• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Skip to footer
Simply Low Cal
  • Recipes
    • Air Fryer
    • Appetizers
    • Breakfast
    • Dessert
    • Main Dish
    • Dips, Dressings & Sauces
    • Drinks
    • Instant Pot
    • Salads
    • Side Dish
    • Slow Cooker
    • Soup
    • Snack
  • Recipe Roundups
  • Tips & Digital Downloads
  • Navigation Menu: Social Icons

    • Email
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • RSS
    • Twitter
    • YouTube
menu icon
go to homepage
  • Recipes
  • Recipe Roundups
  • Printables
  • Shop
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
  • search icon
    Homepage link
    • Recipes
    • Recipe Roundups
    • Printables
    • Shop
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
  • ×

    Home » Air Fryer

    Air Fryer Breaded Sea Scallops

    Published: May 24, 2020 - Last updated: February 9, 2023 by Erika

    air fryer breaded sea scallops thumbnail picture.
    Jump to Recipe
    easy air fryer breaded scallops pin

    This post contains affiliate links. I make a commission from sales. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, read my disclosure policy.

    This easy Air Fryer Breaded Sea Scallops recipe is the best way to prepare healthy "fried scallops" from the comfort of your own home. Fresh sea scallops coated in seasoned bread crumbs are air fried to perfection in under 20 minutes.

    cooked breaded sea scallops on a plate.
    Jump to:
    • Why You'll Love This Recipe
    • Ingredients You'll Need
    • Step-By-Step Instructions
    • Expert Tips
    • Variations
    • Storing & Freezing
    • Recipe FAQ‘s
    • More Air Fryer Recipes You'll Enjoy
    • Easy Air Fryer Breaded Sea Scallops

    Check out my Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers and my Air Fried Pickles for more delicious air fryer recipes!

    Air fryer breaded sea scallops are a great way to change up how you prepare scallops. When cooked correctly, fresh sea scallops are soft with a buttery, slightly sweet flavor which compliments the salty, crunchy breading perfectly.

    The air fryer helps achieve a golden crisp outer-layer while the delicate sea scallops stay rich and juicy. This easy air fryer recipe is great to serve as a quick appetizer or as the main course with your favorite sides.

    What Are Sea Scallops?

    Let's first briefly discuss what sea scallops are and what they taste like. These saltwater-dwelling creatures thrive in deep, cold water all around the world. In the US, the majority of fresh sea scallops are harvested off the coast of New England.

    Scallops are a type of saltwater fish called Bivalve Mollusks meaning they have two shells (like clams, mussels and oysters). The interior muscle surrounded by the two shells is the part we eat.

    The meat tastes similar to lobster or crab. Perfectly cooked scallops are firm yet tender with a buttery, subtlety sweet flavor and a hint of saltiness.

    top view plate of cooked scallops.

    Why You'll Love This Recipe

    • Breading sea scallops before air frying is a unique way to cook and serve this protein-packed seafood.
    • Fresh scallops are rich in protein and loaded with heart-healthy nutrients. They are low in calories and a great addition to your diet.
    • The breading is seasoned just right, adding another dimension of flavor and texture to the already delicious scallop meat.
    • The air fryer helps achieve the perfect golden brown crisp on the outside of the sea scallops without deep frying in calorie-dense oil.

    Ingredients You'll Need

    breaded sea scallops labeled ingredients.
    • Fresh Sea Scallops: Can be found in seafood markets and grocer seafood departments. Select large, firm and dry scallops. Steer clear of any that are shiny or appear soft.
    • Sea Salt: Comes from evaporated seawater, so it just makes sense to use sea salt with seafood. It balances the delicate flavors of the fresh sea scallops.
    • Ground Black Pepper: Adds more flavor to the breading. I prefer freshly ground black pepper because it lends more fresh peppery heat to the recipe than prepared black pepper.
    • Olive Oil: Lightly coats the sea scallops, giving the bread crumbs and seasonings something to adhere to.
    • Garlic Powder: Adds mild garlicky flavor to the breading without overpowering it.
    • Onion Powder: Adds a pleasant onion flavor (sweet and savory).
    • Traditional Bread Crumbs: Are nothing more than crumbled bread yet they are great for adding crunch and a crispy coating to seafood, chicken, pork, etc.
    • Old Bay Seasoning: Traditionally used to season seafood (specifically Maryland blue crabs). The blend itself consists of 18 different herbs and spices and is great sprinkled on way more than just seafood!

