These glazed honey garlic shrimp are sweet, sticky, and bursting with flavor! You just need shrimp, honey, garlic, and a splash of soy sauce. Quick and oh-so-tasty!
Cooking shrimp is always a win for me. They cook fast, and the honey-garlic sauce makes them extra yummy. Serve them over rice, and watch everyone come back for seconds! 🍤
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Use large shrimp for the best texture. Fresh is great, but frozen works just as well. If you’re not a seafood fan, chicken breast can be cubed and substituted instead, though cooking times will differ.
Garlic: Fresh garlic provides the best flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can be used, but adjust the amount since it’s more potent. I prefer fresh whenever possible for that lovely aroma.
Honey: This is the star for sweetness! If you need an alternative, maple syrup can work, though it will change the flavor slightly. I’ve also tried agave syrup—it’s pretty good too!
Soy Sauce: Low sodium soy sauce is perfect for controlling saltiness. If you want a gluten-free option, tamari is an excellent substitute. Some like using coconut aminos for a slightly different flavor.
Vinegar: Rice vinegar adds a delicate tang, but apple cider vinegar works just as well. I often use whatever I have on hand; both add a nice acidity to balance the sweetness.
How Can I Make Sure My Shrimp Stay Juicy and Tender?
Cooking shrimp can be tricky if you cook them too long. Here’s how to ensure they’re juicy and tender:
- Start with a hot pan and olive oil to sear the shrimp quickly.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan! Work in batches if needed for even cooking.
- Cook shrimp until they turn pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes. They will continue to cook a bit after you remove them from the heat.
Keep an eye on them, and you’ll have perfectly cooked shrimp every time!
How to Make Glazed Honey Garlic Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails on
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
- Cooked white rice, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and about 10 minutes of cooking time for a total of 20 minutes. Quick and easy enough for any weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Olive Oil:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Let it get nice and hot, but be careful not to let it smoke!
2. Cook the Shrimp:
Add the shrimp in a single layer. Sprinkle lightly with salt and pepper. Cook them for about 2 minutes on one side until they turn pink and slightly golden, then flip them over.
3. Add Garlic:
Once flipped, add the minced garlic to the pan. Cook for another minute until the shrimp are almost cooked through and the garlic is fragrant. Just be sure not to let the garlic burn!
4. Prepare the Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, vinegar, grated ginger (if using), and crushed red pepper flakes (if you like a little heat). This sauce is what gives a lovely glaze to the shrimp!
5. Combine and Cook:
Pour the honey garlic mixture over the shrimp in the skillet. Stir well to coat all the shrimp. Let them cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens and the shrimp are fully cooked. They should be pink and opaque.
6. Finishing Touches:
Remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle the dish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for a beautiful finish.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your delicious honey garlic shrimp immediately over hot cooked white rice. Enjoy the sweet and savory flavors!
This recipe yields sticky, flavorful glazed shrimp with a perfect balance of sweetness, savoriness, and garlicky goodness—just like the image shows! Happy cooking!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before using them. You can thaw them overnight in the refrigerator or place them in a sealed plastic bag and submerge in cold water for about 10-15 minutes for a quicker method.
Is There a Way to Make This Dish Spicier?
Yes! You can increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes in the sauce to your desired heat level, or add a dash of sriracha or chili sauce for extra kick. Just start small, as you can always add more!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prep the sauce ahead! Mix the honey, soy sauce, vinegar, ginger, and red pepper flakes, and store in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to cook, just stir in the shrimp!
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. Just be cautious not to overcook the shrimp in the reheating process.
