Air Fryer Breaded Shrimp Recipe

Shrimp: Peeled and deveined, these are the star of the dish.

Breadcrumbs: These provide the crispy coating.

Eggs: Beaten, they help the breadcrumbs stick to the shrimp.

Flour: Combined with salt and pepper, it forms the first layer of coating.

Salt: Enhances the flavor of the shrimp.

Black pepper: Adds a bit of spice and depth to the flavor.

To ensure your shrimp come out perfectly crispy, make sure to pat them dry with a paper towel before coating them in the flour mixture. This helps the breading adhere better and prevents the shrimp from becoming soggy. Additionally, avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket; cooking in batches if necessary will allow the hot air to circulate evenly around each piece, resulting in a more uniform crispiness.

• shrimp - Substitute with scallops: Scallops have a similar texture and mild flavor, making them a good alternative for breaded seafood dishes.

• breadcrumbs - Substitute with panko: Panko breadcrumbs are lighter and crispier, providing a similar but slightly different texture.

• breadcrumbs - Substitute with crushed cornflakes: Crushed cornflakes offer a crunchy texture and can be a gluten-free option if needed.

• eggs - Substitute with buttermilk: Buttermilk can help the breading adhere to the shrimp and adds a slight tangy flavor.

• eggs - Substitute with aquafaba: Aquafaba (the liquid from a can of chickpeas) can be used as a vegan alternative to eggs for binding.

• flour - Substitute with cornstarch: Cornstarch provides a similar coating and can make the breading extra crispy.

• flour - Substitute with almond flour: Almond flour is a low-carb and gluten-free alternative that adds a nutty flavor.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a salty and umami flavor, though it will also add moisture.

• black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a similar heat but a slightly different flavor profile, often used in lighter-colored dishes.

• Allow the shrimp to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make the breading soggy.
• Place the cooled shrimp in an airtight container. If stacking, separate layers with parchment paper to maintain crispiness.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-4 minutes to regain crispiness.
• For longer storage, freeze the shrimp. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours.
• Transfer the frozen shrimp to a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date and use within 2 months for best quality.
• Reheat frozen shrimp directly from the freezer in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through, until heated through and crispy.

• Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover breaded shrimp in a single layer in the basket. Heat for 3-5 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are warmed through and crispy.

• For a quick oven method, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the shrimp on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 7-10 minutes, turning once, until they regain their crispiness.

• If you prefer the stovetop, heat a small amount of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until they are heated through and crispy.

• For a microwave method, place the shrimp on a microwave-safe plate lined with a paper towel. Cover with another paper towel to absorb moisture. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overcooking. Note that this method may not retain the crispiness as well as others.

• To use a toaster oven, preheat to 375°F (190°C). Place the shrimp on the toaster oven tray and heat for 5-7 minutes, turning once, until they are hot and crispy.

• Air fryer: A kitchen appliance that cooks by circulating hot air around the food, perfect for achieving a crispy texture without deep frying.

• Mixing bowl: Used to combine ingredients such as flour, salt, and pepper, or to beat eggs.

• Whisk: Handy for beating the eggs until they are well mixed.

• Measuring cups: Essential for accurately measuring the flour, breadcrumbs, and other ingredients.

• Tongs: Useful for flipping the shrimp halfway through the cooking process to ensure even cooking.

• Plate: A flat dish to hold the coated shrimp before placing them in the air fryer.

• Fork: Useful for dipping the shrimp into the beaten eggs.

• Baking sheet: Can be used to organize the shrimp before they go into the air fryer, ensuring they are in a single layer.

• Paper towels: Handy for patting the shrimp dry before coating them, ensuring the coating sticks better.

Prepare ingredients in advance: Measure and mix the flour, salt, and pepper ahead of time to streamline the process.

Use pre-breaded shrimp: Purchase pre-breaded shrimp to skip the breading steps entirely.

Organize your workspace: Arrange your bowls and ingredients in an assembly line to speed up the coating process.

Batch cooking: Cook multiple batches of shrimp in the air fryer to save time, ensuring they are in a single layer for even cooking.

Preheat the air fryer: Start preheating the air fryer while you prepare the shrimp to reduce waiting time.