Easy Honey Garlic Shrimp Recipe

Tasty Honey Garlic Shrimp Recipe to Wow Your Dinner Guests

Succulent shrimp dance with bold honey garlic flavors in this quick weeknight recipe.

The honey garlic shrimp delivers restaurant-quality taste with minimal kitchen effort.

Sweet and savory notes blend perfectly in each tender bite.

Weeknight dinners demand simple yet delicious solutions that satisfy hunger fast.

Seafood lovers rejoice as this recipe combines classic ingredients with effortless preparation.

Crisp and golden shrimp emerge from the pan, promising a delectable meal in just minutes.

You’ll want to make this again and again for a crowd-pleasing dinner that impresses everyone at the table.

Ways to Add a Twist to Honey Garlic Shrimp

  • Gluten-Free Swap: Replace soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos to create a gluten-free version that maintains the same savory flavor profile for those with wheat sensitivities.
  • Low-Carb Option: Skip the rice and serve shrimp over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles to reduce carbohydrate intake while keeping the dish light and satisfying.
  • Spicy Seafood Remix: Increase chili flakes or add sriracha sauce for extra heat, transforming the recipe into a fiery version that will wake up your taste buds.
  • Vegan Alternative: Swap shrimp with firm tofu or tempeh, using the same marinade and cooking technique to create a plant-based protein option that captures the original recipe's essence.

FAQs

  • Why coat shrimp in cornstarch and soy sauce before cooking?

The cornstarch helps create a protective layer that keeps shrimp tender and juicy, while the soy sauce adds a subtle seasoning that enhances the natural sweetness of the seafood.

  • How do I know when shrimp are perfectly cooked?

Look for a pink color and opaque appearance. They should curl slightly and take about 1-2 minutes per side. Overcooked shrimp become tough and rubbery, so watch them carefully.

  • Can I make this recipe spicy?

Absolutely! Add chili flakes to the honey glaze or use hot sauce for extra heat. Adjust the amount of chili flakes to match your personal spice tolerance.

  • Is this recipe good for meal prep?

Yes, but it’s best enjoyed fresh. You can prepare the sauce and marinate shrimp ahead of time, but cook them just before serving to maintain the best texture and flavor.

Reasons to Love This Honey Garlic Shrimp Recipe

  • Discover the magic of this easy honey garlic shrimp that transforms simple ingredients into a mouthwatering meal.
  • Master a no-fuss recipe that guarantees perfectly cooked, tender shrimp with a glossy, sweet-savory coating every single time.
  • Adapt this dish to suit any dining scenario – from weeknight dinners to impressive date nights or casual gatherings with friends.
  • Enjoy a restaurant-quality dish that comes together faster than ordering takeout, with minimal ingredients and maximum taste impact.

All You Need for Honey Garlic Shrimp

Main Protein:
  • Shrimp: Fresh seafood that provides the primary protein and serves as the star of this delicious dish.
Sauce and Coating Ingredients:
  • Soy Sauce, Cornstarch: Creates a velvety coating that locks in moisture and helps achieve a smooth texture for the shrimp.
  • Honey: Adds a sweet glaze that caramelizes and provides a rich, sticky finish to the shrimp.
Flavor Enhancers:
  • Garlic, Ginger: Aromatic ingredients that build a deep, savory base and add complexity to the dish.
  • Vegetable Oil: Provides the cooking medium for sautéing the shrimp and releasing the flavors of garlic and ginger.
  • Chili Flakes: Optional ingredient that introduces a gentle heat and spicy kick to the recipe.
  • Green Onions: Fresh garnish that adds a bright, crisp finish and visual appeal to the dish.

Cooking Honey Garlic Shrimp in Simple Steps

Step 1: Prepare Shrimp for Coating

Clean and pat dry the shrimp.

In a mixing bowl, whisk together:
  • Soy sauce
  • Cornstarch

Thoroughly coat each shrimp in the mixture, ensuring an even layer that will create a tender, glossy finish.

Step 2: Awaken Aromatic Flavors

Warm vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat.

Add:
  • Minced garlic
  • Minced ginger

Quickly sauté for about 30 seconds until the kitchen fills with an irresistible fragrance, being careful not to burn.

Step 3: Cook Shrimp to Perfection

Arrange shrimp in a single layer across the pan.

Cook for 1-2 minutes on each side until they transform to a beautiful pink color and become opaque.

Watch carefully to prevent overcooking.

Step 4: Create Sticky Honey Glaze

Drizzle honey over the shrimp and sprinkle:
  • Chili flakes (optional)

Toss gently to coat each shrimp in the golden, sweet glaze.

Remove from heat immediately.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle freshly chopped green onions over the shrimp.

Plate alongside:
  • Steamed rice
  • Noodles
  • Vegetable medley

Enjoy your mouthwatering honey garlic shrimp creation!

Tips for Tender and Flavorful Shrimp

  • Coat shrimp in cornstarch and soy sauce mixture to create a protective layer that locks in juices and ensures tender, silky texture.
  • Stir minced garlic and ginger quickly for just 30 seconds over medium heat, stopping before they turn bitter or scorched.
  • Cook shrimp precisely 1-2 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque, avoiding rubbery texture by removing from heat immediately after cooking.
  • Adjust chili flakes according to heat preference, adding sparingly for mild warmth or generously for spice lovers.
  • Sprinkle chopped green onions right before serving to add bright, crisp flavor and visual appeal to the dish.

