Air Fryer Breaded Sea Scallops – Crispy and Delicious!

Air Fryer Breaded Sea Scallops – Crispy and Delicious! 🦪✨

Dive into a quick, effortless seafood experience with these Air Fryer Breaded Sea Scallops ! Golden brown on the outside and tender on the inside, these scallops are cooked to perfection using minimal oil, making them both indulgent and healthier than traditional frying methods. Whether served as an appetizer or part of a light dinner, this recipe is sure to impress even the most discerning palates.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

The air fryer ensures crispy results without the mess of deep-frying, while the combination of Panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and aromatic spices adds layers of flavor and texture. These scallops are ready in under 15 minutes, making them perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions alike. Plus, their elegant presentation makes them ideal for entertaining!

Ingredients:

1 lb sea scallops , cleaned and patted dry
1 cup breadcrumbs (Panko recommended for extra crunch)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper , to taste
1 large egg , beaten
Olive oil spray (for lightly greasing the air fryer basket and coating the scallops)
Lemon wedges , for serving

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Coating Mixture

In a shallow bowl, combine the breadcrumbs , Parmesan cheese , garlic powder , paprika , salt , and pepper . Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.

Step 2: Bread the Scallops

Dip each scallop into the beaten egg , letting any excess drip off.
Roll the egg-coated scallop in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to help the coating stick firmly.
Place the breaded scallops on a plate and set aside.

Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer

Turn on your air fryer and preheat it to 400°F (200°C) .

Step 4: Cook the Scallops

Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil spray to prevent sticking.
Arrange the breaded scallops in a single layer in the basket, ensuring they don’t touch to allow for even cooking and maximum crispiness.
Spray the tops of the scallops lightly with additional olive oil spray for added browning.
Air fry for 8–10 minutes , flipping halfway through, until the scallops are golden brown and crispy on the outside while remaining tender and juicy inside. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C) .

Step 5: Serve with Zest

Remove the scallops from the air fryer and serve immediately with fresh lemon wedges for a zesty finish.
Optionally, pair with a dipping sauce like garlic aioli , tartar sauce , or even a drizzle of melted butter for added richness.

Tips for Success:

Pat Scallops Dry: Removing excess moisture helps achieve a better breading and crispier result.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese and high-quality Panko breadcrumbs enhance the flavor and texture.
Don’t Overcrowd: Cooking the scallops in batches ensures proper airflow and prevents steaming instead of crisping.
Customize Seasonings: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat or swap out paprika for smoked paprika for deeper smoky notes.
Serve Immediately: For optimal crispiness, serve the scallops right after cooking.

Nutritional Information:

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4 (approximately 6 scallops per serving)
Calories per Serving: ~250 kcal (approximate)

Perfect Pairings:

Garlic Aioli Dipping Sauce: Creamy and garlicky, this sauce complements the scallops beautifully.
Mixed Greens Salad: A light salad dressed with citrus vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish.
Steamed Asparagus: Brighten the meal with some vibrant, seasonal vegetables.
Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up any leftover juices or dipping sauces.

Why It’s Perfect for Any Night:

These Air Fryer Breaded Sea Scallops strike the perfect balance between convenience and luxury. They’re easy enough for a weekday dinner yet fancy enough for date nights or dinner parties. With their crispy exterior, tender interior, and zesty lemon garnish, these scallops deliver big on flavor while staying relatively low-effort.

So gather your ingredients, fire up the air fryer, and prepare to enjoy this delightful twist on classic breaded seafood. Your taste buds—and your guests—won’t be able to resist! 🍴🌊