Air Fryer Coconut Shrimp

Air fryer coconut shrimp are golden, crispy, and perfectly sweet and crunchy without the need for deep frying. Paired with a tangy dipping sauce, they make an irresistible appetizer, snack, or main course. This recipe serves 4 (about 12–16 shrimp).

---

Ingredients:

For the Shrimp:

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails on
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon milk or water
• 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
• Cooking spray or 1–2 teaspoons oil

For the Dipping Sauce:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
• 1 teaspoon lime juice
• Optional: 1/2 teaspoon sriracha for a spicy kick

---

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dipping Sauce

1. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, lime juice, and sriracha (if using).
2. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

---

2. Prepare the Breading Station

1. In one shallow bowl, combine flour, salt, and black pepper.
2. In a second shallow bowl, whisk the eggs with milk or water.
3. In a third shallow bowl, mix shredded coconut and panko breadcrumbs.

---

3. Bread the Shrimp

1. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels.
2. Dredge each shrimp in flour, shaking off excess.
3. Dip into the egg mixture, letting the excess drip off.
4. Press the shrimp into the coconut-panko mixture until evenly coated.
5. Place breaded shrimp on a plate or tray.

---

4. Preheat the Air Fryer

1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3–5 minutes.
2. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

---

5. Air Fry the Shrimp

1. Arrange the shrimp in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving space between each piece. Cook in batches if necessary.
2. Lightly spray the tops of the shrimp with cooking spray or brush with oil to promote crisping.
3. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 6–8 minutes, flipping halfway through.
4. Shrimp are done when golden brown, crispy, and the shrimp are opaque and cooked through.

---

6. Serve

1. Transfer the shrimp to a serving platter.
2. Serve immediately with the prepared dipping sauce.
3. Optional garnishes: lime wedges, chopped cilantro, or extra chili flakes.

---

Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Coconut Shrimp

• Dry shrimp: Patting the shrimp dry ensures the coating sticks and crisps properly.
• Crispier coating: Using half panko and half shredded coconut gives extra crunch without overpowering the sweetness.
• Do not overcrowd: Leave space between shrimp for even cooking; overcrowding leads to soggy coating.
• Check doneness: Shrimp cook quickly; they are done when pink, opaque, and slightly firm.
• Make ahead: Shrimp can be breaded in advance and refrigerated for up to 4 hours before air frying.