Crispy Air Fryer Coconut Shrimp - Restaurant-Style Appetizer

Crispy, golden coconut shrimp made in the air fryer with sweet chili dipping sauce. Restaurant-quality appetizer ready in 15 minutes!

Total Time: 23 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty: easy
#coconut-shrimp#seafood#appetizer#party-food#tropical#quick
Crispy Air Fryer Coconut Shrimp - Restaurant-Style Appetizer

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Pat shrimp dry with paper towels, leaving tails on
  2. Step 2: Set up breading station with three bowls - flour, beaten eggs, and panko mixed with coconut, salt, and cayenne
  3. Step 3: Hold shrimp by tail and coat in flour
  4. Step 4: Dip in egg, letting excess drip off
  5. Step 5: Press into coconut mixture, coating well
  6. Step 6: Place breaded shrimp on plate
  7. Step 7: Preheat air fryer to 400°F (204°C)
  8. Step 8: Spray air fryer basket with cooking spray
  9. Step 9: Arrange shrimp in single layer, not touching
  10. Step 10: Spray tops lightly with cooking spray
  11. Step 11: Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown
  12. Step 12: Mix sweet chili sauce with lime juice for dipping
  13. Step 13: Serve immediately with dipping sauce

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Perfect Coconut Shrimp Tips

  • Leave tails on: Makes great handle for dipping
  • Pat dry: Essential for coating to stick
  • Press firmly: Ensures coconut adheres well
  • Single layer: Don't overcrowd for even crisping
  • Spray generously: Helps achieve golden color

Dipping Sauce Options

Sweet Chili (Classic):

  • Mix sweet chili sauce with lime juice

Mango Salsa:

  • Fresh mango, red onion, cilantro, lime

Honey Mustard:

  • Equal parts honey and Dijon mustard

Piña Colada:

  • Mix pineapple juice, coconut cream, rum extract

Spicy Mayo:

  • Mayo mixed with sriracha and lime

Serving Ideas

As Appetizer:

  • Serve with variety of dipping sauces
  • Garnish with lime wedges

As Main Course:

  • Serve over coconut rice
  • Add tropical fruit salad
  • Include sweet potato fries

Storage & Reheating

Store leftovers in airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes to restore crispiness.

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Last updated: 2 days ago