Air Fryer Red Lobster Parrot Bay Coconut Shrimp

Air Fryer Red Lobster Parrot Bay Coconut Shrimp — If you’re looking for a delicious, healthy, and easy way to make Red Lobster-style parrot bay coconut shrimp at home, then an air fryer is here to the rescue!

With this tasty Air Fryer Red Lobster Parrot Bay Coconut Shrimp recipe, you can have a restaurant meal in your kitchen with just a few simple steps. Not only does the air fryer bring out all the flavors and crunch of classic seafood favorites right in your home, but it also keeps them healthier by not requiring any extra oil or grease. You’ll love this indulgent homemade alternative that comes together quickly for weeknight feasting!

Air Fryer Red Lobster Parrot Bay Coconut Shrimp is amazing. If you have ever been to Red Lobster, you can now create one of the most popular dishes in your air fryer.

Everyone loves Coconut Shrimp, and making it in the air fryer is simple: breaded with coconut and air-fried until perfectly crisp. The inside is tender and moist, while you still get the crunch coconut shrimp is known for.

I love shrimp; a great big plate of shrimp, made in the air fryer and coconut air fryer shrimp is amazing!

What Is Red Lobster Coconut Shrimp

Red Lobster’s Coconut Shrimp is one of the restaurant’s most popular appetizers. It consists of shrimp coated in a mixture of shredded coconut and breadcrumbs and then deep-fried until golden brown and crispy.

The coconut gives the shrimp a sweet, tropical flavor that pairs wonderfully with the shrimp’s natural taste. The dish is typically served with a piña colada dipping sauce, a sweet and tangy concoction that perfectly complements the crunchy, coconut-coated shrimp. The combination of flavors and textures has made this appetizer a favorite among many Red Lobster patrons.

Ingredients Needed For Air Fryer Red Lobster Parrot Bay Coconut Shrimp

Red Lobster’s Parrot Bay Coconut Shrimp will surely be a hit if you’re looking for a delicious seafood dish. With crunchy coconut-battered shrimp paired with the creamy, sweet pineapple dipping sauce, this classic restaurant menu item is surprisingly easy to make in your home using an air fryer!

Below, we will cover all the ingredients and step-by-step instructions for making your own Air Fryer Red Lobster Parrot Bay Coconut Shrimp feast!

Remember the step-by-step directions and detailed ingredient list are below in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post, as well as the nutritional information.

• Shrimp: Fresh, peeled, and deveined shrimp is essential for this recipe. Large or jumbo-sized shrimp are best, as they offer a meaty bite and pair well with the coconut coating.
• Shredded Coconut: This key ingredient gives the shrimp its sweet, tropical flavor. Opt for unsweetened shredded coconut to maintain control over the dish’s sweetness.
• Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs are larger and more airy than regular breadcrumbs, ensuring a light and crispy texture when air-fried.
• All-purpose Flour: Used for the initial dredging, the flour helps the subsequent layers adhere to the shrimp properly.
• Eggs: Beaten eggs act as the binding agent, allowing the coconut and panko mixture to stick to the shrimp effectively.
• Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning, these basic spices enhance the shrimp’s natural flavors and complement the coconut’s sweetness.
• Piña Colada Mix (for the sauce): A sweet and creamy mixture commonly used as a base for the dipping sauce accompanying the coconut shrimp.
• Crushed Pineapple (for the sauce): Adding some crushed pineapple provides texture and an extra burst of tropical flavor.
• Granulated Sugar (for the sauce): To achieve the desired sweetness in the dipping sauce, adjust the amount of sugar to taste.
• Water (for the sauce): Helps to achieve the right consistency for the dipping sauce.

Remember, the secret to achieving that restaurant-quality taste is in the balance of flavors and the crispiness of the shrimp. The air fryer provides a healthier alternative to deep frying while still delivering taste and texture.

How to Make Red Lobster Coconut Shrimp In Air Fryer

Red Lobster’s coconut shrimp has been a favorite for years, and it’s no surprise why. The perfect crunchy exterior paired with the succulent sweet interior leaves mouths watering just thinking about it. Now, you can make your delicious version of Red Lobster’s famous dish without spending a fortune eating out in restaurants – all thanks to this air fryer recipe!

Enjoy light, fresh-tasting shrimp coated with crispy shredded coconut and protein-rich egg white batter on any day of the week. Making these tasty morsels will take minimal effort but deliver maximum flavor that’ll have your family and friends asking for more every time! Read on to learn how easy it is to whip up these mouthwatering coconut shrimp treats in an air fryer.

Preparation:

Clean, peel, and devein the shrimp, leaving the tails on. Pat them dry with a paper towel.

In a shallow dish, mix the shredded coconut and Panko breadcrumbs. In another dish, place the all-purpose flour. In a third dish, beat the eggs well, seasoning with a pinch of salt and pepper.

Dredging Process:

Start by lightly coating each shrimp in the flour, ensuring it’s fully covered but shaking off any excess.

Dip the floured shrimp into the beaten egg, ensuring it’s fully coated.

