Air Fryer Shrimp Tacos

Name: Air Fryer Shrimp Tacos
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1lb/ 450g raw shrimp (prawns), peeled and deveined; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon coriander; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon avocado oil; 3 cups shredded green cabbage; 1 cup grated carrot; 1/2 cup fresh coriander (cilantro); 6-8 flour tortillas; 1/2 cup plain greek yoghurt; 1 small ripe avocado; 3-4 tablespoons lime juice; Salt + pepper

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These air fryer shrimp tacos are the perfect fresh, quick, healthy weeknight meal. Shrimp (prawns) are tossed in a smoky dry rub served in warm tortillas with a simple slaw and avocado crema.

We are hooked on these air fryer shrimp tacos! If you love my Honey Chipotle Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa you will fall in love with this dish too. They are such an easy healthy dinner idea that require only a few ingredients. Typically we serve them with a coleslaw of sorts tossed in a yummy avocado crema.

Shrimp (prawns) are tossed in the most delicious dry rub and cooked in the air fryer. They are ready in about than 15 minutes and are perfect for those busy weeknights that you just want dinner on the table fast.

Ingredients you’ll need:

To make these air fryer shrimp you’ll need a mix of spices, a few ingredients for the slaw and avocado crema.

Shrimp (prawns): I used regular sized prawns but you can use jumbo size shrimp if you prefer, just note the cooking time may need to be adjusted.
Olive oil or avocado oil.
Seasonings: Smoked paprika, cumin, garlic power, salt and pepper.
Slaw: Shredded green cabbage, carrot and coriander (cilantro)
Avocado Crema: Plain greek yoghurt, avocado, lime juice
Flour tortillas of choice

Complete list of ingredients and amounts is located on the recipe card below.

Ingredients to make shrimp tacos in the air fryer.

How to make air fryer shrimp tacos

Season shrimp: In a medium bowl, combine the shrimp, olive oil and seasonings. Toss well.

Raw shrimp in a bowl with spices and tongs.

Air fry shrimp: Place the shrimp in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Air fry at 400 for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway.

Avocado crema: Add all ingredients to a blender or food processor and blend until smooth, scraping sides down as needed.

Avocado crema in a pink bowl with a gold spoon.

Cabbage slaw: Toss the cabbage with as much of the avocado crema as desired (I usually do 1/2 a cup).

Cabbage and carrot slaw in a mixing bowl.

Assemble the tacos and enjoy.

How to store

Make ahead: The crema can be made the day before.
Refrigerator: Store leftover air fried shrimp separately in an airtight container for 3-4 days. Store leftover crema in an airtight container for up to 4 days. I recommend storing the crema separate from the cabbage so it does not get soggy. Dress right before serving*.
Reheating: Reheat the leftover air fryer shrimp in the microwave in 15-20 second intervals or in the air fryer at 350F/ 170C until warmed through. Do not overheat or they will become rubbery. Assemble air fryer shrimp tacos or enjoy in a salad.

Shrimp tacos with with slaw and avocado crema in a dish on the side.

Tips and tricks

Do not overfill the air fryer. The shrimp should not be overlapping. This allows the air to circulate and for them to cook evenly. Cook in batches if needed.
Do not overcook the shrimp. I recommend checking the shrimp after 8 minutes to see if they are ready. Overcooked shrimp are tough and rubbery.
Dress the slaw right before serving. This is so it does not get soggy. Only dress what you intend to eat.

Variations

Spicy: Use ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper.
Gluten-free: Use grain free almond flour tortillas or gluten free corn tortillas.
Dairy-free: Use dairy-free yoghurt or mayo. Cashew or coconut yogurt are a great alternative.
Salad bowl: Instead of serving the shrimp and accompaniments in a tortilla you can serve them over lettuce, rice or quinoa.
Slaw: Use a bag of pre shredded slaw mix instead to save time.

Recipe FAQ

What type of shrimp should I use?

Medium or jumbo size shrimp is perfect for tacos, but it’s really a personal preference what to use.

What goes with air fryer shrimp tacos?

Fresh Mango Habanero Salsa
Fresh Black Bean, Corn & Feta Dip
Pineapple Pico de Gallo
Kale & Apple Slaw with Yogurt Dressing

Are air fryer shrimp tacos with slaw healthy?

These shrimp tacos are lower in fat and calories compared to deep fried shrimp tacos.

How long do I put shrimp in the air fryer?

Air fryer shrimp take anywhere from 8-10 minutes at 200C/ 400F depending on the size.

Can I put frozen shrimp in the air fryer?

Yes. But you will need to add an additional 1-2 minutes to the cook time depending on the size.

Other taco recipes to try

Black Bean Mushroom Tacos

Honey Chipotle Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa

Baked Sweet Potato Mushroom Tacos

Crispy Blackened Tofu Tacos with Creamy Slaw

If you try this air fryer shrimp tacos recipe or have a question, please let me know! Leave a comment and rate it below. I love to hear what you think, or any changes you make.