- Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
- Prepare the Breading Stations:
- In one shallow bowl, mix the flour, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- In a second shallow bowl, beat the eggs with water.
- In a third shallow bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Bread the Shrimp:
- Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. Dredge each shrimp in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
- Dip the floured shrimp into the beaten eggs, ensuring they are well coated.
- Finally, coat the shrimp in the panko-Parmesan mixture, pressing gently to adhere the breadcrumbs to the shrimp.
- Arrange the Shrimp:
- Place the breaded shrimp in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Do not overcrowd; cook in batches if necessary. Lightly spray the shrimp with olive oil spray to help them crisp up.
- Air Fry the Shrimp:
- Air fry the shrimp at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time. The shrimp should be golden brown and crispy on the outside, with an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Serve:
- Remove the shrimp from the air fryer and let them cool slightly. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce, such as cocktail sauce, tartar sauce, or a zesty lemon aioli.
Tips for Success:
- Ensure the shrimp are dry before breading to help the coating adhere better.
- Use large or jumbo shrimp for best results; they stay juicy and tender.
- Adjust the seasonings to your preference, adding more spices for extra flavor.
Conclusion: Air Fryer Fried Shrimp are a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional fried shrimp. The air fryer delivers perfectly crispy and golden shrimp without the need for excessive oil. Whether you’re serving them as a main dish or an appetizer, these shrimp are sure to impress with their flavor and texture. Enjoy the ease and convenience of air frying while indulging in this seafood delight!