    Step-By-Step Instructions

    four image process making breaded scallops.

    The least messy way to bread the scallops is by using 3 separate gallon sized resealable bags. Add olive oil to the first one, salt, pepper, garlic and onion power to the second one and the bread crumbs and Old Bay to the last. Now you're ready to get started.

    Step 1:

    In the first bag (with the olive oil) add the scallops, seal the bag and gently shake until the scallops are coated in oil. With tongs, gently transfer scallops to the second bag with the seasonings, seal the bag and then give the bag a good shake, coating the scallops in seasonings. To finish breading the sea scallops, transfer them to the bread crumb bag, seal and shake.

    Step 2:

    Now it's time to put the air fryer to work but first spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. In the air fryer basket, space out breaded scallops in a single-layer. Do not overcrowd the pieces in the basket. If necessary, work in batches.

    Step 3:

    Cook at 400 degrees F for 12 to 15 minutes, depending on the size of your scallops.

    Step 4:

    Using a meat thermometer check the internal temperature. The scallops are cooked through and safe to eat when the internal temperature reaches 145 degrees F.

    NOTE: You can print the FULL recipe with all ingredients & detailed instructions below!

    scallop on a plate cut in half.

    Expert Tips

    • If the side muscle of the scallop wasn't already removed, simply pull it off with your fingers. The side muscle is consumable. It's just tougher than the rest of the meat.
    • Depending on the size of your sea scallops, plan on 4 to 6 scallops per serving.
    • Lightly spray breaded scallops with cooking spray before air frying for maximum crispiness.
    • If fresh sea scallops aren't locally accessible, you can use frozen. Just be sure to thaw them out completely and pat dry with a paper towel before preparing.

    Variations

    • Switch up the spice. Old bay tastes more smoky than it does spicy. Craving more heat? Use your favorite Cajun seasoning blend instead.
    • Add grated parmesan to the bread crumbs instead of Old Bay.
    • Use panko breadcrumbs instead of traditional breadcrumbs. They serve the same purpose. Panko breadcrumbs just have larger flakes, so the texture of the breading will be slightly different.
    • If scallops aren't your thing, this recipe will also work with shrimp. Select extra large to jumbo peeled shrimp and follow the recipe as is.

    Storing & Freezing

    • Storing leftover scallops: Let scallops cool to temperature before placing in an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
    • Freezing leftover scallops: Place cooled scallops in a freezer safe container or freezer bag and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw completely before reheating.
    • Reheating leftover scallops: To reheat, place scallops in a single-layer in a 375 degree F air fryer for 6 to 8 minutes or until the breading is once again golden brown and the internal temperature is at least 145 degrees. I do not recommend microwaving breaded scallops.

    Recipe FAQ‘s

    Are bay scallops the same as sea scallops?

    Bay scallops are much sweeter and much smaller than sea scallops. Sea scallops are great for pan searing and frying while bay scallops are more often used in soups and stews.

    How many calories are in a serving (4 ounces) of air fryer breaded sea scallops?

    There are approximately 189 calories in a 4 ounce serving.

    Can I bake breaded sea scallops?

    No air fryer? That's okay. To bake, place breaded sea scallops on a baking sheet and cook at 400 degrees F for 16 to 20 minutes (flipping each piece halfway through).

    What should I serve with breaded sea scallops?

    These scallops are great served with homemade French fries, coleslaw and a side of cocktail. For a lighter option, serve hot scallops over a bed of mixed greens with your favorite vinaigrette.

