Air Fryer Breaded Shrimp: How Long To Fry?

Air fryer breaded shrimp is a quick and easy dish to make, requiring minimal oil. The cooking time depends on the size of the shrimp and the amount being cooked. For example, large or extra-large shrimp will take around 6-8 minutes to cook, while smaller shrimp will be done in 5-6 minutes. Frozen shrimp can also be cooked in an air fryer, with similar cooking times to fresh shrimp. However, it is important to ensure that the shrimp are completely thawed before cooking to achieve the desired crispiness.

How to make air fryer breaded shrimp from frozen

Ingredients

• 1 lb frozen breaded shrimp
• Cooking spray
• Dipping sauce (optional)

Utensils

• Air fryer
• Air fryer basket

Method

• Place the frozen breaded shrimp in the air fryer basket.
• Cook at 400°F for 8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
• After 8 minutes, check the shrimp for crispiness. If needed, cook for an additional 3 minutes at a time until they are ready. The exact time depends on the size of the shrimp and the amount being cooked.
• Serve with a dipping sauce, if desired.

Tips

• If you want to make the breaded shrimp from scratch, dip the shrimp in egg and roll in breadcrumbs before placing in the air fryer basket.
• For spicy breaded shrimp, add a pinch of cayenne to the seasonings or serve with a spicy dipping sauce.
• For extra crispy shrimp, use Panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs.

How to make air fryer breaded shrimp spicy

Ingredients:

• 1 lb. peeled, deveined shrimp (large or extra large, such as 26-30 size)
• ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
• 1 tablespoon seafood seasoning (such as Old Bay)
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 large eggs
• Cooking spray
• Spicy dipping sauce (optional)

Method:

• Place the flour in a low shallow bowl. Add the seafood seasoning, salt and pepper and mix well.
• Crack the eggs into a second low shallow bowl and beat lightly.
• Place the breadcrumbs in a third low shallow bowl and add the remaining seafood seasoning, salt and pepper, and stir to combine.
• Dredge a shrimp in the flour mixture, coating both sides. Move to the eggs and coat on both sides. Finally, transfer the shrimp to the Panko breadcrumb mixture and press to help the breadcrumbs adhere on all sides.
• Repeat this process with the remaining shrimp until you have a full, even layer in the Air Fryer tray.
• Spray the tops of the shrimp lightly with cooking spray.
• Preheat your air fryer to 400°F.
• Cook the shrimp in the air fryer for 6-8 minutes, until golden brown.
• Serve immediately with a spicy dipping sauce, if desired.

Notes:

• You can leave the tails on the shrimp if you prefer, as this adds extra flavour while cooking. However, this can make the shrimp a bit more fiddly to eat.
• For an extra spicy kick, add a pinch of cayenne to the seasonings.
• If you don't have any Panko breadcrumbs, regular breadcrumbs can be used, but the shrimp won't be as crispy.

How to reheat air fryer breaded shrimp

To reheat air fryer breaded shrimp, place the shrimp in the air fryer tray and set the temperature to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Reheat for 2-3 minutes.

When reheating, it is okay to stack the shrimp, meaning they do not have to be in a single layer as they do when cooking them for the first time.

It is best to consume the shrimp immediately after cooking, but leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.

What to serve with air fryer breaded shrimp

Air fryer breaded shrimp is a delicious, healthy, and easy-to-make dish. It is a perfect appetizer and can be served in several ways.

Dipping Sauces

You can serve the shrimp with a variety of dipping sauces, such as:

• Cocktail sauce
• Tartar sauce
• Warm marinara sauce
• Spicy sriracha mayo
• Remoulade sauce
• Bang bang sauce
• Sweet & Spicy Sriracha Chili Sauce
• Tzatziki Sauce

Main Course

You can also use the shrimp as a protein for grain bowls, shrimp tacos, fried rice, sushi bowls, or pasta dishes. For a well-balanced meal, serve the shrimp with a side of cilantro lime rice and roasted asparagus.

How to make air fryer breaded shrimp gluten-free

Making breaded shrimp in an air fryer is a quick and easy process that can be made gluten-free with a few simple substitutions. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to make delicious gluten-free air fryer breaded shrimp:

Ingredients:

• Shrimp: Use large or extra-large shrimp, which typically come 26-30 per pound. You can substitute with smaller shrimp but adjust the cooking time accordingly. Ensure the shrimp are peeled, deveined, and have the tails removed.
• Flour: For a gluten-free option, use almond flour or another gluten-free alternative. You will need 1/2 cup of flour.
• Breadcrumbs: For the best crunch, use Panko breadcrumbs, which are gluten-free. You will need 1 cup of breadcrumbs.
• Seasoning: Use your favourite seafood seasoning, such as Old Bay. You will need 1 tablespoon. You can also add other seasonings like paprika, dried parsley, salt, and pepper to taste.
• Eggs: You will need 2 large eggs, beaten.
• Cooking Spray: Use a cooking spray of your choice, such as avocado oil or coconut oil spray.

Method:

• Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 5 minutes.
• Prepare your dredging station: Place the flour and some seasoning in a shallow bowl and mix well. In a second bowl, beat the eggs lightly. In a third bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with the remaining seasoning.
• Dredge the shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. One by one, coat the shrimp in the flour mixture, then dip in the beaten eggs, and finally, coat with the seasoned breadcrumbs. Ensure the breadcrumbs adhere to all sides.
• Place the breaded shrimp in the air fryer basket: Ensure the shrimp are in a single layer and do not overcrowd the basket. Spray the tops of the shrimp lightly with cooking spray.
• Air fry: Cook the shrimp for 5 minutes. Then, open the basket and spray any chalky spots with cooking spray. Flip the shrimp and spray the other side. Continue cooking for another 5 minutes until golden brown.
• Serve: Enjoy your gluten-free air fryer breaded shrimp with your favourite dipping sauce, such as cocktail sauce, tartar sauce, or warm marinara.

Tips:

• If you like it spicy, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the seasoning or serve with a spicy dipping sauce.
• For the best texture, ensure the shrimp are completely thawed if using frozen shrimp.
• You can leave the tails on for extra flavour, but they may be fussier to eat.

Enjoy your delicious and crispy gluten-free air fryer breaded shrimp!

Frequently asked questions