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Close-up of glossy honey garlic shrimp served with brown rice and steamed broccoli in a rustic bowl.
Reda

15-Minute Sticky Honey Garlic Shrimp

Juicy, tender shrimp are pan-seared to perfection and tossed in an irresistible sticky, sweet and savory honey garlic sauce. This is the ultimate quick and easy weeknight dinner, ready in just 15 minutes!
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Prep Time 8 minutes
Cook Time 7 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Asian-Inspired
Calories: 345
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Shrimp
  • 1 lb large shrimp peeled and deveined, tails on or off
  • 1 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper freshly ground
For the Honey Garlic Sauce
  • 1/3 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free
  • 4 cloves garlic finely minced
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tsp sesame oil toasted
  • 1 tsp cornstarch
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes optional, for a little heat
For Garnish (Optional)
  • 1 tbsp sesame seeds toasted
  • 2 tbsp green onions thinly sliced

Equipment

  • Large skillet or wok
  • Small mixing bowl
  • Whisk

Method
 

Prepare Ingredients
  1. Pat the peeled and deveined shrimp completely dry with paper towels. Season them with salt and pepper. This is crucial for getting a good sear.
  2. In a small mixing bowl, whisk together all the sauce ingredients: honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, rice vinegar, sesame oil, cornstarch, and optional red pepper flakes. Whisk until the cornstarch is fully dissolved and the sauce is smooth. Set aside.
Cook the Shrimp
  1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the shrimp in a single layer. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan; cook in two batches if necessary.
  2. Cook the shrimp for 1-2 minutes per side, just until they turn pink and opaque. Do not overcook. Immediately remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
Make the Sauce & Finish
  1. Reduce the heat to medium-low. Give the sauce another quick whisk and pour it into the hot skillet.
  2. Bring the sauce to a simmer, stirring constantly. Let it bubble gently for 1-2 minutes, or until it has thickened enough to coat the back of a spoon. The cornstarch will activate with the heat.
  3. Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet with the sauce. Toss gently to coat all the shrimp evenly in the sticky glaze. Cook for just 30 seconds more to heat the shrimp through.
  4. Remove from heat immediately. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions. Serve hot over rice, noodles, or with steamed vegetables.

Notes

Do Not Overcook Shrimp: Shrimp cooks very quickly. They are done when they curl into a 'C' shape and turn pink. If they curl into a tight 'O', they are overcooked and will be rubbery.
Serving Suggestions: This honey garlic shrimp is delicious served over a bed of fluffy white or brown rice, quinoa, or with steamed broccoli or asparagus.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.