When you’re craving something light, quick, and bursting with flavor, Air Fryer Spicy Shrimp is the answer. This dish is foolproof, delicious, and takes only minutes to prepare. Perfect as an appetizer, main dish, or even a healthy snack, these shrimp are seasoned with bold spices and air-fried until juicy on the inside and slightly crispy on the outside.
The best part? You don’t need oil-drenched pans or complicated cooking steps. The air fryer does all the work, keeping the shrimp tender while locking in flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 15 minutes, perfect for weeknights.
- Healthy and Light: Uses less oil compared to deep frying.
- Flavor Explosion: Packed with spices like paprika, garlic, and chili powder.
- Versatile: Works as a main dish with rice or salad, or as a party appetizer.
Whether you’re hosting friends or looking for a simple dinner option, this recipe is a winner every time.
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- Optional: chopped parsley for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Shrimp
- Rinse shrimp under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
- Place them in a medium-sized mixing bowl.
- Season the Shrimp
- Add olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, cayenne, salt, and black pepper.
- Mix well to coat shrimp evenly with the seasoning blend.
- Preheat the Air Fryer
- Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and let it preheat for 3 minutes.
- Air Fry the Shrimp
- Place shrimp in a single layer inside the air fryer basket.
- Cook for 7–8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
- Add Freshness
- Once cooked, drizzle with lemon juice and sprinkle with parsley if desired.
- Serve and Enjoy
- Plate your shrimp and serve them hot with dipping sauces, over rice, or with a side salad.
Tips & Tricks
- Don’t Overcrowd: Cook shrimp in batches for even crispiness.
- Adjust Heat: Add more or less cayenne depending on how spicy you like it.
- Flavor Boost: Marinate shrimp for 30 minutes before air frying for deeper taste.
- Serving Ideas: Pair with garlic butter, aioli, or a refreshing cucumber salad.
Notes
- Frozen shrimp can be used but must be thawed and patted dry first.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days and reheated in the air fryer for 2–3 minutes.
Why Air Fryer Shrimp is the Best Choice
Traditional fried shrimp can be greasy, heavy, and messy to make. With the air fryer, you achieve a crispy outside with a tender inside using only a fraction of the oil. This makes it a healthier, guilt-free choice without sacrificing flavor.
If you’re looking for a quick seafood recipe that fits into a busy lifestyle, this spicy shrimp recipe is the ultimate option. It works for meal prep, weekend gatherings, or even as a protein-rich snack.
Air Fryer Spicy Shrimp
Description A quick and healthy seafood recipe featuring juicy shrimp coated in bold spices and air-fried to perfection. Ready in under 15 minutes, it’s perfect for weeknights or entertaining.
Duration
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 13 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled & deveined
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- Optional: parsley
Instructions
- Dry shrimp and place in a bowl.
- Toss with oil, paprika, garlic, onion, chili, cayenne, salt, and pepper.
- Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Place shrimp in basket in a single layer.
- Cook 7–8 minutes, shaking halfway.
- Drizzle with lemon juice, garnish with parsley, and serve hot.