Crispy, golden popcorn shrimp with barely any oil? Yes, it’s possible! These air fryer popcorn shrimp are crunchy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and ready in less than 25 minutes.
Servings 4servings
Course Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine American
Ingredients
For the Shrimp:
1poundlarge shrimppeeled, deveined, and tails removed
¼teaspoonsalt
¼teaspoongarlic powder
For the Breading:
⅓cupall-purpose flour
2large eggsbeaten
¼cupwater
1½cupspanko breadcrumbs
1teaspoonpaprika
½teaspoongarlic powder
½teaspoononion powder
½teaspoonsalt
¼teaspoonblack pepper
Cooking oil spray
Instructions
Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels, then place them in a large bowl. Add the salt and garlic powder and toss to coat. Add the flour and toss again until the shrimp are evenly coated.
In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs and water until combined.
In another shallow bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
Dip each flour-coated shrimp into the egg mixture, letting the excess drip off. Coat in the seasoned panko. Arrange the breaded shrimp on a plate and let them rest for 5 minutes.
Preheat the air fryer to 400°F for 5 minutes. Arrange the shrimp in a single layer, leaving a little space between each piece. Lightly spray the tops with cooking oil.
Air fry for 4 minutes. Flip the shrimp, spray any dry or pale spots with more oil, and cook for 4 minutes more, or until golden brown and the shrimp reach an internal temperature of 145°F.
Repeat with the remaining shrimp if needed.
Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy!
Notes
Nutrition Disclaimer: Nutrition information is an estimate and will vary depending on the ingredients and brands used.
Pat the shrimp completely dry before seasoning so the breading sticks better.
Don't overcrowd the air fryer basket. Cook in batches for the crispiest results.
If using frozen shrimp, thaw completely and pat dry before breading.