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This recipe has become my go to for quick delicious seafood. The parmesan panko coating gets so perfectly crispy in the air fryer you wont believe its not deep fried. Whether Im making a quick weeknight dinner or entertaining friends these shrimp never disappoint.
Why This Recipe Works
I love how these shrimp give you that satisfying crunch without all the oil of traditional frying. They come together so quickly perfect for those busy nights when you still want something special. Plus you can dress them up or down depending on the occasion.
Everything You Need
- Shrimp: Use fresh or frozen, peeled and deveined shrimp. Jumbo size works best for even cooking and robust texture.
- Panko Breadcrumbs: Opt for Italian seasoned for added flavor. Whole wheat varieties offer a nutritious edge.
- Eggs: Essential for binding the breadcrumb coating to the shrimp.
- Lemon: Both zest and juice brighten the flavor, balancing the richness of the breading.
- Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty, cheesy kick to the coating.
- Spices: Garlic powder, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper provide an Italian-inspired flair.
Lets Make Some Shrimp
- Prepare the Shrimp:
- Pat shrimp dry with paper towels. Toss with oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, and spices. Let sit at room temperature for 15 minutes or refrigerate for up to an hour.
- Set Up Breading Stations:
- In one dish, stir together breadcrumbs and Parmesan. In another, beat the eggs.
- Bread the Shrimp:
- Dip shrimp into egg wash, then coat in the breadcrumb mixture. Ensure an even layer for maximum crispiness.
- Air Fry:
- Preheat air fryer to 390°F (200°C). Lay shrimp in a single layer in the basket, spritz with nonstick spray, and cook for 4-5 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Perfect Pairings
We love these crispy shrimp with creamy coleslaw or a fresh garden salad on the side. For heartier meals I serve them over buttery grits or alongside mac and cheese. They work just as well for casual lunches as they do for fancy dinners.
Sauce It Up
Try dunking these in my basil aioli or classic garlic butter sauce. Sometimes I mix up Old Bay seasoning with Greek yogurt for a tangy dip. The right sauce takes these shrimp from delicious to absolutely irresistible.
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Saving For Later
These keep well in the fridge for about 3 days in a good container. When you want to crisp them up again just pop them in the air fryer at 350°F for a couple minutes. You can even freeze them for up to 3 months just thaw overnight before reheating.
Mix It Up
Sometimes I swap the parmesan for asiago or use gluten free breadcrumbs for friends with dietary needs. A sprinkle of paprika or cayenne adds nice heat. The possibilities are endless make them your own.
Using Frozen Shrimp
While I prefer thawed shrimp for the best breading you can cook them straight from frozen too. Just skip the breading and add a few extra minutes to the cooking time. Either way youll have delicious shrimp in no time.
Why You Need This Recipe
These shrimp give you that perfect crispy bite without the guilt of deep frying. Theyre so versatile too toss them in tacos serve them as appetizers or make them the star of dinner. Once you try them youll be hooked.
Perfect for Any Time
Whether its a quick family dinner or fancy party appetizers these shrimp always fit the occasion. Their quick prep time makes them perfect for busy nights but theyre special enough for celebrations too.
Quick Answers
- Can I use smaller shrimp? Yes just watch that cooking time.
- How should I thaw shrimp? Overnight in the fridge works best.
- Dairy free? Skip the parmesan or use a substitute.
- Why dry shrimp before breading? For maximum crispiness.
- Prep ahead? Yes cook just before serving.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → How long should I marinate the shrimp?
- Marinate for 15 minutes at room temperature or up to 1 hour in the fridge. Don't marinate longer or the lemon juice will start cooking the shrimp.
- → Why do my shrimp need to be dry?
- Patting the shrimp dry helps the marinade stick better and ensures a crispier coating. Excess moisture can make the breading soggy.
- → Can I use frozen shrimp?
- You can use thawed frozen shrimp. Just make sure they're completely thawed and patted dry before starting. Fresh or frozen both work great in this recipe.
- → How do I know when the shrimp are done?
- Shrimp cook very quickly. They're done when they turn pink and opaque, and the breading is light golden brown, usually about 4 minutes total.
- → Can I make these ahead?
- You can store cooked shrimp in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F to keep them crispy, or freeze them for up to 3 months.