If there’s one recipe that checks every box for a fast, flavor-packed weeknight dinner, it’s honey garlic shrimp.
We’re talking juicy shrimp coated in a sticky honey garlic sauce that’s sweet, savory, slightly garlicky, and just bold enough to make you pause after the first bite. It tastes like something you ordered from your favorite takeout spot… except it’s fresher, faster, and made right in your own kitchen.
This honey garlic shrimp recipe is perfect when you want:
- A 20 minute shrimp dinner
- A quick shrimp skillet meal
- A high-protein dinner idea
- A sweet and savory shrimp dish that feels special
And here’s the thing — it’s almost impossible to mess up. Shrimp cook fast, the honey soy glaze comes together in minutes, and the whole thing feels restaurant-worthy without the stress.
Let’s break it down step-by-step.
Honey Garlic Shrimp Ingredients and Flavor Breakdown
The magic of honey garlic shrimp starts with a simple but powerful ingredient list. Nothing complicated. Nothing hard to find. Just bold flavors working together.
Here’s what you’ll need for this honey garlic shrimp recipe:
- 1 pound raw shrimp (peeled and deveined shrimp, jumbo preferred)
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1/4 cup tamari soy sauce or coconut aminos
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Sliced green onions for garnish
- Chopped cilantro or parsley
Let’s talk about why this works so well.
Honey creates that glossy, sticky honey garlic glaze that clings to every piece of shrimp. It’s what gives this dish its signature sweet finish.
Tamari soy sauce (or coconut aminos if you’re soy-free) adds depth and saltiness. This is what turns plain shrimp into shrimp with honey soy sauce flavor that tastes balanced and bold.
Garlic and ginger bring aroma and warmth. This garlic ginger shrimp combo is classic for a reason. It hits your nose before it hits your tongue.
Crushed red pepper flakes add just enough heat to keep things interesting. You can adjust depending on your spice tolerance.
The result? Sticky honey garlic shrimp that tastes layered and satisfying without needing a long ingredient list.
Honey Garlic Shrimp Step-by-Step Cooking Method
This easy honey garlic shrimp comes together in about 20 minutes. That includes marinating time.
Here’s exactly how to cook shrimp on stovetop without overthinking it.
Step 1: Make the Honey Garlic Sauce
In a small bowl, stir together honey, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes. That’s your shrimp marinade with honey base and finishing glaze all in one.
Step 2: Marinate the Shrimp
Place the raw shrimp in a bowl and pour about one-third of the sauce over them. Toss to coat evenly.
Let them sit for 15 to 20 minutes. This short marination time allows the shrimp to absorb flavor without changing texture.
If you’re wondering how to marinate shrimp properly, keep it short and simple. Shrimp don’t need hours like chicken or beef.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes per side.
Shrimp cooking time is short. They’re done when they turn pink and opaque. If they curl into a loose “C” shape, they’re perfect. If they tighten into an “O,” they’re overcooked.
Step 4: Reduce the Sauce
Pour the remaining sauce into the pan and let it simmer for about one minute. This is how to reduce sauce quickly and create that glossy honey garlic glaze.
Toss the shrimp to coat thoroughly.
Turn off the heat and finish with sliced green onions and herbs.
That’s it. Your pan seared shrimp with honey garlic sauce is ready.
Honey Garlic Shrimp Cooking Tips for Perfect Results
Making the best honey garlic shrimp recipe doesn’t require advanced skills. But a few simple tips can make a big difference.
First, use jumbo shrimp if possible. They’re less likely to overcook and give you a meatier bite.
Second, always discard the marinade that touched raw shrimp. Use the reserved sauce for simmering instead.
Third, don’t overcrowd the pan. If the shrimp are stacked, they’ll steam instead of sear. That caramelized edge is what makes shrimp skillet meals shine.
If you’re using frozen shrimp, thaw them completely and pat dry. Excess moisture prevents browning.
And finally, remember that shrimp cook fast. If you’re unsure how long to cook shrimp, err on the side of less time. They continue cooking slightly after you remove them from heat.
Honey Garlic Shrimp Serving Ideas for Every Diet
One reason honey garlic shrimp stays on repeat in so many kitchens is versatility.
Here’s how to turn this honey garlic shrimp recipe into multiple meals.
