Air Fryer Shrimp

The first time I made Air Fryer Shrimp, I was a bit apprehensive. Shrimp has always been a go-to indulgence for me, and I wanted to create a dish that would highlight its natural sweetness and delicate texture. I remember the delightful aroma filling my kitchen as the shrimp cooked, creating a crispy exterior while remaining tender inside. It was an instant favorite in my household, and I couldn’t wait to share it with friends and family. The beauty of making Air Fryer Shrimp is that it’s quick, allowing you to whip up a dish that feels gourmet without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, the air fryer gives it that satisfying crunch without the excess oil, making it a healthier option.

Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or just need a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe is perfect. I love how versatile it is; you can serve it as an appetizer, a light meal, or even as a part of a seafood platter. The seasoning brings out the shrimp’s flavor beautifully, with a hint of spice and sweetness that gets everyone coming back for seconds. My kids adore it, and my partner can’t resist the sticky honey garlic glaze that finishes everything off. Making Air Fryer Shrimp has truly become a cherished tradition in our home.

Everything You Need for Air Fryer Shrimp

When it comes to making Air Fryer Shrimp, the ingredients play an essential role in creating a dish that is flavorful and satisfying. Each component adds its unique character to the overall dish, enhancing the natural sweetness of the shrimp.

• 1 pound large shrimp, deveined and peeled: The star of our dish, shrimp are quick to cook and packed with protein.
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: This adds a lovely smoky flavor that elevates the shrimp.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Garlic is always a great flavor enhancer in seafood dishes.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder: This provides a subtle sweetness that blends perfectly with the other spices.
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Essential for bringing out all the flavors in the dish.
• ½ teaspoon black pepper: A little kick to balance the dish.
• ⅛ teaspoon cayenne, optional: For those who enjoy a bit of heat.
• 1 medium lemon, juice and zest: Fresh citrus adds brightness and balances the flavors beautifully.
• 1 teaspoon extra virgin olive oil: Helps to coat the shrimp and adds healthy fats.
• ½ teaspoon hot sauce: A dash for those who like a bit of spice in their glaze.
• 1 clove minced garlic: Fresh garlic builds on the existing garlic flavor and adds depth.
• 2 teaspoons honey: This brings a touch of sweetness that pairs well with the seasoning.

Cooking Instructions for Air Fryer Shrimp

Cooking Air Fryer Shrimp is an enjoyable experience that fills your kitchen with incredible aromas. Once you’ve gathered your ingredients, follow these simple steps to create a mouthwatering dish.

1. Start by preparing your spice mixture. In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon kosher salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, and ⅛ teaspoon cayenne if you’re using it. This blend will infuse the shrimp with a rich flavor.
2. Next, you’ll want to prepare the shrimp. Pat 1 pound large shrimp dry with paper towels. This step is crucial as it helps the seasoning stick better and keeps the shrimp from becoming soggy.
3. Add the dried shrimp to your spice mixture, tossing well to ensure each piece is coated evenly. This is where the magic begins, as those spices cling to the shrimp, promising fantastic flavor.
4. Now, zest 1 medium lemon over the shrimp. Don’t forget to save the juice for later! The zest adds a fragrant citrus note that complements the spices beautifully.
5. Drizzle 1 teaspoon extra virgin olive oil over the shrimp. Toss again to coat everything evenly. The oil helps the shrimp crisp up in the air fryer.
6. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Once ready, add the seasoned shrimp in a single layer in the basket. If you have a lot of shrimp, you might need to work in batches to avoid overcrowding.
7. Air fry the shrimp for about 3 minutes. After 3 minutes, remove the basket and give the shrimp a gentle shake or flip them over. This ensures even cooking.
8. Continue air frying for another 2 to 3 minutes until the shrimp turns opaque and cooked through. You’ll know they are ready when they have a beautiful golden hue and are firm to the touch.
9. While the shrimp cooks, prepare the glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the reserved juice of the lemon, ½ teaspoon hot sauce, 1 clove minced garlic, and 2 teaspoons honey. This glaze adds a delicious finish to the dish.
10. Once the shrimp are done, transfer them to a clean bowl or serving platter. Drizzle the honey garlic glaze over the shrimp and give them a gentle toss to coat. Serve immediately with lemon wedges and fresh parsley for garnish.

Tips and Tricks about Air Fryer Shrimp

If you’re looking to perfect your Air Fryer Shrimp dish, here are some essential tips to keep in mind!

