Why You’ll Love Air Fryer Lemon‑Garlic Shrimp Recipe

It’s fast — you’ll have dinner ready in about 30 minutes from start to finish.
The flavor combo of garlic + lemon + herbs is bright, fresh, and crowd-pleasing.
It’s versatile — you can serve the shrimp as a main dish, over pasta or rice, or add them to salads.
Because it’s not breaded, it feels light and healthy while still satisfying.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 large garlic clove, grated or minced
1 Tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
1 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
1/4 tsp kosher salt
1/4 tsp Worcestershire sauce
1 lb large tail-on shrimp (peeled)
1/2 lemon, thinly sliced into half moons, seeds removed
2 Tbsp finely chopped fresh parsley

Directions

In a large bowl, whisk together garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and Worcestershire sauce. Add the shrimp and lemon slices; toss until evenly coated.
Working in batches so you don’t overcrowd the pan, arrange shrimp and lemon slices in a single layer in the air-fryer basket. Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 4 to 6 minutes, or until shrimp are opaque and cooked through.
Transfer the shrimp and lemon slices onto a platter and top with chopped parsley. Serve immediately.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: ~5 minutes
Cook time: 4–6 minutes per batch in the air fryer
Total time: about 30 minutes

Variations

Use shrimp without tails (or remove tails before cooking) for easier eating — especially if you plan to mix into pasta or salad.
Swap the lemon for lime or add a splash of lime juice for a different citrus twist.
Add other herbs or spices: for example, try fresh basil, oregano, or a pinch of smoked paprika for extra depth.
Make it spicy: increase the crushed red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne pepper for a sharper kick.
Serve over pasta, rice, or with a side of grilled veggies to turn this into a full meal.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat or briefly air-fry at a lower temperature until heated through — be careful not to overcook, or shrimp can become rubbery.

FAQs

How do I know when the shrimp is done cooking?

Shrimp are done when they turn opaque (no longer translucent) and curl into a loose “C” shape. Overcooked shrimp curl tightly into an “O” — avoid that, as it means they’re overdone.

Can I use frozen shrimp in this recipe?

Yes — but thaw the shrimp completely, then pat them dry before using. Excess moisture can prevent proper browning in the air fryer.

Can I cook all the shrimp at once, or do I need to do batches?

It’s best to cook in batches so the shrimp are in a single layer. Overcrowding the basket can lead to uneven cooking.

Can I skip the lemon slices?

Yes — the lemon slices add a nice citrus aroma and slight flavor, but you can skip them if you prefer or don’t have a fresh lemon.

What can I serve with this shrimp?

You can serve it as is, with a simple salad, over pasta or rice, or along with steamed or roasted veggies. It also works great in wraps or tacos.

How can I make the flavor more intense?

Use slightly more lemon juice, add extra garlic, or sprinkle a little extra parsley or herbs after cooking. You can also add a pinch of chili flakes for some heat.

Is the recipe healthy?

Yes — since the shrimp aren’t breaded and only a small amount of olive oil is used, it’s relatively low in fat and calories compared with fried alternatives.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes — just make sure you cook in batches so the shrimp aren’t overcrowded in the air-fryer basket.

Can I use butter instead of olive oil?

Yes — some cooks swap olive oil for melted butter for a richer flavor. If you do, be cautious about cooking time/temperature to avoid burning.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can marinate the shrimp and lemon slices up to 1 hour in advance, stored in the refrigerator. Toss and cook just before serving.

Conclusion

This air fryer lemon-garlic shrimp is a simple yet impressive dish that delivers bold, fresh flavor with minimal effort. Perfectly cooked in minutes, it’s a healthy, protein-rich option that fits seamlessly into weeknight meals or special gatherings. Whether served alone, over grains, or as part of a larger spread, it’s a reliable and delicious recipe to keep in your rotation.