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Easy Fried Shrimp (Air Fryer Style)

Easy Fried Shrimp (Air Fryer Style) - Crispy, Fast, and Foolproof

Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Pre-heat 5 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings 4 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound large shrimp (16–20 count), peeled and deveined, tails on or off
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/3 cup cornstarch
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan (optional but tasty)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika (sweet or smoked)
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to finish
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Cooking spray or neutral oil in a mister
  • Lemon wedges, for serving
  • Optional dip: tartar sauce, cocktail sauce, spicy mayo, or honey mustard

Instructions
 

  • Prep the shrimp: Pat the shrimp very dry with paper towels. Dry shrimp crisp up better and won’t steam in the air fryer.
  • Preheat: Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3–5 minutes. A hot basket helps the coating set and brown quickly.
  • Set up three bowls: In one bowl, mix the flour and cornstarch. In a second bowl, beat the eggs. In a third bowl, combine panko, Parmesan, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
  • Coat the shrimp: Working in batches, dredge each shrimp in the flour mixture, shake off excess, dip in egg, then press into the panko mixture until well coated. Place on a plate.
  • Oil lightly: Spray the coated shrimp on both sides with cooking spray or mist lightly with oil. This helps with browning and crunch.
  • Arrange in the basket: Place shrimp in a single layer in the preheated basket, leaving space between pieces. Don’t overcrowd. Cook in batches if needed.
  • Air fry: Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 6–8 minutes, flipping halfway through. Shrimp should be golden and just opaque in the center. The coating should feel crisp.
  • Season and serve: Sprinkle with a pinch of salt right after cooking. Serve hot with lemon wedges and your favorite sauce.
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