Air Fryer Frozen Coconut Shrimp

If you love a quick and easy appetizer or snack idea that everyone can get on board with, then you will really appreciate this delightfully simple air fryer frozen coconut shrimp recipe.

Not only will you love how easy this recipe is to prepare, but you also will marvel at how your air fryer cooks the frozen shrimp to perfection while creating a golden-brown, crispy coconut coating.

Its simplicity and consistent results make this air fryer frozen coconut shrimp recipe an ideal appetizer for gatherings or a delightful treat for any time of the day.

Recipe Video

Why This Recipe Works

This air fryer frozen coconut shrimp recipe works because it's easy, convenient, and it yields delicious results.

It doesn't get any easier than this air fryer frozen coconut shrimp recipe. Simply remove the coconut shrimp from the freezer, pop it in the air fryer, and that's it. In 20 minutes time, you will have a tasty and delightful snack or appetizer for your guests to enjoy.

Air frying frozen coconut shrimp is also a convenient time-saving method compared to traditional baking or deep-frying. The air fryer preheats quickly, and the cooking time is usually shorter than other methods making this recipe a bit of a lifesaver when you have hungry guests to feed.

Additionally, the air fryer's dry, hot environment helps achieve a crispy coconut coating, while cooking them from frozen ensures the shrimp retain their juiciness. Your only problem is going to be having enough for everyone to enjoy!

Ingredients

Frozen Coconut Shrimp:

One of the great things about this air fryer frozen coconut shrimp recipe is how incredibly easy it is. Using frozen shrimp can certainly save you a lot of time and energy in the kitchen, which can be a huge help. However, you may prefer to make your coconut shrimp from scratch. If that's the case, check out the instructions bellow or check Instant Pot Coconut Shrimp for step-by-step instructions and video recipe.

Dipping Sauce:

There are a variety of delicious dipping sauces that you can serve with this air fryer frozen coconut shrimp recipe. Plumb sauce, soy sauce, and even ranch dressing are excellent options that can be found in most kitchens. Kick things up a notch by serving your coconut shrimp with some pineapple salsa, sweet chili sauce, tzatziki sauce, or even some sriracha mayo.

How to Make Air Fryer Frozen Coconut Shrimp

Step One:

Add your shrimp to the air fryer basket.

Step Two:

Air fry for 10 minutes at 350F.

Step Three: 

Open the basket and flip the shrimp or give the basket a shake. This will provide you with more evenly cooked and nicely browned coconut shrimp.

Step Four:

Coat the shrimp with some non-stick cooking spray and air fry for an additional 10 minutes at 350F. They are done when the crust is golden brown.

Step Five: 

Garnish with cilantro, serve with your favorite dipping sauce, and enjoy!

Tips

• Preheating the air fryer for 5 minutes before adding the frozen coconut shrimp ensures even cooking and a crispy exterior.
• If you like a little extra kick, you can experiment with adding some seasonings to your coconut shrimp when you flip it halfway. For example, try adding a pinch of paprika, garlic powder, or cayenne pepper for added flavor.
• Depending on the size of your shrimp and air fryer, there may need to be a time adjustment. Keep an eye out to not overcook, as this leads to rubbery, unpleasant shrimp.

What to Serve With Air Fryer Frozen Coconut Shrimp

These air fryer frozen coconut shrimp are an excellent appetizer to serve when you are having guests over for an event. Serve them alongside some tasty lamb souvlaki skewers and smoked cream cheese crostini to impress hungry guests.

You can even serve them as a fun treat for family game night with some pizza bagels, chicken nuggets, and a variety of dipping sauces.

FAQs

Can I cook the coconut shrimp directly from frozen, or should I thaw them first?

You can absolutely cook these from frozen without needing to thaw them first. In fact, cooking them from frozen is generally recommended. This prevents the shrimp from overcooking while the coconut crust gets nice and brown. Additionally, it saves you lots of time and effort in the kitchen.

How do I know when the shrimp is fully cooked and safe to eat?

Your air fryer frozen coconut shrimp is done when it has a nice golden-brown crust on it. However, if you are still unsure, you can check for doneness by ensuring the shrimp reaches a safe internal temperature of 165F.

How long can leftover air fryer frozen coconut shrimp be stored?

These air fryer frozen coconut shrimp are always best when eaten fresh. However, if you do happen to have some leftovers that you would like to circle back to, you can store them in an airtight container, and they will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

To reheat, simply air fry them at 350F for 5 minutes or until they have regained crispiness.

How to make Homemade Coconut Shrimp

In a bowl, add one cup of all-purpose flour, in another bowl, add 2 large beaten eggs, and in a third bowl, combine 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut, 1 cup panko bread crumbs, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper. Dredge 1 pound of fresh, peeled, and deveined shrimp first in the flour, then in the egg wash, and lastly in the panko mix.

Pre-heat the air fryer to 375F for 5 minutes, lightly coat the air fryer basket with non-stick cooking spray, and gently place your shrimp in a single layer evenly spaced. Air fry for 5-6 minutes, turning halfway through. Cook in batches to avoid overcrowding.

More Shrimp Recipes

Shrimp can be a quick answer to your dinner-time worries when you need something on the go. Check out this collection of more delicious and easy shrimp recipes to help inspire your weekday meals.

• Shrimp Fajitas
• Shrimp Stir Fry
• Shrimp and Polenta
• Shrimp Poke Bowl
• Shrimp Louie Salad