10-Minute Honey Garlic Shrimp Recipe — Quick Weeknight Recipe (Easy, Sticky, Restaurant-Style)

This 10-minute honey garlic shrimp recipe gives you a glossy, sticky, restaurant-style dinner that comes together in the time it takes to steam rice. It’s ideal for busy weeknights, quick date nights, or when you want a high-impact meal without fuss.

The method relies on simple technique: pat-dry shrimp for a fast sear, prepare a balanced honey-garlic sauce before heating the pan, and finish with a quick reduction so the glaze clings to every piece. The result is tender, slightly caramelized shrimp coated in a sweet-savory sauce with optional heat and bright acidity.

What is Honey Garlic Shrimp?

Honey garlic shrimp is a quick pan-cooked seafood dish where shrimp are seared and then tossed in a shiny sauce made from honey, garlic, soy sauce (or alternative), and an acid such as rice vinegar or lemon juice.

The cooking technique borrows from East Asian pan-sauté traditions where a short, high-heat sear develops flavor and a simple sauce is built in the same pan to use the fond — the brown bits left behind — as a concentrated flavor base. Honey brings sweetness and shine, garlic supplies savory aromatic depth, and soy sauce provides umami and salt.

Many home cooks add ginger, sesame oil, or chili for additional layers. Because shrimp cooks in minutes, honey garlic shrimp is one of the fastest dinners possible while remaining impressive and satisfying.

Nutritional Highlights

• This recipe emphasizes high-quality lean protein from shrimp with modest carbohydrate contribution from honey and negligible added saturated fat when cooked with minimal oil.
• Shrimp is an excellent source of complete protein and delivers important micronutrients such as vitamin B12, iodine, selenium, and small amounts of omega-3 fatty acids.
• Garlic supplies bioactive sulfur compounds that may have immune-supporting and cardiovascular benefits.
• Honey provides simple sugars and energy; using the quantity listed balances sweetness and flavor without excessive added sugar per serving when combined with vegetables and whole grain sides.
• Swapping to reduced-sodium soy sauce, using a moderate amount of oil, and pairing the dish with fiber-rich vegetables improves the overall nutritional profile.
• When portioned consciously and complemented by vegetables and whole grains, this recipe can be part of a balanced weeknight meal.

Also read: Flavor-Packed Shrimp Fried Rice

Main Ingredients and Quantities (Serves 4 — full recipe yields approximately 4 modest servings)

Below are the exact ingredient quantities and short explanations about each ingredient’s role in the recipe.

• Raw shrimp (peeled and deveined, medium/large) — 1 pound (450 g). Shrimp is the primary protein; choose fresh or fully thawed frozen shrimp. Medium or large sizes cook quickly and hold a nice bite. Keep tails on for presentation if you like.
• Neutral oil (avocado or grapeseed) or light olive oil — 1 tablespoon (15 ml). For high-heat searing. Use minimal oil to prevent heavy calories while ensuring even browning.
• Fresh garlic, finely minced — 4 cloves (about 12 g). Core aromatic ingredient providing savory pungency. Fresh garlic brightens the sauce; add toward the end of sautéing aromatics to avoid bitterness.
• Raw honey — 3 tablespoons (63 g). Sweetens and gives the glossy finish characteristic of the dish. Adjust to taste if you want less sugar.
• Low-sodium soy sauce — 3 tablespoons (45 ml). Adds umami and salt; tamari is a gluten-free substitute and coconut aminos work for soy-free options (note: coconut aminos are sweeter and lower in sodium).
• Rice vinegar (or fresh lemon juice) — 1 tablespoon (15 ml). Provides balance and brightness to prevent the sauce from being cloying.
• Sesame oil (to finish) — 1 teaspoon (5 ml), optional. Adds toasty aroma; add at the very end off heat so the aroma remains vibrant.
• Cornstarch — 1 teaspoon (4 g) mixed with 2 tablespoons (30 ml) cold water to create a slurry, optional. Thickens the sauce quickly to a clingy glaze.
• Fresh ginger, grated — 1 teaspoon (about 2 g), optional. Adds warmth and aromatic complexity; pairs beautifully with garlic.
• Red pepper flakes or chili paste — 1/4 teaspoon to 1/2 teaspoon (0.5–1 g), optional. For a spicy kick; use less or omit for milder tastes.
• Green onions (scallions), thinly sliced — 2 stalks (about 12 g). Fresh garnish that adds color and mild onion flavor.
• Sesame seeds — 1 teaspoon (2 g), optional garnish. Visual and textural accent.
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper — to taste, minimal use recommended because soy sauce contributes saltiness.
• Rice or cauliflower rice (for serving) — amounts vary by portion; for four servings, plan roughly 2 cups cooked rice total, or substitute as desired.

