Air Fryer Popcorn Shrimp
Ready in about 24 minutes.
Published by the RecipeAirFryer editorial team · How we source times · Updated
Times and temperatures come from our reviewed cooking database. Explanatory text on each page is generated from that entry so the numbers stay consistent.
Bite-sized breaded prawns that turn golden and crunchy in the air fryer, perfect for dipping. They cook in minutes and stay light and crisp thanks to the circulating hot air.
Written for 4. Cook in batches rather than stacking if you scale up.
Ingredients
- 450 g small raw prawns, peeled
- 80 g plain flour
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 100 g panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp cayenne
- Salt and black pepper
- Oil spray
Method
- 1Preheat the air fryer to 200°C/400°F for 3 minutes.
- 2Mix the flour with garlic powder, paprika, cayenne, salt and pepper.
- 3Dust the prawns in the seasoned flour, dip in egg, then coat in panko.
- 4Mist generously with oil spray and spread in a single layer.
- 5Air fry for 8-10 minutes, shaking halfway, until crisp and golden.
- 6Serve hot with tartare or cocktail sauce.
Tips for the best results
- Work in batches so the little prawns crisp evenly.
- A light oil mist is key to an even golden colour.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Crowding the basket so air fryer popcorn shrimp steams instead of browning.
- Skipping the shake every 8 min, which leaves one side pale.
- Letting wet coating pieces touch, which peels the crust and keeps it soggy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What temperature and time for air fryer popcorn shrimp?
A typical starting point is 200°C / 400°F for 8-10 min, shake every 8 min. Thickness and wattage change the finish, so check early.
Can I make air fryer popcorn shrimp ahead?
Cook it, cool it quickly, and refrigerate. Reheat in the air fryer at a slightly lower temperature so the outside does not dry before the middle is hot.
How many people does air fryer popcorn shrimp serve?
This recipe is written for 4. For a fuller basket, cook in batches rather than stacking, or add a couple of minutes and shake more often.