Golden, sweet, and crisp coconut shrimp is a crowd-favorite finger food and it always flies off the serving platter especially if you serve it with spicy sweet dipping sauce. The recipe and process are both EASY. Serve this favorite dish as a meal alongside a fresh salad (try this berry quinoa salad) or set out as an appetizer or snack. All will be devoured in no time!
One reader, Paul, commented: “I made these tonight for an appetizer for us and they turned out PERFECTLY! Thank you so much for such a great recipe. I cannot wait until we have guests to make these for them. ★★★★★”
If you’ve never prepared homemade coconut shrimp, let me teach you how. This is shrimp coated in a coconut breadcrumb topping and quickly fried to perfection.
Tell Me About Easy Coconut Shrimp
- Flavor: This coconut shrimp recipe is unlike many others I’ve tried in the past. I use extra coconut because its sweet flavor perfectly balances the slightly salty shrimp. What a combo! Cool and refreshing sweet chili sauce is a dipping favorite.
- Texture: You’ll love the varying textures here. The shrimp are juicy and plump, and thanks to the breadcrumbs, the coconut crust stays crispy without tasting greasy—a big plus!
- Ease: Prep is a quick 3-step process: dunk the shrimp into the flour mixture, then into a bowl of beaten egg, and then give it a super generous coating of coconut and Panko breadcrumbs before frying. If you’ve never fried shrimp before, don’t get nervous—they cook very fast. You need enough oil to cover the bottom of your skillet and tongs are helpful for flipping.
This shrimp recipe makes the perfect midweek meal or quick appetizer because the ingredients are simple and there’s minimal cook time.
What Kind of Shrimp is Best?
Make sure you purchase large + raw peeled shrimp with tails attached for this recipe. I recommend tails attached because the coconut shrimp are easy to prep, coat, and handle as an appetizer that way. Feel free to remove the tails before starting, if desired.
I like using large shrimp for this recipe since they shrink during the cooking process. If you have medium shrimp, they will work here but they’ll be tiny. Or you can use medium shrimp in this honey garlic shrimp recipe.
Can I Use Frozen Cooked Shrimp?
Yes, you can use frozen cooked shrimp in this recipe. Thaw, then use in this recipe as directed. The shrimp will taste slightly over-cooked, though, since you’re buying it already cooked and cooking it again. For best results, start with raw shrimp.
And if you don’t like seafood, try my coconut chicken recipe instead.
How to Coat Shrimp in Coconut Mixture
To coat the shrimp and ensure the coating actually STICKS, you need to coat them in 3 separate and quick steps just as we do when coating baked chicken fingers. Coat the shrimp in a flour mixture, then beaten eggs, then the coconut breadcrumbs. Each coating serves an important purpose: flour allows the egg to stick, egg allows the coconut to stick, and coconut is our main flavor. Make sure you mix the coconut with Panko breadcrumbs because without the breadcrumbs, the coconut is more likely to fall off.
Coconut Shrimp FAQs
- Can’t I just coat shrimp in coconut? Coating wet shrimp in coconut may sound like it could work, but the coconut falls off. That’s why you need the flour and egg, too.
- Should I use sweetened shredded coconut? Yes, definitely. The sugar on the coconut shreds melts and the coating becomes crisp and slightly caramelized. It’s incredible. If you prefer unsweetened shredded coconut, you can absolutely use that but you’ll lose the sweetness and some crisp.
- Do I have to use Panko breadcrumbs? For this recipe, Panko is better than regular breadcrumbs because it ensures a crunchy texture. Made from crustless bread, it is coarsely ground into airy, large flakes. For that reason, Panko breadcrumbs stay crispier than regular breadcrumbs because they do not absorb as much grease and liquid during the frying process. You can find this type of breadcrumb in the regular breadcrumb aisle of most grocery stores.
We like to use a little more coconut and a little less Panko for the final coating because the more sweet coconut crust, the better! See full written recipe below.
Can I Bake or Air-Fry This Coconut Shrimp?
Many readers have skipped the traditional stove-top frying method for baking or air-frying instead. I have not personally tried them in an air-fryer. You’ll lose a lot of crispiness baking them in the oven, but feel free to try it in a 400°F (204°C) oven. Spread out onto a lined baking sheet, bake for 10 minutes, then flip each and bake for another 7-8 minutes.
Coconut Shrimp Dipping Sauce
You can serve coconut shrimp plain, but it tastes even better with a dipping sauce. (It’s just like serving zucchini fritters with the accompanying Greek yogurt dip.) I’m particular to an orange chili sauce, which is made with store-bought Thai chili sauce and orange preserves. It’s sweet with a little spicy kick.
But pictured here with the coconut shrimp is a store-bought spicy peach chili sauce that I found in the Asian food section of my regular grocery store. My family and I have also tried and loved this dipping sauce.
