Name: Air Fryer Shrimp with Sweet Chili Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 18 min
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Ingredients: 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 2 large eggs, beaten; 1 cup panko breadcrumbs; Non-stick cooking spray; Sweet chili sauce, for serving

Why You’ll Love Air Fryer Shrimp with Sweet Chili Sauce Recipe

It’s ready in about 15 minutes total — perfect for busy weeknights.
No breading required, which means fewer calories and less prep.
The sweet chili‑mayo sauce adds a delicious balance of sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy flavors that pair beautifully with shrimp.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 pound raw jumbo shrimp – peeled and deveined
2 teaspoons olive oil
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon Tajín or chili powder
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
2 cloves garlic, minced
¼ cup Thai sweet chili sauce
¼ cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon fresh lime juice (about juice from ½ lime)
Chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish)

Directions

Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
In a large bowl, season the shrimp with salt, black pepper, Tajín or chili powder, smoked paprika, and minced garlic. Drizzle with olive oil and toss to coat evenly.
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (205°C).
Arrange the shrimp in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving some space between each one. Cook in batches if necessary.
Air fry for 7–8 minutes. No need to flip halfway through.
While the shrimp are cooking, whisk together the sweet chili sauce, mayonnaise, and fresh lime juice in a small bowl until smooth.
Once shrimp are done, toss them in the sauce or drizzle the sauce over the top. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve.

Servings and timing

Servings: 3
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 8 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes

Variations

Add a pinch of crushed red pepper or hot sauce to the sweet chili-mayo sauce for extra heat.
Swap lime juice with lemon juice for a slightly different citrus flavor.
Serve over rice or with stir-fried vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or snap peas for a full meal.
Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for added flavor and texture.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover shrimp and sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2–3 days.
Reheat shrimp in the air fryer at 350°F for a few minutes to retain texture. Avoid using the microwave as it can make shrimp rubbery.

FAQs

What kind of shrimp should I use?

Use raw jumbo shrimp that are peeled and deveined for best results.

Can I use frozen shrimp directly?

No, it’s best to thaw them completely and pat dry to avoid excess moisture in the air fryer.

Do I need to bread the shrimp?

No breading is needed, which keeps the dish lighter and faster to prepare.

What if I don’t have Tajín?

You can substitute chili powder or any chili-lime seasoning you have on hand.

Can I make the sauce spicier?

Yes, just add some crushed red pepper flakes or your favorite hot sauce.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all ingredients used are naturally gluten-free.

What should I serve with the shrimp?

Try rice bowls, stir-fried veggies, salad, or garlic bread as sides.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, cook the shrimp and store without sauce. Add sauce right before serving.

Can leftovers be frozen?

Freezing is not recommended, as shrimp texture may suffer after reheating.

How can I reheat without losing texture?

Use the air fryer or oven instead of the microwave to keep the shrimp from turning rubbery.

Conclusion

This Air Fryer Shrimp with Sweet Chili Sauce is the perfect solution for when you need a fast, flavorful meal without fuss. With minimal ingredients, no breading, and a mouthwatering sauce, it’s sure to become a staple in your dinner rotation. Perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests — it’s as easy as it is delicious.