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Air fryer garlic shrimp with juicy tender shrimp, roasted garlic cloves, fresh parsley, and lemon wedges, served as an easy high protein seafood dinner.
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Air Fryer Garlic Shrimp - Fast, Flavorful, And Perfectly Juicy

Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time8 minutes
Total Time18 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off)
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil (or melted butter for richer flavor)
  • 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (or sweet paprika)
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • Lemon wedges, for serving
  • Nonstick cooking spray (for the air fryer basket)

Instructions

  • Prep the shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. Dry shrimp brown better and won’t steam in the air fryer.
  • Mix the marinade: In a bowl, stir together olive oil (or melted butter), minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.
  • Toss and rest: Add the shrimp to the bowl and toss to coat evenly. Let them sit for 10–15 minutes while you preheat the air fryer. This quick rest helps the flavors soak in.
  • Preheat the air fryer: Set to 400°F (200°C) for 3–5 minutes. Lightly spray the basket with nonstick spray.
  • Arrange the shrimp: Place shrimp in a single layer in the basket. Avoid crowding so the hot air can circulate and crisp the edges. Work in batches if needed.
  • Air fry: Cook for 5–7 minutes, flipping halfway. Shrimp are done when they’re pink, opaque, and slightly curled into a loose “C” shape.
  • Finish and serve: Sprinkle with parsley and a squeeze of fresh lemon. Serve immediately over rice, pasta, salad, or with crusty bread to catch the garlicky juices.