Total prepared yield: The sauce and shrimp combined will comfortably serve four as part of a meal with rice and vegetables. If serving as a main for two with larger portions, this recipe scales well.

Also read: Cucumber Sushi Recipe

How to Prepare Honey Garlic Shrimp

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp and Mise en Place

Begin by preparing the shrimp and organizing your ingredients. If using frozen shrimp, thaw them completely by running the sealed bag under cold water until fully defrosted. Once thawed, pat each shrimp thoroughly dry with paper towels — dry shrimp will sear instead of steam, creating color and concentrating their natural sweetness.

If any moisture remains, blot again until the surface is dry. Remove shells and tails if you prefer an easy-to-eat presentation, and season the peeled shrimp lightly with a pinch of salt and a few grinds of black pepper.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce Mixture

Before heating the pan, mix the sauce ingredients so everything is ready to go. In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar (or lemon juice), minced garlic, grated ginger (if using), and optional chili paste or red pepper flakes.

If you plan to thicken the sauce, combine 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to make a slurry and set it aside. Having this mixture prepped ensures a smooth workflow and prevents overcooking the shrimp while you measure ingredients later.

Step 3: Sear the Shrimp

Heat a large nonstick or well-seasoned stainless steel skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of neutral oil and wait until it shimmers but does not smoke — test readiness by flicking a small drop of water into the pan; it should sizzle immediately.

Add the shrimp in a single layer without overcrowding (overcrowding causes steaming instead of searing). Cook for 1.5 to 2 minutes per side, flipping once, until lightly golden and opaque in the center. The shrimp will curl slightly as they cook.
Once done, remove the shrimp to a warm plate — they’ll finish cooking in the sauce later.

Step 4: Build and Thicken the Sauce

Reduce the heat to medium and add a small splash of oil or 1 teaspoon of butter if the pan seems dry. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, stirring constantly for about 20–30 seconds until fragrant but not browned (burnt garlic tastes bitter).

Immediately pour in the pre-mixed honey-soy-vinegar sauce and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir and scrape up any browned bits (fond) from the pan bottom with a wooden spoon — these bits add rich flavor to the sauce.
If using the cornstarch slurry, whisk it in now and simmer for 30–60 seconds, until the sauce thickens into a glossy glaze that coats the back of a spoon.

Step 5: Combine Shrimp and Sauce

Return the seared shrimp to the pan. Toss gently to coat every piece in the sticky glaze. Cook for 30 seconds to 1 minute, just until the shrimp are heated through and fully infused with the sauce. Avoid overcooking — shrimp become rubbery if heated too long.

Remove the pan from the heat and drizzle in 1 teaspoon of sesame oil for aroma (do not cook the sesame oil, as its flavor fades with heat).

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Transfer the glazed shrimp to a serving platter and top with thinly sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
Serve immediately with steamed rice, cauliflower rice, or stir-fried vegetables for a balanced plate of protein, carbohydrates, and fiber.

Also read: Healthy Shrimp Recipes

Healthy Habits and Serving Suggestions

To make the dish more nutrient-dense, increase vegetable volume and choose a whole-grain or vegetable base: brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice provides fiber and slow-digesting carbohydrates that moderate glycemic impact.

Pair the shrimp with a side of steamed or sautéed greens such as bok choy, broccoli, or snap peas to increase vitamin and mineral intake without adding many calories. To reduce added sugar while keeping the glaze lively, decrease honey to two tablespoons and increase the acid by a teaspoon or add more ginger and garlic for extra flavor; a small splash of low-sodium soy + extra vinegar preserves umami without sweetness.

For lower sodium, choose reduced-sodium soy sauce or tamari and taste before adding extra salt. Use minimal oil—1 tablespoon is sufficient for searing if you use a good nonstick pan—and opt for a high-quality neutral oil with a higher proportion of unsaturated fats (avocado, grapeseed, or light olive oil).

Increase aromatic herbs and citrus finishing elements like lime wedges or chopped cilantro to enhance perceived brightness, which allows you to reduce sodium and sugar while keeping flavor vivid. When packing leftovers for lunch, include a generous portion of raw or roasted vegetables on the side to extend satiety with fiber. For dinner you can also try Crispy Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Recipe.

