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Crispy Coconut Shrimp Recipe – Easy Sweet Chili Party Appetizer

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This crispy coconut shrimp recipe features juicy shrimp coated in a crunchy coconut and panko crust, served with a tangy sweet chili dipping sauce. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for parties or gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails left on (about 16–20 count per pound, fresh or frozen—thawed)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
  • Vegetable oil or coconut oil, for frying (about 2 cups)
  • 1/2 cup sweet chili sauce (store-bought or homemade)
  • Juice of 1/2 lime
  • 1 teaspoon chopped fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and season lightly with salt and pepper.
  2. Set up three breading stations: one bowl with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with a mix of coconut, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, and paprika.
  3. Dredge each shrimp in flour (shake off excess), dip in egg, then press into the coconut-panko mixture until evenly coated.
  4. Pour oil into a large skillet to about 1/2 inch depth and heat over medium-high until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
  5. Fry shrimp in batches, 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy. Do not overcrowd the pan.
  6. Transfer cooked shrimp to a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain.
  7. In a small bowl, mix sweet chili sauce with lime juice. Garnish with chopped cilantro if desired.
  8. Serve shrimp hot with sweet chili dipping sauce on the side. Sprinkle with extra coconut or cilantro for garnish.

Notes

For gluten-free, use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs. For extra crunch, double-dip shrimp in egg and coconut mixture. Let breaded shrimp rest 5-10 minutes before frying to help coating stick. Shrimp can be baked or air fried for a lighter version. Serve immediately for best crispiness. Leftovers can be reheated in the oven or air fryer.

Nutrition

Keywords: coconut shrimp, crispy shrimp, party appetizer, sweet chili sauce, fried shrimp, easy appetizer, seafood, holiday appetizer, gluten-free option, dairy-free

Find it online: https://lucydishes.com/crispy-coconut-shrimp-recipe-easy-sweet-chili-party-appetizer/