After a long day, the last thing I want is to stand over a stove juggling pots and pans. This air fryer shrimp and broccoli recipe swoops in just when dinner feels like a chore. The kitchen fills with that warm, garlicky aroma that nudges you to start tasting before the food’s even done. Somewhere between the sizzle and the subtle hiss of the air fryer, I usually get distracted—maybe checking my phone or pulling out a glass of wine—and before I know it, the timer’s buzzing, and the table’s ready.
It’s that moment when the shrimp look perfectly opaque with just a hint of char, and the broccoli still snaps when you bite into it. The lemon zest sprinkled on top adds a bright lift that makes you forget how little effort actually went into the meal. It’s simple, quick, and a little bit like hitting pause on a hectic evening.
- The shrimp cook up fast, cutting your dinner time way down.
- The broccoli stays crisp-tender, so you get texture without extra work.
- The garlic and smoked paprika add a depth of flavor that feels like you spent way longer in the kitchen.
- It’s simple — and that’s kind of the point.
- The lemon juice and zest bring freshness that keeps the dish from feeling heavy.
If you’re worried about your air fryer basket crowding or uneven cooking, just know it’s no big deal to cook in batches. The taste stays just as good, even if it takes a few minutes longer.
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Air Fryer Shrimp and Broccoli
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 2 1x
Description
A quick and healthy air fryer recipe featuring succulent shrimp and crisp-tender broccoli, seasoned with garlic and lemon for a flavorful meal.
Ingredients
12 ounces raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
12 ounces fresh broccoli florets
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest
Instructions
Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes.
In a large bowl, combine the shrimp, broccoli florets, olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Toss well to coat evenly.
Place the shrimp and broccoli mixture in the air fryer basket in a single layer. You may need to cook in batches if your air fryer is small.
Air fry for 10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through cooking to ensure even crisping.
After 10 minutes, check that the shrimp are opaque and cooked through and the broccoli is tender-crisp. If needed, cook for an additional 2 minutes.
Transfer the shrimp and broccoli to a serving dish. Drizzle with fresh lemon juice and sprinkle with lemon zest.
Serve immediately.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
For equipment, all you really need is your trusty air fryer—no fancy gadgets required. This dish pairs nicely with a side of steamed rice or even a simple salad when you want to round out the meal without fuss. Sometimes I toss in a pinch of chili flakes if I’m feeling a little adventurous, or swap smoked paprika for a smoky chipotle powder, but I haven’t tested all these twists thoroughly.
FAQ
Can I use frozen shrimp? You can, though thawing them first helps them cook more evenly in the air fryer. Just pat them dry to avoid extra moisture.
What if I want more veggies? Broccoli is great here, but cauliflower or green beans could work if you’re looking to switch things up.
Is this meal good for leftovers? Absolutely. Just reheat gently in the air fryer to keep the crispness intact.
Ready to clear your kitchen table faster and savor a meal that feels both fresh and satisfying? Give this recipe a try and see how quickly dinner can come together.