    More Air Fryer Recipes You'll Enjoy

    • air fryer cauliflower rice balls thumbnail picture.
      Air Fryer Cauliflower Rice Balls
    • air fryer butternut squash thumbnail picture.
      Air Fryer Butternut Squash
    • air fryer carnitas thumbnail picture.
      Air Fryer Carnitas
    • air fryer carrot chips thumbnail picture.
      Air Fryer Carrot Chips

    If you love this recipe, please leave a comment with a five-star rating — or simply hit the five-star button in the recipe card. Don't forget to signup for my newsletter.

    air fryer breaded sea scallops thumbnail picture.

    Easy Air Fryer Breaded Sea Scallops

    Erika
    This air fryer breaded sea scallops recipe is the best way to prepare healthy “fried scallops” from the comfort of your home. Fresh sea scallops coated in seasoned bread crumbs are air fried to perfection in under 20 minutes.
    4.63 from 61 votes
    Print Recipe Pin Recipe
    Prep Time 15 minutes mins
    Cook Time 15 minutes mins
    Total Time 30 minutes mins
    Course Air Fryer
    Cuisine American
    Servings 3 Servings
    Calories 189 kcal

    Equipment

    • Meat Thermometer
    • Stainless Steel Mixing Bowls (Set of 6)
    • Power Air Fryer XL 5.3 Quart

    Ingredients
      

    • 12 ounces fresh sea scallops defrosted
    • 2 tablespoons olive oil
    • ½ teaspoon sea salt
    • ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
    • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
    • ½ teaspoon onion powder
    • ¼ cup traditional bread crumbs
    • 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
    Prevent your screen from going dark

    Instructions
     

    • Add olive oil to a large bowl, or resealable bag. Add scallops and coat thoroughly.
    • Combine the salt, pepper, garlic and onion powder to a second bowl, or bag. Transfer scallops from olive oil to seasonings and toss to coat.
    • Combine bread crumbs and Old Bay seasoning to third bowl, or bag. Transfer scallops from seasonings to bread crumb mix and toss to coat.
    • Remove the basket from the air fryer and lightly spray with nonstick cooking spray. Space out the scallops in the basket. You may need to cook scallops in a couple batches so they aren’t overcrowded.
    • Cook at 400°F for 12 minutes. Up to 15 minutes if the scallops are larger, reaching an internal temperature of 145°F.

    Notes

    • Depending on the size of your sea scallops, plan on 4 to 6 scallops per serving.
    • Scallops are considered cooked through and safe to eat when the internal temperature reaches 145°F.
    • Different air fryer brands may cook at different rates, so be sure to keep on eye on food.
    • Lightly spray breaded scallops with cooking spray before air frying for maximum crispiness.
    • If fresh sea scallops aren’t locally accessible, you can use frozen. Just be sure to thaw them out completely and pat dry with a paper towel before preparing.
    • Storing leftover scallops: Let scallops cool to temperature before placing in an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
    • Freezing leftover scallops: Place cooled scallops in a freezer safe container or freezer bag and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw completely before reheating.
    • Reheating leftover scallops: To reheat, place scallops in a single-layer in a 375 degree F air fryer for 6 to 8 minutes or until the breading is once again golden brown and the internal temperature is at least 145 degrees. I do not recommend microwaving breaded scallops.

    Nutrition

    Calories: 189kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 15gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 12mgSodium: 725mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1g

    All nutritional information is based on third-party calculations and should be considered estimates. Actual nutritional content will vary with brands used, measuring methods, portion sizes and more.

    Keyword Easy Air Fryer Breaded Sea Scallops
    Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
    signature

    More Air Fryer

    • air fryer deviled eggs thumbnail picture.
      Air Fryer Deviled Eggs
    • air fryer pizza thumbnail picture.
      Air Fryer Pizza
    • air fryer enchiladas thumbnail picture.
      Air Fryer Enchiladas
    • air fryer chicken fajitas thumbnail picture.
      Air Fryer Chicken Fajitas

    Reader Interactions

    Comments

    1. Charla

      May 24, 2020 at 5:06 pm

      Never tried air frying scallops before, now you have inspired me to try it. Thanks!

      Reply
    2. Andrea Metlika

      May 24, 2020 at 5:31 pm

      Oh my do these sea scallops sound delicious. Very happy this is an air fryer recipe.

