Best Air Fryer Prawns Recipe

ByKimberly December 25, 2025December 25, 2025

If you ever crave a dish that bursts with flavor, cooks super fast, and feels light yet indulgent, you have to try the Best Air Fryer Prawns Recipe. These prawns come out perfectly crispy on the edges, juicy inside, and coated with a magical blend of garlic, smoked paprika, and a hint of chili that dances on your tongue. Whether you’re whipping up a quick weeknight dinner or impressing friends with a seafood treat, this recipe’s simplicity and vibrant taste will instantly make it one of your favorites. Get ready to fall in love with prawns all over again!

Best Air Fryer Prawns Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is the key to mastering the Best Air Fryer Prawns Recipe. Each element is simple yet indispensable, working together to create that perfect balance of flavor, texture, and visual appeal that makes this dish shine.

1 lb large prawns, peeled and deveined: Choose fresh or thawed prawns for the best texture; tails can be kept on or off depending on preference for ease of eating.
1 tablespoon olive oil: This ensures the prawns get a light, crispy coating without any greasiness.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: Garlic powder delivers a sweet, mellow depth that fresh garlic sometimes doesn’t achieve in quick-cook methods.
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds a subtle smokiness and beautiful color to the prawns.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential for bringing out the prawns’ natural sweetness.
1/4 teaspoon black pepper: A gentle heat that complements but does not overpower.
1/4 teaspoon chili flakes (optional): For those who like a little kick, chili flakes elevate the dish with a pleasant heat.
Juice of 1/2 lemon: Bright citrus notes lighten the dish and enhance the seafood flavor.
Chopped parsley for garnish: Adds freshness, color, and an herbaceous lift at the final step.

How to Make Best Air Fryer Prawns Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer

Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3 to 5 minutes. This step is crucial because it ensures the prawns cook evenly and get that irresistible crispy edge right from the start.

Step 2: Season the Prawns

In a large bowl, toss the prawns with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, optional chili flakes, and freshly squeezed lemon juice. Make sure every prawn is coated thoroughly to guarantee balanced flavor in each bite.

Step 3: Arrange and Air Fry

Place the seasoned prawns in a single layer in your air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding to let the hot air circulate freely, which is what gives you that golden, slightly crispy exterior. Cook the prawns for 6 to 8 minutes, flipping halfway through to cook both sides perfectly.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

Once cooked, the prawns should be a lovely pink, curled nicely, and crisp at the edges. Transfer them to a serving dish, sprinkle generously with freshly chopped parsley, and get ready to savor every bite.

How to Serve Best Air Fryer Prawns Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh parsley is the classic finishing touch, but you can also add a sprinkle of lemon zest or a drizzle of garlic butter for extra indulgence. A pinch of extra chili flakes can awaken the palate if you like things spicy.

Side Dishes

These prawns pair beautifully with fluffy rice, a crisp salad, or even nestled inside warm tortillas for quick tacos. Roasted vegetables or crusty bread also complement the light, smoky flavors perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn your dish into a seafood feast by serving the prawns on a bed of creamy mashed potatoes or alongside a zesty quinoa salad. For entertaining, skewer them with lemon wedges and serve as an elegant appetizer that everyone will rave about.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover air fryer prawns in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Keep them separate from any sauces to preserve texture and reheat just before serving.

Freezing

If you want to extend their shelf life, freeze the cooked prawns in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to two months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating gently.

Reheating

For reheating, the best method to maintain their texture is placing them back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for just 3 to 4 minutes. This refreshes the crispiness without drying them out.

FAQs

Can I use frozen prawns for the Best Air Fryer Prawns Recipe?

Yes, frozen prawns can be used. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry to avoid excess moisture, which can prevent crispiness in the air fryer.

Is it necessary to peel and devein the prawns?

Peeling and deveining ensures a cleaner taste and better texture, but if you prefer, you can keep the shells on for extra flavor and protection during cooking.

Can I marinate the prawns before air frying?

Absolutely! Marinating for 15 to 30 minutes intensifies the flavors and makes the prawns even more succulent, but don’t marinate too long as the lemon juice may start to “cook” the prawns.

What if I don’t have garlic powder?

You can substitute with fresh minced garlic, but add it sparingly and toss the prawns just before cooking to avoid burning in the air fryer.

How can I adjust the spice level in this recipe?

The chili flakes are optional and easily adjusted. Add more for heat or leave them out for a milder version. You can also serve with a cooling dip like yogurt or tzatziki.

Final Thoughts

This Best Air Fryer Prawns Recipe is a total game changer for anyone who loves quick, flavorful seafood dishes that impress without hours in the kitchen. The crispy edges, smoky seasoning, and zesty lemon combine to create a dish you’ll want to make again and again. Give it a try, and I promise this will soon become your go-to prawn recipe for every occasion!

Kimberly

Best Air Fryer Prawns Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need