This Air Fryer Scallops recipe is ready in under 15 minutes! Large sea scallops are drizzled in fresh lemon juice, seasoned to perfection, and air fried for the perfect texture.
Pat the scallops dry. Dry scallops will cook at an even and consistent temperature. Combine the scallops in a bowl with all of the ingredients.
Place the scallops in the air fryer in one single layer. Do not stack. Cook batches if needed.
When you remove the scallops from the bowl and place them in the air fryer, you may notice you have remaining liquid marinade in the bottom of the bowl. I like to use a cooking brush to glaze the top of the scallops once they are in the air fryer to ensure optimal flavor.
Cook on 400 degrees for 6-8 minutes.
The top of the scallop should be slightly golden-brown and the sides should look opaque all the way through. The scallops should feel firm to the touch, but still slightly soft. Overcooked scallops become tough and chewy.
Notes
Sea scallops will work best in this recipe. Bay scallops are small and are great for pastas and soups.
Every air fryer cooks at varying speeds. Your cook time may vary. Keep a close watch on the scallops to avoid overcooking them.
These will not have a thick brown crust like pan-seared scallops. If the scallops have a thick brown crust, you cooked them too long.
The top of the scallop should be slightly golden-brown and the sides should look opaque all the way through. The scallops should feel firm to the touch, but still slightly soft. Overcooked scallops become tough and chewy.