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Air Fryer Fried Shrimp Recipe – Easy Comfort Food Recipes

Name: Air Fryer Fried Shrimp Recipe – Easy Comfort Food Recipes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4
Ingredients: 12 ounces jumbo shrimp, peeled, deveined, with tails intact; ½ cup plain all-purpose flour; 2 large eggs, lightly beaten; 1 tablespoon Cajun seafood spice blend; 1 teaspoon lemon zest; ½ tablespoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; ½ tablespoon fine sea salt; ¼ tablespoon freshly ground black pepper; Nonstick cooking spray

Kathleen Looney August 7, 2025

Servings: 4 Total Time: 20 mins Difficulty: Intermediate

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Before diving into the crunchy goodness of Air Fryer Fried Shrimp, let’s think about what complements this dish. You can serve it alongside a refreshing garden salad, featuring seasonal vegetables and a zesty dressing.

A creamy coleslaw can also be a fantastic choice, adding a nice crunch and tang. For those looking for hearty options, consider pairing it with a fluffy rice pilaf or some tangy tartar sauce for an extra kick. If you’re feeling fancy, whip up some garlic bread to round off the meal.

I often explore healthier cooking methods. When I got my hands on an air fryer, I immediately thought of shrimp. After all, who doesn’t love succulent shrimp coated in a crunchy exterior?

This dish is a game-changer. With just a few simple ingredients, you can achieve a delectable meal that not only tantalizes your taste buds but also keeps things healthier than traditional frying.

Let’s journey through the delightful process of creating Air Fryer Fried Shrimp, complete with insights, tips, and plenty of flavor.You Might Also Like These Recipes!

What is Air Fryer Fried Shrimp?

Air Fryer Fried Shrimp is a cooking marvel that allows you to prepare shrimp with far less oil than traditional frying. Using hot air circulation technology, the air fryer creates a crispy exterior while preserving the juiciness of the shrimp. It’s straightforward but incredibly satisfying. Perfect for casual dinners or gatherings, this recipe will leave your guests raving.

What is the Flavor Profile of This Dish?

Expect a delightful burst of flavors. The shrimp itself carries a natural sweetness, which pairs beautifully with spices like paprika and garlic. The Cajun seafood spice blend provides a kick, making each bite a true explosion of taste.

There’s also a hint of brightness from the lemon zest. Altogether, the dish offers a well-rounded flavor experience, tantalizing both novice and seasoned palates alike.

Why You’ll Love This?

This Air Fryer Fried Shrimp is fuss-free and quick, taking mere minutes to prepare and cook. The recipe is also adaptable; you can switch up spices or dipping sauces as you please. Plus, it’s a healthier version of fried shrimp, allowing you to indulge without the guilt.

There’s something liberating about cooking shrimp this way—you enjoy the crunch without heavy oil coating it. Trust me; once you try it, you’ll be hooked!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need:

12 ounces jumbo shrimp, peeled, deveined, with tails intact
½ cup plain all-purpose flour
2 large eggs, lightly beaten
1 tablespoon Cajun seafood spice blend
1 teaspoon lemon zest
½ tablespoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon fine sea salt
¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Nonstick cooking spray

Step by Step Instructions

Let’s get cooking!

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

Start by rinsing your shrimp under cold water. Pat them dry with paper towels. This step ensures that any excess moisture is removed, helping the coating stick better.

Step 2: Set Up the Breading Stations

In one bowl, place the flour. In another, pour the beaten eggs. In a third bowl, mix the Cajun spice blend, lemon zest, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This assembly line will make coating the shrimp seamless.

Step 3: Coat the Shrimp

Take each shrimp and first dip it into the flour, ensuring a light coating. Shake off the excess. Next, dip it into the egg mixture, allowing any extra to drip off. Finally, roll it in the spice mixture, press gently to ensure the coating sticks well. Repeat this with all the shrimp.

Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer for about 5 minutes at 400°F. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect crispy texture.

Step 5: Spray the Frying Rack

Lightly spray the air fryer basket with nonstick cooking spray. This will help the shrimp not to stick and keep cleanup easy.

Step 6: Air Fry the Shrimp

Arrange the coated shrimp in the basket. Be sure to leave some space between them, making sure they aren’t overcrowded. This allows the air to circulate properly, promoting that coveted crunch.

Step 7: Cook the Shrimp

Set the air fryer to cook at 400°F for about 8-10 minutes. Flip the shrimp halfway through cooking to ensure both sides are golden brown and crispy.

When the shrimp are done, they should be nicely browned and have an internal temperature of 120°F.

How to make Air Fryer Fried Shrimp Recipe

Tips and Tricks

Here are some handy tips to get the most out of your Air Fryer Fried Shrimp:

Pace Yourself: If you have a lot of shrimp, cook them in batches. Overcrowding will prevent proper cooking and crispiness.
Experiment with Seasoning: You can swap the Cajun spice for other seasonings like Italian seasoning or a simple lemon pepper mix.
Quality Matters: Always choose fresh, high-quality shrimp. The better the shrimp, the better the dish will taste.
Leftovers? If you have any shrimp left, reheat them in the air fryer for a few minutes. This will retain their crispiness.
Dipping Sauce Delight: Serve with a variety of dipping sauces—tartar, cocktail sauce, or even a spicy mayo for some extra zing.

Nutrition Information

Air Fryer Fried Shrimp Recipe Nutrition Facts

How Can You Store This Air Fryer Fried Shrimp?

If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare!), let the shrimp cool down before placing them in an airtight container. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Reheat in the air fryer for about 5 minutes to restore that crunchy exterior.

Ingredient Alternatives

Don’t have everything on hand? No worries! Here are some alternatives:

Shrimp Replacement: If you can’t find shrimp, use chicken tenders or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
Flour Swap: Feel free to use almond flour or whole wheat flour for a healthier twist.
Spice Alternatives: In case Cajun spices are hard to come by, try using Old Bay seasoning or Italian herbs for similar results.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Fried Shrimp has fast become a favorite in my kitchen. This simple yet mouthwatering dish strikes the perfect balance of flavors and textures. I’ve enjoyed every crispy bite, and I’m sure you will too.

This recipe is not just about food; it stands for creativity and fun in the kitchen. The seamless process allows you to impress without the fuss. So fire up that air fryer, gather your ingredients, and embark on a delightful culinary adventure that your taste buds will thank you for!

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