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These air fryer coconut shrimp are golden, crispy, and packed with tropical flavor. They’re the kind of appetizer that feels a little fancy but couldn’t be easier to pull off—especially in the air fryer. Every time I serve them, someone asks if they were deep-fried. Nope, just the magic of hot air and a crunchy coconut coating!
I love making these for holidays, date nights, or just when I want something crispy and fun. That sweet-savory combo of shrimp and coconut with a little dip of sweet chili sauce? Pure snack heaven.
The air fryer gives you that irresistible crunch without the mess of oil. Plus, these cook up super fast—like 6 to 7 minutes fast. Pair them with a tangy mango dip or classic sweet chili sauce, and you’ve got a restaurant-worthy appetizer on your table.
Let’s make a batch of coconut shrimp that’ll transport you somewhere tropical, no passport required.
🥕 Ingredients Overview
Medium Shrimp (Peeled & Deveined) – Medium size works best for bite-sized crispiness. Leave tails on for easy dipping if you like.
All-Purpose Flour – Helps the egg stick to the shrimp. Use gluten-free flour if needed.
Eggs – Acts as the glue between the flour and coconut.
Shredded Coconut – Unsweetened is best to avoid burning and to keep the flavor balanced.
Optional: Panko Breadcrumbs – Mix with coconut for extra crunch.
Dipping Sauce – Sweet chili sauce, mango chutney, or even spicy mayo work great.
Pro Tip: Pat the shrimp dry before dredging to help the coating stick better.
🔥 Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Shrimp: Pat shrimp dry with paper towels. Set up three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with shredded coconut (plus optional panko).
- Coat the Shrimp: Dredge each shrimp in flour, then dip in egg, then coat with coconut mixture. Press lightly to help it stick.
- Preheat Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 400°F. Lightly spray the basket with oil.
- Arrange Shrimp in Basket: Place coated shrimp in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Don’t overcrowd.Pro Tip: Lightly spray the tops of the shrimp with oil for max crispiness.
- Air Fry: Cook at 400°F for 6–7 minutes until golden and crispy. Flip halfway through.
- Serve with Sauce: Serve hot with sweet chili sauce, mango dip, or your favorite tropical-inspired sauce.
❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using sweetened coconut: it browns too fast and adds too much sugar.
- Skipping the flour: the egg won’t stick properly.
- Overcrowding: leads to uneven cooking.
- Forgetting to flip: can cause one side to burn.
- Not spraying with oil: helps the coconut crisp up better.
🎨 Variations & Add-Ons
- Spicy Coconut Shrimp – Add a pinch of cayenne or chili powder to the flour.
- Panko-Coconut Combo – Mix shredded coconut with panko for an extra crunchy shell.
- Gluten-Free Version – Use almond flour or gluten-free all-purpose flour.
- Lime Zest Twist – Add lime zest to the coconut mix for tropical zing.
- Low-Oil – Skip the spray and use parchment paper for slightly lighter results.
📆 Make Ahead & Storage
You can coat the shrimp ahead of time and refrigerate on a baking sheet (unstacked) for up to 8 hours before cooking.
Leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 2–3 minutes until crisp.
Freezing: Freeze breaded, uncooked shrimp on a tray, then store in a freezer bag. Cook from frozen at 380°F for 8–10 minutes.
🥗 Nutrition Highlights
High in protein, low in oil, and naturally dairy-free. Great for gluten-free diets with simple swaps.
Air Fryer Coconut Shrimp
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Pat shrimp dry. Set up dredging bowls for flour, eggs, and coconut.
- Coat shrimp in flour, dip in egg, then press into coconut mixture.
- Preheat air fryer to 400°F. Spray basket lightly with oil.
- Arrange shrimp in single layer. Spray tops with oil.
- Air fry for 6–7 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Serve hot with dipping sauce.
Notes
(An automated tool is used to calculate nutritional information. Accuracy not guaranteed.)
If you try these air fryer coconut shrimp, let me know your favorite dipping sauce! They’re crispy, tropical, and way easier than deep frying. Want more seafood air fryer magic? Check out my air fryer salmon bites—just as fast and totally delicious.