More Crowd-Favorite Recipes
- Crab Cakes
- Stromboli
- Bacon Wrapped Cheesy Stuffed Jalapeños
- Soft Pretzel Bites
- Pepperoni Pizza Rolls
Easy Coconut Shrimp
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: serves 4
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Golden, sweet, and crisp, coconut shrimp is a crowd-favorite finger food and it always flies off the serving platter especially if you serve it with spicy sweet dipping sauce. Coat raw shrimp in a flour mixture, then dunk into beaten eggs, then cover in your coconut breadcrumbs topping before frying.
Ingredients
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour or whole wheat flour (spooned & leveled)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 3/4 cup Panko bread crumbs
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
- 1 pound raw large shrimp, peeled and deveined with tails attached
- 3–4 Tablespoons vegetable oil or coconut oil (or olive oil)*
- optional for topping: 1 Tablespoon finely chopped cilantro
Serving Sauce (Optional)
- 3 Tablespoons Thai chili sauce
- 6 Tablespoons orange, peach, or apricot jam or preserves
Instructions
- Start with 3 medium bowls. Combine flour, salt, and pepper in one. Beat the eggs in the second bowl. Combine Panko and coconut in the third bowl.
- Dip the shrimp into the flour, then the eggs, and then dredge the shrimp into the coconut mixture, pressing gently to adhere. You want a lot of coconut on each shrimp. Set the coated shrimp aside on a plate as you coat the remaining shrimp.
- Add enough oil to cover the bottom of a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the coconut shrimp in batches such as 7-8 shrimp at a time—do not crowd them in the pan. Flip after 2 minutes and fry the other side for 2 minutes or until golden brown. We prefer ours a little darker, so I fry each side for about 2:30-3 minutes.
- Place the finished coconut shrimp on a plate lined with a paper towel as you fry the rest. Sprinkle with finely chopped cilantro. Mix dipping sauce ingredients together and serve with shrimp.
- Cover and store leftover shrimp in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Notes
- Freezing Instructions: Fried coconut shrimp freezes well, up to 2 months. Reheat for 10 minutes in a 350°F (177°C) oven or until thawed and warm.
- Special Tools (affiliate links): Glass Mixing Bowls | Large Skillet | Tongs
- Shrimp: Large + raw shrimp with tails attached are best for this coconut shrimp recipe. If frozen, thaw before starting. I recommend getting them peeled and deveined because that will save you time at home. I recommend tails attached because the coconut shrimp are easy to prep, coat, and handle as an appetizer that way. Feel free to remove the tails before starting if desired. Can I use frozen cooked shrimp? Yes, you can use frozen cooked shrimp in this recipe but starting with raw shrimp is best. Thaw, then use in this recipe as directed.
- Oil: I prefer frying the coconut shrimp in coconut oil for the best taste. You need enough to coat the bottom of your skillet, usually about 3 Tablespoons or close to 4.
- Serving Sauce: We’ve also tried and loved this dipping sauce too.
Reader Comments and Reviews
Absolutely delicious! I used the air fry mode on the oven for these, and after dredging, I arranged on a cooling rack on a baking sheet, sprayed lightly with cooking spray, and let them “fry” for about 15 minutes. The crisp was perfect!
Super easy recipe. Fantastic results!! I made these and divvied up the shrimp amongst five friends. They RAVED!!
I used a deep fryer, dropping in six shrimp at a time. The coconut-bread crumb mixture stayed attached; it sped up the frying process; the shrimp remained tender and the coating deliciously crisp.
This recipe goes straight into my “keeper” file!
So so simple. I worked in a bar which required frying foods, so this was simple and took me less than the estimated 30 min. Absolutely delicious. So easy. I added creole to the flour. Thank you for this recipe!
Very easy and tasty. I served it with chick filet sauce from the grocery store.
Excellent recipe. I have used it 3 times and my guests loved the coconut shrimp.
Can frozen pre cooked shrimp be used?
Hi Teresa, Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Defrost by the package’s directions before following this recipe. Enjoy!
I made these tonight for an appetizer for us and they turned out PERFECTLY! Thank you so much for such a great recipe. I cannot wait until we have guests to make these for them. I can’t wait to try some of your other recipes (coconut macaroons are next!). The variety on your website is fantastic. It could be my go-to.
So quick easy and delicious. Will make again and again.
We gobbled these up. I added extra sambal to the sauce to kick the heat up a bit and served it with fried rice. Delicious!
Can you use frozen shrimp? (You can delete my other comment)
Hi Cassie! Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Defrost by the package’s directions before following this recipe. Enjoy!
I made these last night and they turned out perfect.
sorry, i forgot to ask in my last question – if this recipe could be made with unsweetened shredded coconut? or will it be bland/have no flavour?
Hi Michelle, you can, just expect a less sweet coating. Many readers have reported using unsweetened coconut with no issues. Let us know if you give it a try!