Classic Rice Plate
Serve over white rice or brown rice for a simple shrimp rice bowl. Spoon extra honey garlic glaze over the top. Add sautéed spinach or cabbage on the side.
Low Carb Option
Swap rice for cauliflower rice. This turns it into a low carb shrimp recipe that still feels satisfying.
Lettuce Wraps
Remove the tails and wrap the shrimp in butter lettuce leaves with shredded carrots and green onions. It becomes a fresh shrimp lettuce wrap situation that’s light but flavorful.
Meal Prep Bowls
Divide into containers with roasted broccoli, snap peas, or bok choy. This makes honey garlic shrimp meal prep easy for busy weeks.
If you love quick Asian-inspired dinners, you might also enjoy easy teriyaki chicken that’s better than chickout
- Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta (Slow Cooker Comfort Food Done Right)
- Potsticker Noodle Bowl (Better Than Takeout and Ready in 30 Minutes)
Keeping flavors consistent across meals makes planning easier.
Honey Garlic Shrimp Storage and Reheating Guide
If you somehow have leftovers, honey garlic shrimp stores well.
To store cooked shrimp:
- Place in an airtight container
- Refrigerate for up to 3 to 4 days
If you’re wondering how to reheat shrimp without turning them rubbery, keep it short.
Microwave for about one minute, just until warmed through.
Or reheat gently in a skillet over low heat.
Avoid overheating. Shrimp dry out quickly and lose their tender texture.
Because this is such a fast shrimp dinner idea, many people prefer making it fresh rather than reheating. But it absolutely works for meal prep shrimp planning.
Honey Garlic Shrimp Nutrition and Health Benefits
This honey garlic shrimp recipe isn’t just flavorful. It’s balanced.
Approximate nutrition per serving:
- Around 245 calories
- About 25 grams of protein
- Moderate carbohydrates from honey
- Low fat overall
Shrimp are naturally high in protein and low in fat, making this a great option for high-protein dinner goals.
If you swap white rice for cauliflower rice, you reduce carbs significantly while keeping the sweet and savory shrimp flavor intact.
The combination of garlic, ginger, and honey also adds antioxidant properties and digestive support benefits.
So yes, this sticky honey garlic shrimp feels indulgent. But it fits comfortably into many balanced eating plans.
Honey Garlic Shrimp Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes. Frozen peeled and deveined shrimp are convenient and often fresher than “fresh” seafood at the counter. Just thaw fully before cooking.
Can I make honey garlic shrimp without soy sauce?
Yes. Use coconut aminos as a substitute for a soy-free version.
How long should I marinate shrimp?
15 to 20 minutes is perfect. Longer isn’t necessary.
Can I bake instead of pan sear?
You can bake shrimp at 400°F for about 8 minutes, but the stovetop method gives a better glaze and texture.
Is honey garlic shrimp spicy?
Not heavily. The crushed red pepper flakes add mild warmth. Adjust to taste.
Honey Garlic Shrimp: The Easy 20-Minute Dinner That Beats Takeout
Description
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a small bowl, mix honey, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes.
- Place shrimp in a bowl and pour one-third of the sauce over them.
- Toss to coat and marinate for 15–20 minutes.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add shrimp in a single layer and cook 1–2 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
- Pour remaining sauce into the skillet.
- Simmer for 1–2 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Toss shrimp to coat evenly in the glaze.
- Remove from heat and garnish with green onions and herbs.
- Serve immediately.
Notes
Do not overcook shrimp to prevent rubbery texture. Thaw frozen shrimp completely and pat dry before cooking. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days and reheat gently to maintain tenderness.
Honey Garlic Shrimp Final Thoughts
Honey garlic shrimp is one of those recipes that proves simple ingredients can create big flavor.
It’s quick.
Reliable.
Family-friendly.
It works for weeknights, meal prep, or casual dinner parties.
Whether you call it sticky honey garlic shrimp, garlic shrimp with honey glaze, or shrimp with honey soy sauce, the result is the same: a fast, satisfying meal that tastes like you tried harder than you actually did.
Once you make this honey garlic shrimp recipe, it’ll probably land in your regular dinner rotation.
And honestly? That’s exactly where it belongs.
For more delicious recipe ideas, check out our Pinterest page at virlerecipes. Happy cooking!