Are you ready to elevate your dinner game with a dish that’s bursting with flavor and crunch? Say hello to Air Fryer Cilantro Lime Breaded Shrimp! This mouthwatering recipe combines succulent shrimp with a zesty cilantro-lime coating that’s not only irresistibly delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare. In just 25 minutes, you can serve up a plate of crispy, golden shrimp that will have your family and friends begging for seconds. Perfect as an appetizer or a main course, this dish is sure to impress. Dive into our recipe and discover the secrets to achieving that perfect crunch without the guilt of deep frying!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- 1 lime, juiced
- 1 egg, beaten
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the shrimp. Ensure that the shrimp are peeled and deveined, then rinse them under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This step is crucial to ensure that the breading adheres well.
- In a medium-sized bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, chopped cilantro, salt, and pepper. Mix well until the ingredients are evenly distributed. This mixture will provide a flavorful coating for the shrimp.
- In another bowl, beat the egg until well mixed. The egg will act as a binding agent to help the breadcrumb mixture stick to the shrimp.
- Next, add the lime juice to the beaten egg and stir to combine. The lime juice will add a zesty flavor to the shrimp.
- Take each shrimp and dip it into the egg mixture, ensuring it is fully coated. Allow any excess egg to drip off before moving on to the next step.
- After dipping in the egg, immediately place the shrimp into the breadcrumb mixture. Press gently to ensure the breadcrumbs adhere well to the shrimp. Repeat this process for all the shrimp.
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. Preheating helps to achieve a crispy texture on the shrimp.
- Once preheated, lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Arrange the breaded shrimp in a single layer in the basket, making sure not to overcrowd them. If necessary, cook in batches.
- Cook the shrimp in the air fryer for 8-10 minutes, flipping them halfway through for even cooking. The shrimp should be golden brown and crispy when done.
- Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the air fryer and let them rest for a minute. Serve them hot with additional lime wedges and your favorite dipping sauce, if desired.
- Enjoy your delicious and crispy Air Fryer Cilantro Lime Breaded Shrimp as a delightful appetizer or main dish!
Tips
- Prep Your Shrimp: Make sure your shrimp are thoroughly peeled, deveined, and patted dry. This ensures the breading sticks properly and results in a crispy texture.
- Flavorful Breading: Don’t skimp on seasoning! Feel free to add a pinch of garlic powder or paprika to the breadcrumb mixture for an extra kick of flavor.
- Egg Coating: When dipping the shrimp in the egg mixture, let any excess drip off to avoid a soggy breading. A light coat is all you need for the breadcrumbs to adhere.
- Preheat for Perfection: Preheating your air fryer is crucial for achieving that golden-brown crispiness. It ensures that the shrimp cook evenly and get that delightful crunch.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Arrange the shrimp in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking, so cook in batches if necessary.
- Check for Doneness: Cooking times may vary depending on your air fryer model, so keep an eye on the shrimp. They’re done when they’re golden brown and have reached an internal temperature of 120°F (49°C).
- Serve with Style: Pair your crispy shrimp with fresh lime wedges and your favorite dipping sauce, such as a tangy cilantro-lime sauce or spicy mayo, for an irresistible treat.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 168kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
