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Pre-Cooked Shrimp in Air Fryer

Pre-Cooked Shrimp in Air Fryer (Quick Reheat) - Fast, Juicy, and Flavorful

Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 6 minutes
Pre-heat 4 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings 4 servings

Ingredients
  

  • Pre-cooked shrimp (peeled and deveined; tails on or off)
  • Olive oil or melted butter (about 1–2 teaspoons per 8–10 ounces)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Garlic powder or minced garlic (optional)
  • Lemon wedges or a squeeze of lemon juice
  • Optional seasonings: paprika, Old Bay, chili flakes, Italian seasoning, or Cajun seasoning
  • Fresh herbs (parsley, cilantro, or chives), for garnish
  • Nonstick spray (only if your basket tends to stick)

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the air fryer to 360°F (182°C) for 3–4 minutes. A hot basket helps the shrimp heat quickly without drying out.
  • Pat shrimp dry. If they were frozen, thaw first under cold water for a few minutes, then drain and pat very dry. Dry shrimp reheat better and stay juicier.
  • Toss with fat and seasoning. In a bowl, mix shrimp with olive oil or melted butter, salt, pepper, and any add-ons like garlic powder or paprika. Keep it light—these are already cooked.
  • Arrange in a single layer. Add shrimp to the basket without piling. Crowding traps steam and softens the texture.
  • Air fry for 3–4 minutes. Shake halfway through. You’re reheating, not cooking from raw. Look for shrimp that are hot, glossy, and just starting to sizzle at the edges.
  • Check doneness. Shrimp should be opaque and firm, not rubbery. If needed, add 30–60 seconds. Avoid going over 5 minutes total.
  • Finish and serve. Squeeze lemon over the top, sprinkle fresh herbs, and adjust seasoning. Serve immediately.
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