Description
Air Fryer Coconut Shrimp is a crispy and flavorful dish made with juicy shrimp coated in panko breadcrumbs and sweet coconut, then cooked to golden perfection in the air fryer. This recipe delivers restaurant quality texture with less oil, making it a lighter yet indulgent option for appetizers or main meals. The creamy sweet chili dipping sauce adds the perfect balance of heat and sweetness, making every bite irresistible.
Ingredients
Large tail on shrimp, peeled and deveined
All purpose flour
Kosher salt
Freshly ground black pepper
Panko breadcrumbs
Shredded sweetened coconut
Large eggs
Mayonnaise
Sriracha
Thai sweet chili sauce
Cooking spray or light oil
Instructions
1. Pat the shrimp dry thoroughly using paper towels to remove excess moisture
2. Set up three shallow bowls with seasoned flour in one, beaten eggs in another, and a mixture of panko breadcrumbs and shredded coconut in the third
3. Coat each shrimp lightly in the flour, shaking off excess, then dip into the eggs and press firmly into the coconut breadcrumb mixture
4. Preheat the air fryer and lightly spray the basket with oil
5. Arrange the coated shrimp in a single layer in the basket, leaving space between each piece
6. Cook until the shrimp are golden brown and cooked through, flipping halfway for even browning
7. Mix mayonnaise, sriracha, and sweet chili sauce in a small bowl until smooth
8. Serve the hot shrimp immediately with the dipping sauce on the side
Notes
Dry shrimp are essential for a crisp coating, so take time to pat them well before breading
Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to allow proper air circulation and even cooking
Cooking time may vary depending on the air fryer model, so watch the first batch closely
The coating should appear golden and fragrant, not pale or overly dark
The dipping sauce can be adjusted for heat or sweetness based on personal preference
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American