• Storage: Shrimp is best enjoyed immediately after air-frying. However, you can store leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat the shrimp in a dry skillet, air-fry at 360 degrees F for 1 to 2 minutes, or enjoy cold.
• Freezing: If you have extra shrimp, you can freeze them before cooking. Simply place them in a freezer-safe bag, and they should be good for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, thaw overnight in the fridge.
• Control the Spice: If you’re sensitive to spice, consider omitting or decreasing the cayenne pepper and/or hot sauce from the glaze. You can still enjoy the shrimp without the heat!
• Thawing Frozen Shrimp: For frozen shrimp, thaw them overnight in the fridge or place them in a sealed Ziploc bag and submerge in cold water for faster thawing.
• Serving Suggestions: These shrimp pair wonderfully with a fresh salad, rice, or even in tacos. Don’t hesitate to get creative!
• Coating Variations: Feel free to experiment with different spices or marinades to tailor the flavor to your liking. Lemon pepper and Cajun seasoning are great alternatives.

How to Serve Air Fryer Shrimp

Serving Air Fryer Shrimp can be as creative as you like, and it lends itself to numerous delicious pairings. Here are some wonderful ideas:

• With Dipping Sauces: Serve the shrimp alongside a variety of dipping sauces, such as cocktail sauce or a spicy aioli, for a fun appetizer platter.
• On a Salad: Toss the shrimp onto a bed of mixed greens with your favorite vegetables for a light and healthy meal.
• In Tacos: Use the shrimp as a filling for soft tortillas. Top with fresh avocado, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime.
• With Rice or Quinoa: Pair the shrimp with a side of fluffy rice or quinoa and steamed vegetables for a complete and balanced dinner.
• As Part of a Seafood Platter: Create a seafood feast by serving the shrimp with other seafood options like crab cakes or scallops.
• Garnished: Finish your dish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for an extra pop of color and flavor.

FAQ

Conclusion

In conclusion, Air Fryer Shrimp is a delightful dish that combines ease and flavor, making it a perfect choice for any occasion. I encourage you to try this recipe and share it with family and friends. You’ll love how quickly it comes together and how satisfying it is to eat. Happy cooking!

Air Fryer Shrimp

Craving something quick, healthy, and delicious? Try these Air Fryer Shrimp! With their crispy texture and flavorful honey garlic glaze, these shrimp are perfect for a weeknight dinner or an impressive appetizer. Make them tonight for an easy and satisfying meal!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 3 minutes mins

Cook Time 6 minutes mins

Total Time 9 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine American

Servings 4 servings

Calories 180 kcal

Equipment

• Air Fryer

Ingredients

  

• 1 pound large shrimp deveined and peeled
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika or regular paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ⅛ teaspoon cayenne optional
• 1 medium lemon juice and zest
• 1 teaspoon extra virgin olive oil
• ½ teaspoon hot sauce
• 1 clove minced garlic
• 2 teaspoons honey

Instructions

 

• In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon kosher salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, and ⅛ teaspoon cayenne.
• Pat shrimp dry with paper towels and then add them to the spice mixture.
• Zest 1 medium lemon over the shrimp (save juice for later). Drizzle 1 teaspoon extra virgin olive oil over the shrimp and toss to evenly coat the shrimp with the spice mixture, oil, and lemon zest.
• Add the seasoned shrimp in a single layer in the basket or tray of an air fryer, working in batches if needed.
• Air fry at 400℉ (200℃) for 3 minutes, remove the basket or tray, shake or flip the shrimp and air fry another 2 to 3 minutes, or until the shrimp is opaque and cooked through. Transfer the shrimp to a clean bowl or serving platter.
• In a small bowl, whisk together the juice from the lemon, ½ teaspoon hot sauce, 1 clove minced garlic, and 2 teaspoons honey together.
• Drizzle the shrimp with the honey garlic glaze and toss to coat. Serve immediately with lemon wedges and minced parsley.

Notes

• Storage: Shrimp is best enjoyed immediately after air-frying. However, you can store leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat the shrimp in a dry skillet, air-fry at 360 degrees F for 1 to 2 minutes, or enjoy cold.
• Control the Spice: This recipe is sweet, salty, and a bit spicy. If you are REALLY sensitive to spice omit or decrease the cayenne pepper and/or hot sauce from the glaze.
• Thawing Frozen Shrimp: If using frozen shrimp, thaw overnight in the fridge. For faster thawing, take the shrimp out of its package and place them into a sealed Ziploc bag. Submerge the bag of shrimp into a large bowl of cold water and let sit at room temperature for 15 to 20 minutes.

Keyword Air Fryer Shrimp, Healthy Shrimp, Quick Dinner Recipe, Shrimp Recipe