Air Fryer Shrimp Recipe
Easy, Quick, and Healthy
Easy, quick, and full of flavor, I love making Air Fryer Shrimp whenever I need a simple yet delicious meal. This dish is perfect for busy days when I don’t have much time to cook. It’s so easy to prepare, and the shrimp come out juicy, tender, and slightly crispy every time. The best part is that they are healthy and packed with protein, making them a great choice for a balanced meal.
I like to make air fryer shrimp for lunch or dinner a lot, especially when I want something light yet satisfying. With its quick cooking time, this recipe has become one of my go-to meals. I make them about once a week because they are easy, tasty, and don’t require a lot of ingredients.

When I make air fryer shrimp, I love using simple seasonings like garlic, paprika, and lemon juice. The flavors blend perfectly, creating a dish that is both fresh and delicious. Sometimes, I add a little cayenne for extra spice, and it gives the shrimp a nice kick.
You can also add some other spices or sauces if you like, such as chili powder, Cajun seasoning, or even a touch of honey, and the result is just Wow! You’ll love it for sure, and for a perfect meal, this recipe never disappoints.
I prefer to enjoy it with rice and steamed vegetables. Some garlic butter or a squeeze of extra lemon makes it even better. This recipe is super easy to make, and the shrimp cook perfectly in just a few minutes.
Why You Need to Try Air Fryer Shrimp?
Air Fryer Shrimp is quick, delicious, and requires minimal effort. The shrimp come out juicy, slightly crispy, and packed with flavor. It’s the perfect meal for busy days, and you don’t need a lot of ingredients to make it taste amazing!
Perfect For:
- Busy Evenings: These shrimp cook in under 10 minutes, making them great for a fast dinner.
- Healthy Eating: They are low in calories, high in protein, and a great option for a light meal.
- Meal Prep: You can make a batch ahead of time and store it for quick meals throughout the week.
- Entertaining Guests: Air fryer shrimp make a great appetizer or main dish for any gathering.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for spice)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Air fryer
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring spoons
- Tongs
- Paper towel
- Knife

How to make Air Fryer Shrimp
Step 1:
Pat the shrimp dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
Step 2:
In a mixing bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, onion powder, cayenne (if using), and lemon juice. Mix well to coat evenly.
Step 3:
Set the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and preheat for 3 minutes.
Step 4:
Place the shrimp in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Air fry for 6-8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the shrimp turn pink and slightly crispy.
Step 5:
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges. Enjoy as a snack, with rice, or in tacos!
Additional Tips
- Pat the shrimp dry before seasoning: This helps them cook evenly and get a better texture.
- Preheat the air fryer: It helps the shrimp cook faster and gives them a slight crispiness.
- Don’t overcrowd the basket: Cook in a single layer to ensure even cooking.
- Shake the basket halfway through: This allows the shrimp to cook evenly on all sides.
- Use fresh or thawed shrimp: Frozen shrimp should be thawed first to avoid excess moisture.
- Add lemon juice after cooking: This enhances the flavor and keeps the shrimp from becoming too sour.
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste: If you like spicier shrimp, add cayenne or chili powder.
Optional Ingredients
- Cajun seasoning – Adds bold and spicy flavors.
- Parmesan cheese – Sprinkle on after cooking for a cheesy touch.
- Soy sauce – A great option for an Asian-style shrimp.
- Honey – Adds a touch of sweetness to balance the flavors.
- Chili flakes – Perfect for an extra kick of heat.
- Butter – Toss the shrimp in melted butter for a richer taste.
How to Serve Air Fryer Shrimp?
My favorite way to serve air fryer shrimp is over a bowl of garlic butter rice. The shrimp soak up the flavors, making every bite irresistible.
You can also serve them on a salad for a fresh, healthy meal. The shrimp add a nice crunch and protein boost to any leafy greens.
For a fun twist, use the shrimp in tacos with avocado, salsa, and a drizzle of lime juice. They make a delicious and easy taco filling that everyone will love.
Recipe Variations
Spicy Shrimp: Add extra cayenne or sriracha for a fiery version. If you love spicy food, increase the red pepper flakes or add chopped jalapeños for even more heat. This version pairs well with a cooling yogurt dip or creamy avocado sauce.
Garlic Butter Shrimp: Toss with melted garlic butter after cooking for a rich and flavorful version. For extra depth, add a touch of fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese.
BBQ Shrimp: Coat with BBQ seasoning before air frying for a smoky and slightly sweet taste. Serve with a drizzle of BBQ sauce or alongside grilled vegetables for a complete meal.
Lemon Herb Shrimp: Use fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or oregano along with lemon zest for a bright, citrusy flavor. This is perfect for pairing with pasta, quinoa, or a fresh green salad.
Teriyaki Shrimp: Toss with teriyaki sauce before or after cooking for a delicious Asian-inspired dish. Serve over steamed rice with a side of stir-fried vegetables for a quick and easy meal.
Coconut Shrimp: Coat the shrimp in shredded coconut before air frying for a tropical twist. Serve with a sweet chili or mango dipping sauce for a fun appetizer or meal.

How to Store
To store, place the cooked shrimp in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 2-3 minutes.
For freezing, store the shrimp in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
FAQ
Can I use frozen shrimp in the air fryer?
Yes! If using frozen shrimp, thaw them first before even cooking. Pat them dry before seasoning to prevent excess moisture from making them soggy.
How long does it take to cook shrimp in the air fryer?
Shrimp cook fast in the air fryer—typically 6-8 minutes at 375°F (190°C). Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking, as shrimp turn rubbery when overdone.
Do I need to flip the shrimp while air frying?
It’s not required, but shaking the basket or flipping it halfway through ensures even cooking and crispier results.
Can I cook shrimp with the shell on?
Yes! Cooking shrimp with the shell on helps lock in moisture and enhances flavor. Just peel them before eating or serve them as peel-and-eat shrimp.
Why is my shrimp rubbery?
Overcooking is the main reason. Shrimp cook quickly, so remove them from the air fryer as soon as they turn pink and opaque.
Can I make an air fryer shrimp without oil?
Yes! You can air fry shrimp without oil, but they may not brown as nicely. A small amount of oil helps with crisping and adds flavor.
What seasonings work best for air fryer shrimp?
Garlic powder, paprika, lemon juice, Cajun seasoning, and Old Bay work well. You can also experiment with teriyaki, honey garlic, or taco seasonings.
Air Fryer Shrimp
Course: AppetizersCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy3
servings5
minutes8
minutes13
minutesThese Air Fryer Shrimp are juicy and flavorful and cook in just minutes. They’re perfect for a quick meal or appetizer, and they pair well with almost anything!
Ingredients
1 lb (450g) shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp garlic powder
½ tsp paprika
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp onion powder
¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for spice)
1 tbsp lemon juice
Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Lemon wedges (for serving)
Directions
- Pat the shrimp dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
- In a mixing bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, onion powder, cayenne (if using), and lemon juice. Mix well to coat evenly.
- Set the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and preheat for 3 minutes.
- Place the shrimp in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Air fry for 6-8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the shrimp turn pink and slightly crispy.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges. Enjoy as a snack, with rice, or in tacos!