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Healthy air fryer shrimp with juicy seasoned shrimp, fresh lemon wedges, parsley, and simple herbs, cooked with minimal oil in an air fryer basket for an easy high protein meal.
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Healthy Air Fryer Shrimp - Quick, Flavorful, and Light

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

Ingredients

  • 1 pound large shrimp (16–20 count), peeled and deveined, tails on or off
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (or sweet paprika)
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice, plus wedges for serving
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or cilantro

Instructions

  • Prep the shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. Dry shrimp brown better and won’t steam in the air fryer.
  • Season: In a bowl, toss shrimp with oil, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, pepper, salt, red pepper flakes (if using), and lemon zest. Mix until every piece is coated.
  • Preheat: Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3 minutes. A hot basket helps the shrimp cook evenly.
  • Arrange: Place shrimp in a single layer in the basket. Avoid overlap. Work in batches if needed for best results.
  • Air fry: Cook for 6–8 minutes, shaking the basket or flipping shrimp halfway. They’re done when pink, opaque, and slightly firm.
  • Add brightness: Transfer to a bowl and toss with lemon juice and fresh herbs.
  • Serve: Enjoy right away with extra lemon wedges. Try over brown rice, quinoa, zoodles, a green salad, or tucked into warm tortillas.