      Reply
    3. Angela

      May 24, 2020 at 5:49 pm

      What a fabulous way to make scallops! Perfect texture and the crust is delicious!!

      Reply
    4. Cyndy

      May 24, 2020 at 6:58 pm

      You must have read my mind because I just bought scallops yesterday and was trying to come up with a new way to prepare them! This is perfect and I am always looking for new fun air fryer recipes. Can't wait to test this out.

      Reply
    5. Cookilicious

      May 25, 2020 at 12:44 am

      The more successful recipes I see using an Air Fryer, the more tempted I am to get one!

      Reply
    6. Garima

      May 25, 2020 at 1:32 am

      I never thought of making in air fryer....looks so great

      Reply
    7. linda

      November 22, 2020 at 6:21 pm

      Looks delicious. I wonder, can you substitute panko bread crumbs? Thank you!

      Reply
      • simplylowcal

        November 22, 2020 at 10:34 pm

        Yes, you can do that. 🙂

        Reply
    8. Deborah

      February 04, 2021 at 7:45 pm

      Great recipe. My only quibble is that very fresh scallops (or fish) are best cooked to 125-130 degrees. I understand why your recipe recommends a safe 145 degrees, however the scallops will be overdone. Your yummy scallop recipe will be the headliner for the Superbowl game this weekend!

      Reply
      • simplylowcal

        February 07, 2021 at 3:45 pm

        I understand, Deborah. I go off the USDA food temperature guidelines, but definitely use your best judgement when cooking. I hope you enjoy your scallops and the game. 🙂

        Reply
    9. Catherine Fitzgerald

      July 06, 2021 at 1:03 am

      Delicious and so easy! I will definitely be making these again and often! I used three shallow bowls which are washable rather than plastic bags which aren't eco-friendly or recylable.

      Reply
      • Erika

        July 08, 2021 at 4:49 pm

        I'm glad you enjoyed them, Catherine. Great idea on the shallow bowls. 🙂

        Reply
    10. Joyce

      January 09, 2022 at 5:58 pm

      Try crushed pork rinds instead of bread crumbs very good!

      Reply
    11. Faith Still

      January 20, 2022 at 6:42 pm

      These look delicious 😋

      Reply

    Leave a Reply Cancel reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

    Recipe Rating




    Primary Sidebar

    about me image

    Hi and welcome! My name is Erika and I’m a huge foodie with an appetite for almost anything. I love all foods! I make food that is simple, practical, and delicious. About Me

    THE BEST OF SUMMER

    • dragon fruit popsicles thumbnail picture.
      Dragon Fruit Popsicles
    • sugar free raspberry sorbet thumbnail picture.
      Sugar Free Raspberry Sorbet
    • fresh strawberry popsicles thumbnail picture.
      Fresh Strawberry Popsicles
    • mango nice cream thumbnail picture.
      Mango Nice Cream

    POPULAR RECIPES

    • slow cooker sour cream pork chops thumbnail picture.
      Slow Cooker Sour Cream Pork Chops
    • broiled chicken kabobs thumbnail picture.
      Broiled Chicken Kabobs
    • 100 calorie blueberry muffins thumbnail picture.
      100 Calorie Blueberry Muffins
    • dragon fruit mojito mocktails thumbnail picture.
      Dragon Fruit Mojito Mocktails

    Footer

    Newsletter

    • Sign Up! for emails and updates

    Footer

    ↑ back to top

    About

    • Privacy Policy
    • Affiliate Disclosure
    • Work With Me
    • Accessibility

    Newsletter

    • Sign Up! for emails and updates

    Contact

    • Contact

    As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

    © 2023 Simply Low Cal | Mama Needs Coffee LLC

    This website uses cookies to improve your experience. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. Cookie settingsACCEPT
    Privacy & Cookies Policy

    Privacy Overview

    This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Out of these cookies, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are as essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. But opting out of some of these cookies may have an effect on your browsing experience.
    Necessary
    Always Enabled
    Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. These cookies do not store any personal information.
    SAVE & ACCEPT
    1770 shares