Air Fryer Breaded Sea Scallops Recipe

Sea scallops: Fresh or thawed, these are the star of the dish, providing a tender and juicy texture.

Breadcrumbs: Used for the crispy coating, you can choose plain or seasoned depending on your flavor preference.

Parmesan cheese: Adds a rich, savory taste to the breading mixture.

Olive oil: Helps the breadcrumbs adhere to the scallops and adds a subtle flavor.

Garlic powder: Infuses the breading with a hint of garlic flavor.

Paprika: Adds a mild spice and a beautiful color to the breading.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

Black pepper: Adds a touch of heat and depth to the breading mixture.

When preparing sea scallops for this recipe, ensure they are thoroughly patted dry with paper towels. Excess moisture can prevent the breadcrumb mixture from adhering properly and may result in a less crispy texture. Additionally, when coating the scallops with olive oil, use a brush to apply an even layer, ensuring that every part of the scallop is covered. This helps the breadcrumbs stick better and promotes even browning during the air frying process.

• sea scallops - Substitute with large shrimp: Large shrimp have a similar texture and cook quickly, making them a good alternative to sea scallops.

• plain or seasoned breadcrumbs - Substitute with panko breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs provide a lighter, crispier texture compared to regular breadcrumbs.

• plain or seasoned breadcrumbs - Substitute with crushed cornflakes: Crushed cornflakes can add a crunchy texture and a slightly sweet flavor.

• grated parmesan cheese - Substitute with grated pecorino romano: Pecorino Romano has a similar salty and nutty flavor profile, making it a good substitute.

• grated parmesan cheese - Substitute with nutritional yeast: Nutritional yeast provides a cheesy flavor and is a great option for those avoiding dairy.

• olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a high smoke point and a neutral flavor, making it a suitable alternative for cooking.

• olive oil - Substitute with melted butter: Melted butter can add a rich flavor and help with browning.

• garlic powder - Substitute with fresh minced garlic: Fresh minced garlic provides a more intense and aromatic flavor.

• garlic powder - Substitute with onion powder: Onion powder can provide a similar depth of flavor if garlic is not available.

• paprika - Substitute with smoked paprika: Smoked paprika adds a smoky flavor in addition to the mild heat of regular paprika.

• paprika - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper can add a bit more heat and spice to the dish.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a salty and umami flavor, but use sparingly to avoid overpowering the dish.

• black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a similar heat but a slightly different flavor profile, making it a good alternative.

• Allow the sea scallops to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make the breading soggy.
• Place the cooled scallops in an airtight container. If stacking, use parchment paper between layers to maintain the crispy texture.
• Store the container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freezing is recommended.
• To freeze, arrange the scallops on a baking sheet in a single layer. Freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours. This prevents them from sticking together.
• Transfer the frozen scallops to a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date for easy tracking.
• When ready to reheat, preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the frozen scallops in the basket in a single layer.
• Air fry for 5-7 minutes, turning halfway through, until heated through and crispy. Avoid microwaving as it can make the breading soggy.
• Serve immediately with a fresh squeeze of lemon juice or your favorite dipping sauce for a delightful crunch.

• Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover breaded sea scallops in a single layer in the basket. Air fry for 3-5 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.

• For a quick oven method, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the scallops on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are warmed and the coating is crisp.

• If you prefer the stovetop, heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of olive oil or butter. Place the scallops in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until they are heated through and the breading is crispy.

• For a microwave option, place the scallops on a microwave-safe plate. Cover them with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out. Microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through. Note that this method may not retain the crispiness of the breading.

• Air fryer: This is the primary cooking appliance used to cook the breaded sea scallops to a golden brown and crispy texture.

• Mixing bowl: Used to combine the breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.

• Paper towels: Essential for patting the sea scallops dry to ensure the breading adheres properly.

• Measuring cups: Used to measure out the breadcrumbs and grated parmesan cheese accurately.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure the garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper precisely.

• Tongs: Useful for turning the scallops halfway through the air frying process without disturbing the breading.

• Small bowl: Used to hold the olive oil for coating the sea scallops before dredging them in the breadcrumb mixture.

• Air fryer basket: The component of the air fryer where the breaded scallops are placed in a single layer for cooking.

• Serving plate: Used to serve the cooked scallops immediately after they are done air frying.

• Dipping sauce bowl: Optional, but useful for serving your favorite dipping sauce alongside the scallops.

Pre-measure ingredients: Measure and prepare all ingredients ahead of time to streamline the cooking process.

Use pre-grated cheese: Save time by using pre-grated parmesan cheese instead of grating it yourself.

Dry scallops thoroughly: Ensure sea scallops are completely dry to help the breadcrumb mixture adhere better and cook evenly.

Single layer cooking: Arrange scallops in a single layer in the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking and crispiness.

Quick cleanup: Line the air fryer basket with parchment paper for easier cleanup.