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# Air Fryer Shrimp in 10 Minutes: Quick and Delicious Recipe

If you’re looking for a fast, healthy, and flavorful seafood dish, **air fryer shrimp** is the perfect choice. This quick recipe lets you enjoy crispy, juicy shrimp in just 10 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute meals. Plus, using an air fryer means less oil and fewer calories compared to traditional frying methods.

In this article, we’ll guide you through a simple step-by-step recipe for air fryer shrimp, share tips for perfect results, and answer some frequently asked questions. Whether you’re new to air frying or a seasoned pro who loves quick meals like **air fryer chicken**, this recipe is sure to become a favorite!

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## Why Choose Air Fryer Shrimp?

Shrimp is a versatile, protein-rich seafood that cooks quickly and pairs well with many flavors. Using an air fryer enhances the texture by making the shrimp crispy on the outside while keeping it tender inside — all without deep frying in oil.

### Benefits of Air Frying Shrimp

– **Quick cooking time:** Shrimp cooks in under 10 minutes.
– **Healthier option:** Uses minimal oil, reducing fat and calories.
– **Easy cleanup:** No greasy pans or splatters.
– **Consistent results:** Even cooking and crispiness every time.
– **Versatile:** Perfect for salads, tacos, pasta, or as a snack.

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## Ingredients for Air Fryer Shrimp

To make this quick air fryer shrimp recipe, you’ll need:

– 1 pound raw shrimp, peeled and deveined (tail-on or off)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– ½ teaspoon salt
– ½ teaspoon black pepper
– Optional: pinch of cayenne pepper for heat
– Fresh lemon wedges for serving
– Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

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## How to Make Air Fryer Shrimp in 10 Minutes

### Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3-5 minutes. Preheating ensures the shrimp cooks evenly and gets crispy.

### Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp

In a mixing bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper if using. Make sure each shrimp is evenly coated with the seasoning.

### Step 3: Arrange Shrimp in the Air Fryer Basket

Place the shrimp in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding to allow hot air to circulate and crisp the shrimp properly.

### Step 4: Cook the Shrimp

Air fry the shrimp at 400°F for 6-8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through cooking to ensure even crisping. The shrimp should turn pink and opaque with a slightly crispy exterior.

### Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Remove the shrimp from the air fryer and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve immediately with your favorite sides or dipping sauces.

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## Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Shrimp

– **Don’t overcrowd the basket:** Cook in batches if needed.
– **Use fresh or properly thawed shrimp:** Avoid frozen shrimp that hasn’t been fully thawed to prevent uneven cooking.
– **Adjust seasoning to taste:** Feel free to experiment with different spices like Cajun seasoning or Italian herbs.
– **Pair with quick sides:** Air fryer shrimp pairs well with salads, steamed veggies, rice, or pasta.
– **Try different coatings:** For a crispy twist, coat shrimp lightly in panko breadcrumbs before air frying.

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## Air Fryer Shrimp vs. Air Fryer Chicken: A Quick Comparison

If you enjoy quick air fryer recipes, you might also be familiar with **air fryer chicken**. Both shrimp and chicken benefit from the air fryer’s ability to cook food quickly and healthily, but there are some differences:

| Feature | Air Fryer Shrimp | Air Fryer Chicken |
|———————-|———————————|———————————-|
| Cooking Time | 6-8 minutes | 15-25 minutes (depending on cut) |
| Texture | Crispy outside, tender inside | Crispy skin, juicy meat |
| Seasoning Flexibility| Works well with seafood spices | Works well with a variety of rubs |
| Health Benefits | Low calorie, low fat | Lean protein, low fat (skinless) |

Both are excellent options for quick, nutritious meals, and mastering both will keep your weeknight dinners exciting and delicious.

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## Serving Suggestions for Air Fryer Shrimp

Here are some easy ideas to serve your air fryer shrimp:

– **Shrimp Tacos:** Warm tortillas, avocado, slaw, and a drizzle of lime crema.
– **Over Salad:** Mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette.
– **With Rice or Quinoa:** Add steamed veggies and a squeeze of lemon.
– **Pasta:** Toss shrimp with garlic butter and your favorite pasta.
– **As an Appetizer:** Serve with cocktail sauce or garlic aioli for dipping.

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## FAQs About Air Fryer Shrimp

### How long does it take to cook shrimp in an air fryer?

Shrimp typically cooks in 6-8 minutes at 400°F (200°C). The exact time depends on the size of the shrimp and your air fryer model. Shrimp is done when it turns pink and opaque.

### Can I use frozen shrimp in the air fryer?

Yes, but it’s best to thaw shrimp completely before air frying to ensure even cooking. You can thaw shrimp quickly by placing it in a bowl of cold water for 10-15 minutes.

### Can I use the same seasoning for air fryer chicken and shrimp?

Absolutely! Many seasoning blends like garlic powder, paprika, cayenne, and Italian herbs work well on both shrimp and chicken. Feel free to experiment and adjust to your taste.

### Do I need to oil the air fryer basket?

No, you don’t need to oil the basket, but tossing shrimp in a little olive oil or melted butter helps with browning and flavor.

### Is air fryer shrimp healthy?

Yes, air fryer shrimp is a healthy option because it uses minimal oil and retains the shrimp’s natural nutrients. It’s a great source of protein and low in calories.

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## Conclusion

This **air fryer shrimp in 10 minutes** recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a quick, healthy, and delicious seafood meal. With minimal ingredients and simple steps, you can have perfectly cooked shrimp that’s crispy on the outside and tender inside. Whether you’re pairing it with a fresh salad, rice, or pasta, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings.

If you love quick air fryer meals like **air fryer chicken**, this shrimp recipe is a must-try addition to your cooking repertoire. Give it a try tonight and enjoy a flavorful, guilt-free dish in no time!

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**Try this recipe today and discover how easy and tasty air fryer shrimp can be!**

Keyword: air fryer chicken