Air Fried Shrimp: Crispy & Quick

Air Fried Shrimp are a delightful, crispy, and healthier alternative to traditional fried shrimp. This recipe showcases succulent shrimp coated in a flavorful blend of seasonings and breadcrumbs, resulting in a crunchy exterior and juicy interior—all without the extra oil. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a tasty appetizer for your next gathering, this air fried shrimp recipe is not only easy to follow but also incredibly satisfying.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

You will love this air fried shrimp recipe for its incredible flavor and ease of preparation. Tossed in a simple seasoning mix and cooked to perfection in an air fryer, the shrimp turn out crispy and golden brown without the guilt that comes from deep frying. It fits well into various diets, including low-carb and gluten-free options, making it ideal for health-conscious eaters. Plus, this dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it a fantastic choice for busy individuals or families.

Tips and Tricks

• Preheat the air fryer: Always preheat your air fryer for a few minutes before adding the shrimp. This ensures even cooking and crispy results.
• Do not overcrowd: Cook the shrimp in batches to avoid overcrowding the basket, which can lead to uneven cooking and less crispiness.
• Use Panko breadcrumbs: For an extra crunchy texture, opt for Panko breadcrumbs instead of regular bread crumbs.
• Marinate for flavor: Let the shrimp marinate in the seasoning for at least 15 minutes to enhance the flavor, but don’t exceed 30 minutes to avoid the shrimp becoming too mushy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking: Shrimp cook quickly; overcooking them can lead to a rubbery texture. Keep an eye on them and remove them as soon as they turn pink and opaque.
• Inconsistent size: Ensure all shrimp are of similar size for even cooking. If necessary, cut larger shrimp in half.
• Skip the oil spray: Lightly spraying the shrimp with oil before cooking helps achieve that golden crispy exterior. Don’t skip this step!

Make Ahead Tips

For those who like to meal prep, you can marinate the shrimp ahead of time. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 hours before cooking. Alternatively, you can prepare the breading in advance and store it separately. The breading mixture stays fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Shrimp: Add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix for a spicy kick.
• Garlic Lemon Shrimp: Incorporate minced garlic and lemon zest into the marinade for a fresh, zesty flavor.
• Coconut Shrimp: Substitute half of the breadcrumbs with shredded coconut for a tropical twist.
• Different Cooking Method: If you don’t have an air fryer, these shrimp can also be baked in the oven or pan-fried on the stovetop.

How to Serve

Serve the air fried shrimp immediately after cooking for the best texture. Arrange them on a large platter, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro. Pair with a zesty dipping sauce, such as cocktail sauce or a spicy aioli, for an extra flavor boost. For a complete meal, serve alongside a light salad, coleslaw, or rice.

Pairing Suggestions

For drink pairings, a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc complements the shrimp beautifully. Alternatively, serve a refreshing cocktail such as a classic mojito. As for side dishes, consider pairing with a light, citrusy quinoa salad or roasted vegetables. For dessert, a fruit sorbet or panna cotta can provide a refreshing finish.

How to Store

Leftover air fried shrimp can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them back in the air fryer at 350°F for about 5 minutes to regain their crispiness. For longer storage, you can freeze the shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll last for up to 2 months in the freezer.

Equipment Needed

• Air Fryer: This is essential for achieving that crispy texture without deep frying.
• Mixing Bowls: For marinating and mixing the breading.
• Tongs: Useful for flipping the shrimp during cooking.
• Cooking Spray: For evenly coating the shrimp with oil.

Dietary Adaptations

To make this recipe gluten-free, simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs. For a dairy-free version, ensure that any sauces served alongside are also dairy-free. To accommodate a vegan diet, substitute the shrimp with a plant-based protein such as battered tofu or cauliflower florets.

Seasonal Adaptations

In spring and summer, fresh herbs like basil or dill can be added to the breading mix for brightness. In the fall and winter, consider using warm spices such as smoked paprika or curry powder to bring warmth to the dish.

Cost Breakdown

This air fried shrimp recipe typically costs around $10 for four servings, making it about $2.50 per serving. To save costs, consider using frozen shrimp, which can be more affordable than fresh. Additionally, buying shrimp in bulk can also help reduce the price.

Kitchen Hacks

• Peeling Shrimp: To peel shrimp quickly, use kitchen shears to cut down the back and remove the shell in one go.
• Quick Marinade: If you’re short on time, mix the shrimp with the seasoning and let them marinate while the air fryer preheats.
• Clean-Up Tip: Line the air fryer basket with parchment paper for easier cleanup after cooking.

Recipe FAQs

• Can I use frozen shrimp? Yes! Just ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before marinating and breading.
• What if I don’t have an air fryer? You can bake the shrimp in a conventional oven at 400°F for about 10-12 minutes or until cooked through.
• What’s the best way to tell if shrimp are done? They should be pink and opaque when cooked, and their tails should curl slightly.

Yield: 4

Air Fried Shrimp

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Air Fried Shrimp are a delightful, crispy, and healthier alternative to traditional fried shrimp.

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 10 minutes

Additional Time 30 minutes

Total Time 50 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for spraying)
• Optional: fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
   
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the Panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
   
3. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and add them to a separate bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and toss to coat.
   
4. Add the seasoned Panko mixture to the shrimp and toss until evenly coated.
   
5. Place the shrimp in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure not to overcrowd.
   
6. Cook for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the shrimp are golden brown and cooked through.
   
7. Remove the shrimp from the air fryer and garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired.
   
8. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.

Nutrition Information

Yield

4

Serving Size

1
Amount Per Serving Calories 279Total Fat 7gSaturated Fat 1gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 5gCholesterol 239mgSodium 1538mgCarbohydrates 23gFiber 2gSugar 2gProtein 30g

Dinnerfocus.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.

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Final Thoughts

This air fried shrimp recipe is an easy way to bring a taste of the sea to your table without the guilt of deep frying. With its crispy texture, flavorful seasoning, and versatility, it quickly becomes a favorite for both casual dinners and special occasions. Give it a try, and enjoy the delightful crunch and savory flavor that this dish offers!