This Honey Garlic Shrimp is a quick and flavorful dinner that’s ready in just 20 minutes. Juicy shrimp are coated in a sweet and savory honey garlic sauce with hints of soy sauce and fresh garlic. Perfect for busy weeknights, this easy shrimp recipe pairs beautifully with rice, noodles, or steamed vegetables.
Honey Garlic Shrimp (20 Minutes)
Ingredients
Method
- Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and season lightly with salt and pepper.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the shrimp and cook for 1 to 2 minutes per side until pink and nearly cooked through.
- Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Add the garlic to the skillet and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour the honey mixture into the skillet and bring to a gentle simmer.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water.
- Stir the cornstarch mixture into the sauce and cook until slightly thickened.
- Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce.
- Cook for 1 to 2 more minutes until the shrimp are fully cooked and glazed.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions and serve immediately.
Notes
- Do not overcook the shrimp.
- Fresh garlic provides the best flavor.
- Use large or jumbo shrimp for the juiciest results.
- Low-sodium soy sauce helps control saltiness.
- The sauce will thicken more as it cools.
Variations
- Add broccoli for a complete meal.
- Use chicken instead of shrimp.
- Add ginger for extra flavor.
- Make it spicy with sriracha.
- Toss with noodles instead of serving over rice.
- Add sesame seeds before serving.
- Use lime juice instead of lemon juice.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve over steamed white rice.
- Pair with jasmine rice.
- Serve alongside roasted vegetables.
- Toss with lo mein noodles.
- Add to lettuce wraps.
- Serve with stir-fried vegetables.
Tips
- Pat shrimp dry before cooking for better browning.
- Prepare the sauce ahead of time for faster cooking.
- Use fresh shrimp when possible.
- Cook shrimp in a single layer.
- Avoid overcrowding the skillet.
- Garnish with extra green onions for freshness.
Prep Time, Cook Time, and Total Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings
Serves: 4 people
Nutrition Information (Approximate Per Serving)
- Calories: 260
- Protein: 24g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fat: 9g
- Sodium: 760mg
FAQs
How do I know when shrimp are fully cooked?
Shrimp cook very quickly and can become rubbery if left on the heat too long. Fully cooked shrimp turn from translucent gray to opaque pink and curl into a loose “C” shape. If they curl tightly into an “O” shape, they have likely been overcooked. For the best texture, remove them from the heat as soon as they are pink and firm.
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes. Frozen shrimp work perfectly and are often more convenient than fresh shrimp. Thaw them completely before cooking by placing them in the refrigerator overnight or running cold water over them for several minutes. Pat them dry thoroughly before cooking so they sear properly instead of steaming in the pan.
Can I make honey garlic shrimp ahead of time?
This recipe is best served immediately because shrimp have the best texture right after cooking. However, you can prepare the sauce mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to two days. When ready to cook, simply prepare the shrimp and finish the dish in minutes.
What can I serve with honey garlic shrimp?
Honey garlic shrimp pairs well with many side dishes. Popular options include steamed rice, fried rice, noodles, roasted vegetables, stir-fried broccoli, snap peas, or a simple salad. The flavorful sauce also works wonderfully spooned over rice or vegetables.
How do I make this recipe spicier?
You can increase the heat by adding more crushed red pepper flakes, a drizzle of sriracha, chili garlic sauce, or finely chopped fresh chili peppers. Start with a small amount and adjust to your preferred spice level. The sweetness of the honey balances spicy ingredients very well.
How should I store leftovers?
Store leftover honey garlic shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in short intervals in the microwave. Avoid overheating because shrimp can quickly become tough and chewy when reheated for too long.
Conclusion
Honey Garlic Shrimp is an easy weeknight dinner that combines sweet honey, savory garlic, and juicy shrimp in a delicious glazed sauce. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s a simple recipe that delivers restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort.
