Air Fryer Shrimp Fajitas Recipe

If you’re craving a flavorful, quick, and healthy meal, this Air Fryer Shrimp Fajitas recipe is exactly what you need. With juicy shrimp, crisp bell peppers, and sweet onions, everything comes together perfectly in your air fryer for a dish that’s bursting with vibrant colors and bold flavors. Ready in just minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or casual weekend dinners. Plus, it’s simple to customize and easy to prepare, making it a favorite for shrimp lovers and fajita fans alike!

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

Shrimp fajitas are a classic Tex-Mex favorite, but cooking them in the air fryer takes things to the next level. The air fryer gives the shrimp a deliciously crisp texture without the need for deep frying or excessive oil. This method is not only healthier but also incredibly fast, locking in the shrimp’s natural juices while perfectly caramelizing the veggies. The combination of the fajita seasoning and the natural sweetness of bell peppers and onions creates a balanced, mouthwatering flavor profile.

Whether you’re new to air frying or a seasoned pro, this recipe is straightforward and foolproof. It’s ideal for those looking to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal without the hassle. Plus, using just a handful of simple ingredients means you can whip this up anytime with minimal prep.

Ingredients

• 1 pound (450g) raw shrimp, thawed, peeled, and deveined
• 3 small mixed bell peppers, sliced (use a combination of red, green, and yellow for vibrant color)
• 1 small yellow onion, sliced
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil, divided (you can substitute with olive oil or avocado oil)
• 1 tablespoon fajita seasoning, divided (store-bought or homemade)*
• Optional toppings: warm tortillas, fresh lime wedges, chopped cilantro, sour cream or Greek yogurt, shredded cheese, avocado slices

*For homemade fajita seasoning, mix together 1 teaspoon paprika, 1 teaspoon chili powder, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon onion powder, ½ teaspoon ground cumin, ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat), ¼ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper.

How To Make Air Fryer Shrimp Fajitas Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp and Vegetables

Rinse your shrimp under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning stick better. Slice the bell peppers and onion into thin strips, about ¼-inch wide, so they cook evenly in the air fryer.

Step 2: Season the Veggies

In a medium bowl, toss the sliced bell peppers and onions with half the vegetable oil and half of the fajita seasoning. Make sure all the pieces are well coated with the seasoning and oil for maximum flavor.

Step 3: Season the Shrimp

In a separate bowl, combine the shrimp with the remaining vegetable oil and fajita seasoning. Toss until the shrimp are evenly coated.

Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3-5 minutes. This ensures an even cooking temperature right from the start.

Step 5: Cook the Vegetables

Place the seasoned bell peppers and onions in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 5 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to promote even cooking.

Step 6: Add the Shrimp

After the veggies have begun to soften, add the shrimp on top in a single layer. Continue cooking everything together for another 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket once or twice during cooking. The shrimp should turn pink and opaque, and the veggies should be tender yet slightly crisp.

Step 7: Serve

Once cooked, transfer the shrimp and vegetable mixture to a serving platter. Serve with warm tortillas and your favorite toppings like lime wedges, cilantro, sour cream, or avocado slices.

Expert Tips

• Make sure the shrimp are fully thawed and patted dry to ensure they cook evenly and get a nice crisp in the air fryer.
• Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches if necessary to allow proper air circulation.
• Use a light hand with the oil to keep the dish healthy and prevent sogginess.
• Shake or toss the basket halfway through cooking to avoid uneven browning.
• For extra flavor, squeeze fresh lime juice over the shrimp fajitas just before serving.
• If you prefer your veggies softer, cook them for an extra minute or two before adding the shrimp.

Variations and Customizations

• Protein Swap: Replace shrimp with chicken breast strips or thinly sliced beef for a different twist.
• Veggie Boost: Add sliced mushrooms, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes for added texture and flavor.
• Spice it Up: Add extra cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for a spicier fajita experience.
• Gluten-Free: Use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas to make this recipe gluten-free.
• Dairy-Free: Skip cheese and sour cream or swap for dairy-free alternatives to keep it dairy-free.
• Herb Freshness: Top with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for a bright, fresh finish.

How to Store Leftovers

Store any leftover shrimp fajita mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes or microwave until heated through. Keep tortillas separate to prevent sogginess, and add any fresh toppings after reheating for the best texture and flavor.

FAQ

Can I use frozen shrimp straight from the freezer?

It’s best to thaw shrimp completely before cooking in the air fryer. Cooking frozen shrimp directly can lead to uneven cooking and excess moisture, which affects texture.

What if I don’t have an air fryer? Can I make this recipe another way?

Yes! You can cook the shrimp and veggies in a skillet on the stovetop over medium-high heat. Cook the veggies first until tender, then add the shrimp and cook until pink and opaque.

How spicy is this fajita seasoning? Can I adjust the heat level?

The fajita seasoning has a mild to moderate heat level. You can easily adjust the spice by adding more cayenne pepper or chili powder for heat or reducing those spices for a milder flavor.

What type of tortillas work best with shrimp fajitas?

Flour tortillas are the classic choice for fajitas due to their softness and flexibility, but corn tortillas are great if you prefer a gluten-free option or a slightly different flavor.

Conclusion

This Air Fryer Shrimp Fajitas recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a healthy, flavorful meal with minimal effort. The air fryer delivers perfectly cooked shrimp and tender-crisp veggies, all seasoned with bold fajita spices. Whether you’re new to air frying or simply love quick, delicious dinners, this recipe hits all the right notes. Serve it up with warm tortillas and your favorite toppings for a meal that’s sure to impress family and friends alike. Give it a try tonight and enjoy vibrant, satisfying fajitas without the fuss!