Name: Oven-Fried Coconut Shrimp with Thai Pineapple Chili Sauce
Ingredients: 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 2 large eggs, beaten; 3/4 cup Panko breadcrumbs; 3/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut; 2 tbsp sesame seeds; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tbsp olive oil (for brushing); 1/2 cup fresh pineapple, finely chopped; 2 tbsp sweet chili sauce; 1 tbsp honey; 1 tbsp lime juice; Zest of 1 lime; 1/2 tsp red chili flakes (adjust for spice level); 1 tsp soy sauce; 1 tsp grated ginger

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This healthier version of a classic favorite delivers all the crunch and flavor of fried shrimp without the extra oil. Oven-frying makes the shrimp crispy and golden, while the Thai Pineapple Chili Sauce provides a tangy, sweet, and spicy complement. Perfect as an appetizer, main course, or for casual gatherings.

Ingredients:

For the Shrimp:

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs, beaten
3/4 cup Panko breadcrumbs
3/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
2 tbsp sesame seeds
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp olive oil (for brushing)

For the Thai Pineapple Chili Sauce:

1/2 cup fresh pineapple, finely chopped
2 tbsp sweet chili sauce
1 tbsp honey
1 tbsp lime juice
Zest of 1 lime
1/2 tsp red chili flakes (adjust for spice level)
1 tsp soy sauce
1 tsp grated ginger

Directions:

Prepare the Shrimp:

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Season the shrimp with salt and pepper.
Set up a breading station with three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with a mix of Panko breadcrumbs, shredded coconut, and sesame seeds.

Coat the Shrimp: 4. Dip each shrimp into the flour, then the eggs, and finally the Panko-coconut mixture. Press gently to adhere the coating evenly.

Bake the Shrimp: 5. Arrange the shrimp on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they don’t touch. 6. Lightly brush each shrimp with olive oil. 7. Bake for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.

Make the Sauce: 8. In a small saucepan, combine all sauce ingredients. 9. Cook over medium heat until the mixture thickens slightly, about 5 minutes. 10. Adjust seasoning and spice level to taste.

Serve: 11. Serve the crispy shrimp hot with the Thai Pineapple Chili Sauce on the side for dipping.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approx. 4 Servings):

Calories: 320 kcal
Protein: 25g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fat: 12g
Fiber: 3g
Sugars: 7g

Enjoy this tropical-inspired, healthy dish that’s as satisfying as it is delicious!

A Healthier Take on a Classic Favorite: Oven-Fried Shrimp with Thai Pineapple Chili Sauce

If you’re craving the indulgent crunch of fried shrimp but want to keep it on the healthier side, this oven-fried shrimp recipe is a perfect choice. By swapping traditional deep frying for oven-frying, this dish delivers the same satisfying crispiness without the excess oil. Paired with a sweet and spicy Thai Pineapple Chili Sauce, it’s an ideal addition to any meal, whether you’re hosting a casual gathering, preparing a weeknight dinner, or crafting an appetizer to impress guests.

The Appeal of Oven-Frying

Oven-frying is a cooking technique that mimics the texture and taste of fried foods without the use of large amounts of oil. In this recipe, a combination of Panko breadcrumbs, shredded coconut, and sesame seeds creates a golden, crunchy coating that closely rivals deep-fried shrimp. Brushing the shrimp lightly with olive oil ensures the coating adheres well and browns evenly in the oven.

This method not only reduces the calorie count but also minimizes the greasy aftermath of traditional frying. The result is a light yet flavorful dish that doesn’t sacrifice texture or taste. Whether you’re focusing on healthier eating or simply looking for a less messy alternative to frying, oven-frying is an excellent option.

The Tropical Inspiration: Thai Pineapple Chili Sauce

What elevates this dish from good to unforgettable is the Thai Pineapple Chili Sauce. Bursting with tropical flavors, this sauce strikes the perfect balance of sweetness, tanginess, and spice. Fresh pineapple forms the base, lending a natural sweetness that complements the shrimp’s savory crunch. Sweet chili sauce, honey, and lime juice add layers of flavor, while red chili flakes and grated ginger bring a spicy kick.

This versatile sauce isn’t just limited to shrimp—it pairs beautifully with chicken, tofu, or even as a dip for fresh spring rolls. The combination of fresh and pantry staples makes it a breeze to whip up, yet it tastes like something straight out of a gourmet kitchen.

The Nutritional Edge

One of the most compelling reasons to try this recipe is its nutritional profile. Each serving provides approximately 320 calories, with 25 grams of protein to keep you satisfied. The use of unsweetened shredded coconut and sesame seeds in the coating adds a touch of healthy fats and fiber, while the pineapple sauce contributes vitamins and antioxidants. Compared to traditional fried shrimp dishes, this recipe is lower in fat and calories, making it a guilt-free indulgence.

Moreover, the shrimp themselves are a lean source of protein, rich in selenium and iodine, essential nutrients for maintaining thyroid health and supporting immune function. Combined with the nutrient-dense sauce, this dish is not only delicious but also a smart choice for health-conscious eaters.

Versatility in Serving

This oven-fried shrimp recipe is incredibly versatile, lending itself to a variety of serving styles. Here are a few ways to enjoy this dish:

Appetizer: Serve the shrimp with the sauce as a dip for a party appetizer. The crispy texture and bold flavors will make it an instant crowd-pleaser.
Main Course: Pair the shrimp with jasmine rice or quinoa and a side of steamed vegetables for a complete, balanced meal. The tropical flavors in the sauce also work beautifully with a light cucumber salad or a fresh mango slaw.
Taco Filling: For a creative twist, use the shrimp as a filling for tacos. Add some avocado slices, shredded cabbage, and a drizzle of the pineapple chili sauce for a quick and satisfying meal.
Snack: If you’re looking for a healthier snack option, these shrimp are perfect for munching on their own or alongside fresh veggies.

Tips for Success

To ensure your oven-fried shrimp turn out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:

Use Large Shrimp: Larger shrimp are easier to handle and provide a meatier bite. Be sure to peel and devein them for the best texture and presentation.
Keep the Coating Light: Press the Panko-coconut mixture gently onto the shrimp to create an even layer. Avoid overcoating, as this can make the texture too heavy.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Arrange the shrimp in a single layer on the baking sheet, leaving space between each piece. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and soggy coating.
Flip Halfway Through: Turning the shrimp midway through baking ensures both sides achieve a uniform golden brown color.
Customize the Sauce: Adjust the spice level of the Thai Pineapple Chili Sauce by increasing or reducing the amount of red chili flakes. For a sweeter sauce, add a touch more honey.

The Perfect Dish for Any Occasion

Whether you’re aiming to impress guests or simply want to treat yourself to a restaurant-quality dish at home, this oven-fried shrimp recipe delivers. The combination of crispy, golden shrimp with the vibrant Thai Pineapple Chili Sauce offers a flavor-packed experience that feels indulgent yet aligns with healthy eating goals.

Conclusion

This recipe for oven-fried shrimp with Thai Pineapple Chili Sauce is a celebration of flavor, texture, and wholesome ingredients. By embracing the oven-frying technique, you can enjoy the best aspects of traditional fried shrimp while keeping your meal lighter and healthier. The sauce, with its bold and tropical profile, takes the dish to a whole new level, offering endless possibilities for pairings and customizations.

Whether served as an appetizer, main course, or party snack, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Its combination of simplicity, healthfulness, and gourmet appeal makes it a standout option for anyone looking to elevate their cooking repertoire. Try it once, and you’ll be hooked!

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Oven-Fried Coconut Shrimp with Thai Pineapple Chili Sauce