Air Fryer Lemon Garlic Shrimp Scampi

Bright lemon, fresh garlic, and a quick toss of butter make this air fryer shrimp scampi a standout for flavor and blood sugar control. With only about 2 grams of net carbs and 24 grams of protein per serving, it delivers satisfying seafood that cooks in minutes and fits cleanly into most carb budgets. The air fryer keeps the shrimp juicy while using far less fat than a skillet, so you get restaurant-quality results without heavy sauces or flour. From a nutrition perspective, shrimp is lean and naturally low in carbs, which supports steady post-meal glucose. The protein helps promote satiety and can blunt sharp rises in blood sugar when paired with nonstarchy vegetables. Use a modest amount of heart-friendly olive oil with just enough butter for classic scampi richness. Lemon juice, zest, garlic, and parsley load the dish with bright, sodium-free flavor, which is helpful if you watch your salt intake. This method also limits caramelization of any added garlic or lemon, which keeps flavors clean and avoids bitter notes that sometimes tempt extra butter or sugar. Serve the shrimp alongside fiber-rich sides like sautéed spinach, zucchini noodles, or roasted asparagus to round out the plate. That combination of lean protein and nonstarchy vegetables is a reliable template for air fryer meals low carb. For best results, buy large shrimp, 16 to 20 or 21 to 25 count. Pat them very dry, then toss with olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Preheat your reliable [air fryer](https://rocktopgear.com/amazon), arrange shrimp in a single layer, and cook at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 5 to 7 minutes, flipping once. They are done when opaque, pink, and C-shaped. A quick-read [meat thermometer](https://rocktopgear.com/amazon) can help you avoid overcooking; aim for tender shrimp around 120 to 125 degrees. Finish with a warm splash of lemon juice, a small pat of butter, and parsley. Serve over zucchini ribbons, cauliflower rice, or a simple arugula salad. For weekly variety, pair this with other protein-forward favorites such as air fryer meatballs, low net carb air fryer ribeye, or a high protein air fryer steak like our [Keto Garlic Butter Steak](/recipes/keto-garlic-steak). Keep snacks balanced with batch-prepped air fryer beef jerky. For more technique confidence, see [our guide to crispy air fryer chicken](/blog/crispy-chicken-tips). Leftovers keep 2 days in the refrigerator; reheat gently in the air fryer at 350 degrees for 2 to 3 minutes to prevent rubbery texture.

Prep: 10 min. Cook: 7 min. Servings: 4.

Ingredients

• 1 lb large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined, tail on optional
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 4 garlic cloves, finely minced
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• 2 tbsp low sodium chicken broth
• 1 tsp white wine vinegar
• 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
• 1/4 tsp fine sea salt, or to taste
• 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
• Optional: 1 tbsp grated Parmesan for serving
• Optional: extra lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

1. Preheat the air fryer to 400 F for 3 minutes. Place a small 7 to 8 inch oven safe pan or a foil lined insert in the basket to catch the scampi juices.
2. In a bowl, whisk the melted butter, olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, chicken broth, white wine vinegar, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.
3. Pat the shrimp very dry with paper towels, then toss with the scampi mixture until evenly coated.
4. Arrange the shrimp in a single layer in the preheated pan or lined basket. Spoon a little of the liquid over the top so everything stays moist.
5. Air fry at 400 F for 5 to 6 minutes, shaking the pan or gently stirring once at the 3 minute mark, until the shrimp are opaque and just firm. If desired, confirm 120 F in the thickest shrimp with a meat thermometer.
6. Transfer shrimp to a serving bowl and pour any pan juices over the top. Toss with parsley and the optional Parmesan.
7. Serve immediately with extra lemon wedges. For a low carb side, pair with zucchini noodles or steamed asparagus.

View full recipe on Low Carb Air Fryer