What kind of shrimp should you use to make breaded shrimp?

You can use any kind of shrimp, just make sure they're raw and not the pre-cooked variety. I tested this recipe with tiger shrimp and white shrimp. I normally save myself time and buy peeled and deveined shrimp, but you can buy shell-on shrimp and peel and devein them yourself. You can also leave the tails on or pull them off.

What size shrimp should you use?

I used large shrimp in this recipe, but you can use shrimp of any size. Just note that smaller shrimp will cook faster, and jumbo will take a little longer.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, just make sure they're thawed first so the breading sticks to them. Frozen shrimp can be defrosted in the refrigerator overnight or quickly thawed in a colander with constantly running cold water. Defrosted shrimp will be wet so make sure they're well drained and patted dry before you start breading them.

Can I use regular bread crumbs instead of panko crumbs?

I haven't tested this recipe with regular bread crumbs. I like using panko crumbs as they're crispy to start with and will absorb a little of the egg mixture as the shrimp air fry. This will ensure the breading turns out super crispy.

How long do you air fry breaded shrimp?

At 400F, shrimp should be air fried for 6-8 minutes. The timing may vary depending on the brand, size and model of your air fryer, as well as the size of your shrimp.

How do you know when shrimp are cooked?

Shrimp should be cooked to at least 145F, according to the USDA. (In Canada, the recommended minimum temperature is 165F). If you don't have a meat thermometer to check, make sure the breading is crispy and browned and the shrimp have gone from translucent to opaque.

How do you reheat air fried breaded shrimp?

The breading on the shrimp will soften in the refrigerator, so you’ll want to reheat it in the oven in order to get it crispy again. (Microwaving will only lead to soggy breading). The shrimp will dry out quickly so I usually reheat them in the oven on 350F for just 5 minutes, or until heated through and crispy on the outside.

Air Fryer Breaded Shrimp

Description

You’ll love these crispy Air Fryer Breaded Shrimp with a simple panko breading and old bay seasoning. They’re oil-free with a crunchy coating and you need just 5 ingredients!

Ingredients

400 grams (about 0.88 lbs) raw shrimp (approx. 32–34 large shrimp)
1/4 cup whole wheat flour
2 large eggs, scrambled
1 cup panko crumbs
2 teaspoons old bay seasoning

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Instructions

Pat the shrimp dry with a paper towel.
Place your flour in a shallow bowl or rimmed plate.
Whisk together your eggs in a separate bowl.
Mix together your panko crumbs and old bay seasoning in another shallow bowl or rimmed plate.
Coat the shrimp in a thin layer of flour, shaking off any excess.
Dip each shrimp into the egg, letting any excess egg drip off.
Coat the shrimp in panko crumbs.
Place the shrimp in a single layer in the air fryer basket and air fry on 400F for 6-8 minutes, flipping at the halfway point.
Repeat with remaining shrimp.

Notes

I usually use one hand to coat the shrimp in flour and dip in the egg, keeping the other hand dry to roll each shrimp in the panko mixture and transfer to the air fryer. If you use the same hand, your fingers will quickly get clumped up with egg and panko crumbs.
Things may still get a little messy so be sure to keep a towel nearby to wipe your fingers.
For quick and even cooking, make sure you air fry the shrimp in a single layer. Depending on the size of your air fryer, this will require at least 2-3 batches.
Make sure you flip the shrimp halfway through air frying to ensure they cook and brown evenly.
Shrimp cook quickly so be careful not to overcook them as they will get chewy. They’re fully cooked when they reach an internal temperature of at least 145F and go from translucent to opaque.
Be sure to check out the other sections above the recipe card for more detailed advice and suggestions for making this recipe.