Lastly, press the shrimp into the coconut and Panko mixture. Ensure the shrimp is well-coated, and press the mixture onto the shrimp so it adheres well.

Air Frying:

Preheat the air fryer to 375 degrees F (190°C) for 3-5 minutes. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with a non-stick cooking spray. This prevents the shrimp from sticking and helps in achieving a golden color.

Place the coated shrimp in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Ensure they are not touching to prevent them from sticking together. Set cook time for 10-12 minutes, flipping the shrimp halfway through until golden brown and crispy.

Piña Colada Dipping Sauce:

Combine the piña colada mix, crushed pineapple, granulated sugar, and water in a small saucepan.

Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sauce is heated and the sugar has dissolved. Let it cool slightly before serving.

Serving:

Once the shrimp are done, remove them from the air fryer and serve immediately with the Piña Colada dipping sauce on the side.

Enjoy your homemade Red Lobster Parrot Bay Coconut Shrimp with a tropical touch, all made healthier with the air fryer!

Pro Tips For Making Red Lobster Parrot Bay Coconut Shrimp In Air Fryer

• Shrimp Selection: Choose large, fresh shrimp for best results. They will shrink slightly when cooked, so starting with larger shrimp ensures a meaty bite.
• Consistent Coating: Press the coconut-Panko mixture onto the shrimp firmly. This ensures an even, consistent coating, resulting in a crunchier texture.
• Avoid Overcrowding: Make sure not to overload the air fryer basket. Cooking in batches might be necessary to ensure the shrimp don’t stick together and cook evenly.
• Spray for Extra Crispiness: Lightly spray the coated shrimp with cooking spray before air frying. This promotes a more golden and crispy finish.
• Monitor Closely: Keep an eye on the shrimp, especially during the last few minutes of cooking. Coconut can burn quickly, and you want a golden color, not a burnt one.
• Shake or Flip: Halfway through the cooking time, shake the basket or use tongs to flip the shrimp. This ensures even cooking and browning on both sides.
• Serving Sauce: If you want to recreate the full Red Lobster experience, don’t skip on the Piña Colada dipping sauce. It’s the perfect complement to the crunchy coconut shrimp.
• Storing Leftovers: If you have leftover coconut shrimp, store them in the fridge in an airtight container. When reheating, use the air fryer to retain their crispiness rather than a microwave.
• Flavor Variation: For a spicy kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes to the coconut-panko mixture.
• Frozen vs. Fresh: While fresh shrimp are ideal, you can use frozen shrimp too. Just ensure they’re completely thawed and patted dry before starting the coating process.

With these pro tips in mind, you’re set to recreate the deliciousness of Red Lobster’s Parrot Bay Coconut Shrimp in your kitchen with the added benefit of an air fryer’s healthier cooking method!

How To Reheat Red Lobster Coconut Shrimp In An Air Fryer?

Reheating Red Lobster Coconut Shrimp in an air fryer is a splendid way to regain crispiness without compromising flavor. Preheat your air fryer to 35 degrees F (175°C). Once heated, spread the coconut shrimp in a single layer, ensuring they don’t overlap.

Set cook time for 3-4 minutes or until thoroughly warmed, keeping a watchful eye to avoid overcooking or burning the delicate coconut exterior. The result? Coconut shrimp that taste almost as delightful as they did when first cooked!

FAQ

Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. However, thaw them thoroughly and pat them dry before coating and cooking. Extra moisture from frozen shrimp can make the breading soggy.

Do I need to peel the shrimp before cooking?
Absolutely! The shrimp should be peeled (leaving the tail on for easy handling) and deveined before you start the coating process.

How do I store leftover coconut shrimp?
Store any leftover coconut shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat them in the air fryer to retain crispiness.

Is there a gluten-free variation?
Yes, you can replace regular flour and Panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives available in most grocery stores.

Can I make the Piña Colada dipping sauce at home?
Absolutely. It’s a mix of Piña Colada mix, water, crushed pineapple, coconut, and powdered sugar. The recipe is included below in the recipe card.

Why is my coconut not sticking well to the shrimp?
Ensure that you’re pressing the coconut mixture firmly onto the shrimp. Also, following the standard breading procedure of flour, then egg, then coconut mixture helps the breading adhere better.

Is air frying healthier than traditional frying for this recipe?
Yes, air frying uses significantly less oil than deep frying, making it a healthier alternative while still achieving a crispy texture.

Can I use unsweetened coconut flakes?
Yes, but keep in mind that unsweetened coconut will offer a less sweet flavor. If you prefer a more pronounced sweet taste, stick with the sweetened version.

How do I prevent the coconut from burning?
Keep an eye on the shrimp, especially towards the end of the cooking time. If you notice the coconut starting to brown too much, reduce the cooking time or lower the temperature slightly.

Can I make these in advance for a party?
You can prepare the shrimp (coat them) in advance and store them in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply air fry and enjoy!

More Air Fryer Recipes

• Air Fryer Breaded Shrimp
• Easy Air Fryer Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp
• Air Fryer Butter and Garlic Shrimp
• Air Fryer Shrimp Kebabs

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