I tried with both unsweetened and sweetened – both were good, but I preferred the sweetened. I also tried it leaving the skin on and that was god also. Thanks for sharing this recipe! Definitely a keeper.
Yes! I added a tablespoon of Demerara to the shredded unsweetened coconut along with the panko and it came great! Coconutty, but not too sweet. If you have only white sugar I’d make it 2 tsp.
Would this recipe work if I left the skin on the shrimp? I tend to like the texture/flavour of the skin, but not sure if it would work with the added coated layers.. Hopefully get a response as I plan to make it tomorrow!!
Can this be baked instead of fried?
Hi Sharon! We’ve never baked the coconut shrimp before, but some readers have left positive reviews after doing so.
Hi. The recipe looks great and I’m definitely adding to my weekly meal planning. Question-are you able to quickly post/modify with the baking instructions as an option.
Thanks
Hi Lisa, We’ve never baked the coconut shrimp before, but some readers have left positive reviews after doing so.
My family LOVED this. I used GF rice flour and GF Panko. My husband asked me to make it once a week. I used extra Large shrimp and made Jasmin Rice and Broccoli on the side with salad as an additional option. My husband, 3 adult sons and daughter in-law devoured it. Thank you! I’m vegetarian so didn’t try it. I wish i had this recipe 7 years ago. lol
Great recipe. Have made this several times now.
Easy to follow first time I tried a recipe like this it came out perfect made 2 pounds of shrimp and beef and chicken
Made this recipe as directed. Not only was it super easy but it was absolutely delicious! Thank you for sharing! Served along side roasted potatoes and brussel sprouts. Divine! Big hit in my household.
Made it last night and it was perfect. I used an electric skillet at 375 and the shrimp were golden, crispy and delicious. I’m going to try this coating on chicken planks next!
any ideas for different side options besides salad?? i’m blanking!
Hi Sarah! Rolls, rice, homemade bread and roasted vegetables would all make great sides!
I’ve served I’m on it with sautéed green beans and cheddar bay biscuits (the box mix), or a bag salad and baked sweet potatoes, or roasted parm and garlic broccoli florets and some buttered noodles, and tonight we are having it with twice baked cheddar potatoes and some leftover teriyaki roasted veggies
Can I use an air fryer instead?
Yes, definitely! I’m unsure of the exact time, but keep an eye on them and remove when they are golden brown and crispy.
This recipe is so delicious! My husband has been asking for shrimp tacos, so I made this coconut shrimp and paired it with a mango salsa and the combination was great in the tacos. Thanks for another winning recipe!
That’s what I’m going to do! Yumm!
One of the worst recipes I’ve tried. The coating blackened and the shrimp was raw.
The first few of mine were too! I turned down the heat and the rest were great!
I’ve made this recipe several times, but I skip the frying step and instead spray both sides of each shrimp with coconut oil and then air fry for a couple minutes each side. We like the sauce a little sweeter, so I use one part sweet Thai chili sauce to 3 parts orange marmalade. My husband says it’s better than any restaurant coconut shrimp he’s ever had. It’s definitely a favorite!
I’m going to try that! At 400 degrees. What temperature did you use?
What temp did you use on your air fryer for the shrimp?
I set mine somewhere between 350 and 400. I usually donit closer to 350 (my air fryer has a dial). I use the big shrimp (16-21 in a pound) and air fry for a 3-4 mins.
Can you prep the shrimp ahead of time and refrigerate until ready?
Absolutely! Make sure the shrimp are covered when in the refrigerator. Enjoy, Denise!
Everyone raved about these! I made two batches and had to change the coconut oil out about half way through because it got burnt. Not sure coconut oil is the best frying oil, but it adds great taste. Served with a red lobster copy cat piña colada sauce made with sour cream, cream of coconut, and pineapple. So easy and to dye for!
I love coconut shrimp and have tried many recipes, but this one is the best by far! I served it with Franks red hot stinging honey garlic sauce, so delicious!
Best Coconut Shrimp EVER!!
Is there a good way to reheat the next day?
Bake them on 350°F for about 5-10 minutes
I measured everything out ahead of time, followed your recipe, but when we bit into the shrimp, the batter just came off. What did I do wrong? The taste was good, the presentation sucked for me.
When I make this dish I coat the shrimp and put it in the freezer for about 20 minutes, then make sure the skillet is nice and hot before adding the shrimp. That method makes the coating stick better.
Try dipping the shrimp in flour before dipping in the batter.
I made it and it was tasty . But it took me a lot longer than the time listed on the recipe. If I was actually able to make it in the 30 minutes listed as the total time, I’d probably make it again. But based on my personal experience, probably not.
This recipe was absolutely fabulous. I never comment on these things but I had to on this one. It was not that hard and it had fabulous results! I served it with a coconut sauce made of coconut, lemon curd, and heavy whipping cream. To die for!