Spicy Honey Garlic Shrimp

Name: Spicy Honey Garlic Shrimp
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 3 tablespoons honey; 3 tablespoons soy sauce; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon chili flakes; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped green onions for garnish

Highlighted under: International Flavor Recipes

I absolutely love whipping up Spicy Honey Garlic Shrimp for a quick dinner. The combination of heat from the chili flakes and sweetness from the honey creates a delightful flavor profile that always leaves me wanting more. The shrimp cooks up in just a matter of minutes, which is perfect for those weeknights when I'm craving something special but don't want to spend a lot of time in the kitchen. Plus, the vibrant colors make for a beautiful presentation on any table.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-18T16:18:28.331Z

Cooking Spicy Honey Garlic Shrimp has become one of my favorite go-to recipes for entertaining. When I first tested it out, the aroma alone made everyone gather in the kitchen, and the taste did not disappoint! I learned early on that marinating the shrimp for even just a few minutes enhances the flavors immensely.

What I’ve found really elevates this dish is using fresh garlic and high-quality honey. Not only do they bring out the best in the shrimp, but they also create a luscious glaze that clings beautifully to each piece. If I’m really in the mood for a kick, I’ll throw in some extra chili flakes—be careful, though; it can get spicy!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        The perfect balance of sweet and spicy flavors
Quick and easy to make for any occasion
Beautifully caramelized shrimp that impress

      

Mastering the Shrimp

Choosing the right shrimp is crucial for this dish. Look for large, fresh shrimp that are firm and smell ocean-fresh. If using frozen shrimp, ensure they are fully thawed, as adding them directly to the skillet can lead to uneven cooking. I recommend letting them sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes after thawing. This helps to ensure that the shrimp will cook evenly and develop the desired texture.

When marinating the shrimp, give them ample time to soak up the flavors. A 10-minute marination is generally effective, but if you have more time, you can extend this to about 30 minutes. Just be cautious not to marinate for too long, as the acidity from the soy sauce can begin to denature the shrimp, making them slightly mushy. For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a splash of lime juice to the marinade.

Cooking Technique

Achieving the right caramelization on the shrimp is key to elevating the dish. Ensure your skillet is hot enough before adding the shrimp; the oil should shimmer but not smoke. This temperature is essential to quickly sear the shrimp, giving you that beautiful golden color and enhancing the flavor. You may want to cook in batches if your skillet is crowded, as overcrowding will cause steaming instead of searing.

As you cook the shrimp, keep an eye on their color and texture. They should change from translucent to an opaque pink within 4-5 minutes. If they are not fully cooked by the time they turn pink, it's best to reduce the heat slightly to avoid overcooking. Remember, shrimp cook quickly and can become rubbery if left in the pan for too long. Remove them as soon as they're done to preserve their tenderness.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make the perfect Spicy Honey Garlic Shrimp:

Ingredients

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
3 tablespoons honey
3 tablespoons soy sauce
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon chili flakes
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped green onions for garnish

This mix will create a flavor explosion in your mouth!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create a delicious dish of Spicy Honey Garlic Shrimp:

Marinate the Shrimp

In a bowl, combine honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, chili flakes, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Add the shrimp and let them marinate for 10 minutes.

Heat the Oil

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the vegetable oil until shimmering.

Cook the Shrimp

Add the marinated shrimp to the skillet, discarding the marinade. Cook for about 4-5 minutes or until the shrimp is pink and opaque.

Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle chopped green onions over the shrimp and serve immediately with your favorite side dishes.

Your Spicy Honey Garlic Shrimp is now ready to enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a splash of lime juice right before serving. It brightens up the dish beautifully!

Serving Suggestions

Spicy Honey Garlic Shrimp pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, making it a versatile dish for any meal. Consider serving it over a bed of fluffy jasmine or brown rice, which will complement the sweetness of the honey. You could also use it as a filling in tacos or lettuce wraps, adding crunchy vegetables for a delightful texture contrast.

For a fresh touch, serving this dish with a cucumber salad or steamed bok choy can enhance the overall meal. A side of crusty bread is also great to soak up any leftover honey garlic sauce, ensuring that none of the delicious flavors go to waste.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors can actually deepen and improve overnight, making this a great make-ahead option for lunch. Just be sure to let the shrimp come to room temperature before reheating to maintain their texture.

To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat until heated through, around 3-5 minutes. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can make the shrimp rubbery. Adding a splash of water or a drizzle of olive oil can help keep everything moist while reheating. If you're looking to serve them cold, they make a tasty addition to salads.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely before marinating.

→ What can I serve with the shrimp?

These shrimp pair well with rice, noodles, or a fresh salad.

→ How spicy is this recipe?

The spiciness can be adjusted by adding more or less chili flakes to your liking.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While it's best served fresh, you can marinate the shrimp a few hours in advance and cook them when you're ready.