to 375°F, and then I layer them in a single layer. Don’t forget to spray some oil on the basket and let it heat for 2-3 minutes until they are heated and crisp enough.
- Microwave: In my experience, I have observed that reheating Air Fryer Coconut Shrimp in the microwave can make them quite soggy. However, you can still do it by placing the leftovers in a microwave-friendly dish first. Then heat it over medium heat for 1-2 minutes, until it is warm enough.
What To Serve With This Recipe
Once my Air Fryer Coconut Shrimp is ready, I like to serve it with a bunch of dip options. You can serve it with blue cheese dressing, sriracha mayo, Ranch dressing, or aioli dressing. But if you are not a fan of dips so much, you can have it with light or protein-based Salads.
If you enjoy cheesy garlic bread, then do not hesitate to enjoy it with this. For people who enjoy grilled food, they can have it with Grilled Corn On The Cob. Other comfort food options that never go out of style are Garlic Noodles and French Fries for a perfect snack idea.
Finally, if you want some refreshing drink ideas, then go with a mocktail of your choice.
Printable Version
Air Fryer Coconut Shrimp
Ingredients
- 1 Pound Shrimp Raw Large, Peeled And Deveined With Tails Attached
- ¼ Cup All-Purpose Flour
- ½ Teaspoon Garlic Powder
- ½ Teaspoon Salt Plus More To Taste
- ¼ Teaspoon Black Pepper
- 2 Large Eggs
- ¾ Cup Shredded Sweetened Coconut Or Unsweetened
- ¼ Cup Panko Breadcrumbs
- Cooking Spray
- Sweet Chili Sauce For Serving
Equipment
- Bowl
Instructions
- Start by adding sweetened or unsweetened shredded coconut to a bowl of panko breadcrumbs.
- Now, to a bowl of all-purpose flour, add garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Next, dip the shrimps in a bowl consisting of two large eggs, followed by the all-purpose flour mixture, and then the breadcrumbs.
- Now, add the shrimps to the air fryer and bake them for 6 minutes. After one side is ready, flip it over, spray some oil, and bake it again for 4-6 minutes.
- Once they are ready, serve them with sweet chili sauce and enjoy!
Notes
- When making Air Fryer Coconut Shrimp, it is very important to dry the shrimp off first. If not dried properly, then the batter does not stick properly.
- After dredging the shrimp in the batter, I always shake off the extra. This is important because extra layers of batter will only make the Air Fryer Coconut Shrimp soggy in the end.
- Since air fryers usually have small spaces, it is important to avoid overcrowding the pan. Overcrowding the pan can prevent air circulation, which in turn makes the Air Fryer Coconut Shrimp soggy.
- To make Air Fryer Coconut Shrimp spicier, you can also add cayenne pepper, chili powder, or smoked paprika.
Nutrition
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Conclusion
Air Fryer Coconut Shrimp has become one of my favorite recipes because you can enjoy it as a quick appetizer whenever unexpected guests arrive. It is quick, easy, and does not call for much labor.
So, if you are passionate about shrimp and want an easy recipe, then this Air Fryer Coconut Shrimp is a must-try. Make this at home to treat your guests or yourself, and let me know what you think about it.
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