How to Keep and Rewarm Honey Garlic Shrimp

  • Store leftover shrimp in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Seal tightly and keep in the refrigerator for 1-2 days maximum to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth.
  • Place shrimp in a microwave-safe dish, sprinkle a few drops of water to prevent drying. Cover with a damp paper towel and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each to ensure even warming. Stop heating once the shrimp are just heated through to avoid rubbery texture.
  • Warm a small amount of oil in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add shrimp and gently stir for 2-3 minutes until heated evenly. This method helps restore the original texture and prevents overcooking.
  • Skip freezing this dish, as shrimp lose their delicate texture and become tough when frozen and reheated. Fresh is always best for this quick and delicious recipe.

Delicious Pairings for Honey Garlic Shrimp

Savor Complementary Flavor Companions: Honey Garlic Shrimp Edition

  • Pair with Crisp Riesling: Select a slightly sweet white wine with bright acidity that balances the honey's sweetness and cuts through the shrimp's richness. German or Washington state Rieslings work perfectly.
  • Match with Jasmine Rice: Create a soft, fragrant base that absorbs the delicious garlic-honey sauce while providing a neutral canvas for the shrimp's bold flavors. The rice's gentle texture complements the tender seafood.
  • Enhance with Asian Slaw: Prepare a crunchy cabbage and carrot slaw dressed in rice vinegar and sesame oil. This side adds a tangy, fresh counterpoint to the rich, sweet shrimp, creating a balanced meal with textural contrast.
  • Serve Alongside Cucumber Salad: Slice cucumbers thinly and dress with rice vinegar, a touch of sugar, and chopped cilantro. The cool, crisp salad provides a refreshing element that cleanses the palate between bites of the sweet and savory shrimp.
Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Easy Honey Garlic Shrimp Recipe

Easy Honey Garlic Shrimp Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.6 from 23 reviews

  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Succulent honey garlic shrimp dances with sweet and savory notes, promising a quick culinary escape to coastal comfort. Delicate seafood meets bold Asian-inspired flavors, inviting you to savor each perfectly glazed bite in mere minutes.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Protein:

  • 1 pound (454 grams) shrimp (peeled and deveined)

Sauce and Seasoning Ingredients:

  • 4 tablespoons (60 milliliters) honey
  • 1 tablespoon (15 milliliters) soy sauce (non-alcoholic options like tamarind-based soy sauce)
  • 1 tablespoon (15 grams) cornstarch
  • 1/2 teaspoons minced garlic
  • 1 tablespoon (15 grams) ginger paste
  • 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for heat)

Cooking Ingredients:

  • 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) vegetable oil
  • 2 green onions, chopped

Instructions

  1. Prepare shrimp by coating them in a mixture of soy sauce and cornstarch, ensuring an even, protective layer that enhances moisture and texture. Allow shrimp to marinate briefly while assembling remaining ingredients.
  2. Warm vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat, then introduce minced garlic and ginger. Gently sauté for approximately 30 seconds until aromatic, being cautious not to burn the delicate ingredients.
  3. Arrange shrimp in a single layer within the pan, cooking for 1-2 minutes per side. Watch for color transformation to pink and opaque, indicating proper cooking without risking tough, rubbery texture.
  4. Drizzle honey across the shrimp and scatter chili flakes for optional heat. Thoroughly toss to create a glossy, caramelized coating that envelops each piece.
  5. Finish the dish by garnishing with freshly chopped green onions, adding a vibrant, crisp element. Serve immediately over your preferred base such as rice, noodles, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Notes

  • Marinate shrimp briefly to enhance tenderness and infuse more flavor, allowing the cornstarch and soy sauce mixture to penetrate the protein for a silky texture.
  • Control heat carefully to prevent garlic and ginger from burning, which can create bitter undertones and ruin the delicate flavor profile of the dish.
  • Choose fresh, high-quality shrimp for the best taste and texture, ensuring they are uniformly sized for even cooking and perfect caramelization.
  • Adjust spice levels by increasing or decreasing chili flakes, making the recipe adaptable for different heat preferences and dietary needs.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 minutes
  • Category: Dinner, Appetizer
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 12 g
  • Sodium: 450 mg
  • Fat: 14 g
  • Saturated Fat: 2 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 34 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 24 g
  • Cholesterol: 180 mg
Clara Thompson

Clara Thompson

Recipe Developer & Culinary Educator

Expertise

Developing accessible single-serving recipes, Food writing and content creation, Plant-based and allergen-friendly cooking, Culinary education and workshop facilitation

Education

​Oregon Culinary Institute (Portland, OR)
Diploma in Culinary Arts

Specialized in plant-based cooking and sustainable kitchen practices.​

Portland Community College
Certificate in Food Writing and Media

Focused on recipe writing, food photography, and digital content creation.​


Clara’s food journey began with a curiosity for color, texture, and ingredients pulled straight from the garden. Her background in plant-forward cooking and creative writing gives her a unique edge – she makes healthy, flavorful food feel inviting, not intimidating.
She specializes in meals that work for busy lives and different diets, all without sacrificing taste. Clara’s voice comes through in every recipe she writes – clear, kind, and encouraging.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star