The first time I made peri-peri shrimp, I spent more time cleaning up oil splatters than actually enjoying dinner. But when I discovered how beautifully this dish transforms in the air fryer, everything changed. After testing 10 versions inspired by classic Portuguese flavors, I found the perfect balance: smoky heat, zesty lemon, and tender shrimp that cook in under 8 minutes. These Air Fryer Peri-Peri Shrimp are my go-to for weeknights when I want something fiery, fast, and foolproof. I’m Samia, and this is the recipe that made spicy shrimp my quickest craving fix.
Why This Air Fryer Peri-Peri Shrimp Recipe Works
The secret lies in the marinade and timing. The air fryer’s circulating heat caramelizes the peri-peri sauce, giving the shrimp a smoky, charred edge without drying them out. By preheating briefly and cooking at 390°F (200°C) for just 8 minutes, the shrimp stay juicy inside and crisp outside. A short marinating time infuses deep flavor while keeping prep fast.
Air Fryer Peri-Peri Shrimp
Equipment
- Air fryer
- Mixing bowl
- Tongs
- Paper towels
- Oil spray bottle
Ingredients
1 lb large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on optional)
1 tbsp olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 red chili, finely chopped (or 1 tsp chili flakes)
1 tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp honey (optional, for balance)
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Preheat air fryer to 390°F (200°C) for 3 minutes (optional).
Pat shrimp dry with paper towels and place in a bowl.
Add olive oil, garlic, chili, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, lemon juice, and honey. Toss well to coat.
Let marinate for 15–20 minutes at room temperature.
Arrange shrimp in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
Cook for 8 minutes, shaking or flipping halfway through at 4 minutes.
Check for doneness—shrimp should be pink, opaque, and lightly charred.
Garnish with parsley and serve immediately with lemon wedges.
Notes
- Air fryer models vary; adjust time slightly for basket size.
- Shrimp overcook easily—watch for pink color and “C” shape.
- Storage: Refrigerate leftovers up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Air fry at 350°F for 3 minutes.
- Spice variation: For milder heat, replace chili with ½ tsp sweet paprika.
Nutrition
Conclusion
This air fryer method creates perfectly juicy, spicy shrimp with minimal effort. In just 8 minutes, you’ll have restaurant-quality peri-peri flavor that’s bold, smoky, and irresistibly tender.
