Name: Honey Chili Garlic Shrimp
Prep time: 7 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Ingredients: 1¼ pounds shrimp (20 to 25 count), peeled and deveined; 4 cloves garlic, minced; ¾ teaspoon kosher salt; 2 tablespoons olive oil; ¼ cup sweet chili sauce; Salt and pepper, to taste

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This Honey Chili Garlic Shrimp is a sweet, spicy, and garlicky stir-fry that’s ready in just 15 minutes. Juicy shrimp are pan-seared to perfection and tossed in a vibrant sweet chili sauce, creating an irresistible glaze that clings to every bite. It’s the ideal recipe for a quick weeknight dinner, light lunch, or flavorful appetizer.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish comes together quickly with minimal ingredients but packs a bold flavor punch. The sweetness of the honey chili sauce balances perfectly with the heat and garlic, making it a favorite for spice lovers and seafood fans alike. It’s naturally gluten-free, high in protein, and pairs easily with rice, noodles, or vegetables for a complete meal.

Honey Chili Garlic Shrimp

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

shrimp (20 to 25 count), peeled and deveined
garlic, minced
kosher salt
olive oil
sweet chili sauce
salt and pepper, to taste

directions

In a large bowl, toss the peeled and deveined shrimp with minced garlic and kosher salt.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat.
Once the oil is hot, add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2–3 minutes per side, or until shrimp are bright orange and opaque.
Drizzle the sweet chili sauce over the shrimp and toss to coat evenly.
Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
Serve immediately with rice, noodles, or steamed vegetables.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4 servings
Prep Time: 7 minutes
Cook Time: 8 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Calories per serving: 197 kcal

Variations

Spicier Kick: Add a dash of red pepper flakes or a squeeze of sriracha for extra heat.
Citrus Zest: Finish with a squeeze of lime or a sprinkle of zest for added brightness.
Honey Swap: Mix equal parts honey and hot sauce if you don’t have sweet chili sauce.
Ginger Flavor: Add a teaspoon of freshly grated ginger to the garlic for extra warmth.
Grilled Version: Skewer the shrimp and grill them, brushing with the sauce as they cook.
Veggie Add-Ins: Toss in bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli for a more complete stir-fry.

storage/reheating

Store any leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat until warmed through. Avoid microwaving for too long, as shrimp can become rubbery. This dish is not ideal for freezing, as the texture of the shrimp may change upon thawing.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture in the pan.

What’s the best size shrimp to use?

Medium to large shrimp (20–25 count per pound) work best for even cooking and great texture.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It’s best served fresh, but you can prep the shrimp and sauce ahead and cook just before serving.

What is sweet chili sauce?

It’s a Thai-inspired condiment made with red chilies, vinegar, sugar, and garlic — sweet and mildly spicy.

Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?

Yes, but reduce the cooking time to just heat them through, or they may become overcooked and rubbery.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Most sweet chili sauces are gluten-free, but check the label to be sure. Everything else in the recipe is naturally gluten-free.

What can I serve with this?

Serve over jasmine rice, rice noodles, quinoa, or with stir-fried vegetables for a full meal.

Can I bake the shrimp instead?

Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 8–10 minutes, then toss with sauce before serving.

What oil works best?

Olive oil adds flavor, but you can also use avocado or sesame oil for a slightly different taste.

Can I use other seafood?

Yes, scallops or chunks of firm white fish can be substituted — just adjust the cook time accordingly.

Conclusion

Honey Chili Garlic Shrimp is the perfect blend of bold flavor and effortless cooking. With just a few pantry staples and under 20 minutes, you’ll have a delicious dish that’s versatile enough for busy weeknights or casual entertaining. Serve it over your favorite grains or greens and enjoy a satisfying, flavorful meal that’s sure to become a regular in your recipe rotation.