Air fryer shrimp is one of the easiest little meals or appetizers you can whip up in minutes. These no-breaded shrimp turn beautifully golden on the outside while staying juicy and tender inside.
I make this often when I want something quick but still flavourful. The lemon zest and paprika give the shrimp a bright, warm flavour and the garlic and onion powder add that savoury depth that makes them so addictive.
It is the kind of dish that works as an appetizer, a light meal, or even a topping for salads, tacos or bowls.
And the best part? No deep frying and everything comes together in 10 minutes. Win win!
You will also love: garlic pepper shrimp, Old Bay shrimp, Buffalo shrimp, Tandoori shrimp and Bacon wrapped shrimp.
Ingredient Breakdown
Shrimp: Medium-large shrimp (21-30 count) work perfectly for this recipe. I have used thawed shrimp here. Pat them dry so the seasonings stick and the shrimp crisp nicely.
Olive Oil: I use extra virgin olive oil to give a beautiful golden color to the shrimp and help the seasonings adhere.
Lemon Zest: I love its delicious zing.
Parsley: Adds colour and I love its subtle taste.
Paprika: Gives warmth and that lovely bright colour. You can use smoked paprika for a deeper flavour.
Garlic and Onion Powder: These two add so much flavour with practically no effort.
Salt and Pepper: For the flavour
Baking Soda: Optional, but it can make the shrimp extra fluffy. I usually skip it, so feel free to leave it out.
Instructions
If using frozen shrimp, immerse in cold water to help thaw them. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and place them in a mixing bowl.
Now prepare the seasoning mix by adding lemon zest, paprika flakes, onion and garlic powder, ground pepper and salt to extra virgin olive oil.
Pour this over the shrimp. Toss shrimp well till they are nicely coated.
Preheat the air fryer to 400F or 200C for 3 minutes. Arrange the seasoned shrimp in one layer in the air fryer basket.
Air fry for 5-6 minutes at 400F or 200C. The shrimp should be nicely curled, getting slightly crisp on the outside but still juicy inside.
Serve these crispy air fried shrimp immediately with lemon wedges and and your favorite dipping sauce. It is a healthy main high in protein.
You can also make a meal by serving them with air fried potatoes, a salad or just some sautéed veggies for a satisfying meal.
Expert Tips
- Pat the shrimp dry before seasoning them so that the seasoning mix adheres well.
- Peel the shrimp completely if you are planning to toss them in a salad bowl or wrap. I leave the tails on if I am planning to serve them as appetisers.
- Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket. Make sure there is no overlapping.
- Start checking around the 4-minute mark. Shrimp cook fast and can go rubbery if overdone.
- Baking soda gives the shrimp a fluffier texture, but it is optional. I often skip it, and the shrimp still turn out great.
- For a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne or red chilli flakes to the seasoning mix.
- Leftovers can be easily stored in an airtight container for upto 2 days in the refrigerator. Heat through before serving.
Crispy Air fryer Shrimp
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 lb. shrimp 21-30 count, peeled and deveined or 500 gm.
- 1½ tbsp. olive oil
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 tsp. parsley flakes
- ½ tsp. paprika
- 1 tsp. garlic powder
- 1 tsp. onion powder
- ½ tsp. Salt
- ½ tsp. black pepper Freshly ground
- ¼ teaspoon baking soda optional - see notes
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Instructions
- If using frozen shrimp, immerse in cold water to help thaw them. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and place them in a mixing bowl.
- Now prepare the seasoning mix by adding lemon zest, paprika flakes, onion and garlic powder, ground pepper and salt to extra virgin olive oil.
- Pour this over the shrimp. Toss shrimp well till they are well coated.
- Preheat the air fryer to 400F or 200C for 3 minutes. Arrange the seasoned shrimp in one layer in the air fryer basket.
- Air fry for 5-6 minutes at 400F or 200C. The shrimp should be nicely curled, getting slightly crisp on the outside but still juicy inside.
- Serve these crispy air fried shrimp immediately with lemon wedges and and your favorite dipping sauce. It is a healthy main high in protein.
- You can also make a meal by serving them with air fried potatoes, a salad or just some sautéed veggies for a satisfying meal.
Notes
Peel the shrimp completely if you are planning to toss them in a salad bowl or wrap. I leave the tails on if I am planning to serve them as appetisers.
Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket. A single layer ensures even cooking and crisp edges.
Start checking around the 4-minute mark. Shrimp cook fast and can go rubbery if overdone.
Baking soda gives the shrimp a fluffier texture, but it is optional. I often skip it, and the shrimp still turn out great.
For a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne or red chilli flakes to the seasoning mix.
Leftovers can be easily stored in an airtight container for upto 2 days in the refrigerator. Heat through before serving.
Rachna says
Such an easy and tasty recipe. You will be hooked once you try.