Variations

1) Spicy Honey Garlic Shrimp

Add heat by incorporating 1/2 teaspoon of chili garlic sauce or 1 teaspoon of sambal oelek into the honey-soy mixture. The paste integrates seamlessly and brings a layered spice—initial heat followed by the honey’s sweetness—perfect for spice lovers. Keep the chili amount adjustable: start with less and add according to taste to avoid overwhelming the shrimp’s delicate flavor.

Serve the spicy version over steamed jasmine rice with quick-pickled cucumbers and a lime wedge to provide cooling contrast. Add fresh cilantro and thinly sliced red chilies on top for visual appeal and a fresh bite. For a heartier plate, toss the glazed shrimp with rice noodles and blanched vegetables to make a spicy sweet noodle bowl.

2) Citrus Honey Garlic Shrimp

Brighten the sauce by substituting half of the rice vinegar with fresh orange juice or lime juice and add 1 teaspoon of citrus zest. The citrus cuts through the honey’s sweetness and adds a vibrant, summery aroma ideal for light dinners or when paired with grilled vegetables. Add the juice toward the end of reduction to preserve fresh notes.

This citrus version pairs beautifully with coconut rice and grilled pineapple for a tropical flair. Serve with a crisp side salad of cucumber, mango, and red onion dressed in lime to complement the shrimp’s citrus profile. For an elegant presentation, garnish with microgreens or finely chopped mint.

3) Garlic Butter Honey Shrimp (Richer)

For a richer, more indulgent finish, swap the neutral oil for 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter and finish the sauce with an additional tablespoon of butter swirled in off the heat. The butter enhances mouthfeel and gives the glaze a luxurious sheen. Increase vinegar slightly to maintain balance so the dish does not become cloying.

Serve this version over creamy polenta, mashed potatoes, or buttered egg noodles to match the sauce’s richness. Add a side of sautéed spinach or roasted asparagus to provide textural contrast and fresh green notes to cut the richness. This approach makes the dish feel restaurant-level indulgent at home.

4) Asian-Inspired Shrimp Bowl (Meal Prep Friendly)

Build a bowl by combining the honey garlic shrimp with brown rice or quinoa, shredded carrots, quick-pickled cucumbers, edamame, and a handful of steamed bok choy. Drizzle a little toasted sesame oil and scatter chopped cilantro for aroma. The assembly is perfect for meal prep; keep the sauce separate in a small container to preserve texture until serving.

For variety, add roasted sweet potato cubes or thinly sliced avocado as toppings. Include a small container of sriracha mayo or chili oil for guests to customize heat. This variation stretches the shrimp into a balanced, fibrous lunch or dinner option that packs well for workdays.

5) Low-Sugar, Low-Sodium Honey Garlic Shrimp

Reduce honey to 1 tablespoon and add a tablespoon of unsweetened orange juice concentrate if you desire mouthfeel without excess sugar, or use a natural sugar substitute measured to taste. Use reduced-sodium tamari or dilute regular soy sauce with water and replace part of the seasoning with extra garlic, ginger, and lemon juice to counterbalance reduced salt. Thickening with a cornstarch slurry allows the smaller amount of sugar to still produce a glossy glaze.

Serve this version over cauliflower rice and a large portion of roasted or steamed non-starchy vegetables—broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or green beans—to maintain a low-carbohydrate plate. Taste carefully during cooking; small adjustments of acid and aromatics can retain the classic flavor profile without the sugar and sodium load.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Classic pairing is steamed rice and a generous portion of vegetables—broccoli, snap peas, or bok choy—tossed with a little sesame oil and soy for harmony. For lower carbs, serve over cauliflower rice, spiralized zucchini, or a bed of mixed greens for a warm salad. For a hand-held option, stuff the glazed shrimp into butter lettuce leaves with a slaw of shredded carrot and cucumber for a fresh, crunchy taco-style experience.

Beverage pairings include light, aromatic white wines like sauvignon blanc or a dry riesling that complement the sweet-savory contrast without overwhelming seafood. For nonalcoholic pairing, sparkling water with a twist of lime or iced green tea is refreshing and palate-cleansing.

Storage and Reheating

Leftovers keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat without overcooking, warm gently in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of water to loosen the sauce; heat only until warmed through. Microwaving is fast but risks rubbery shrimp; if you must microwave, do short bursts at medium power and check frequently. Avoid refreezing cooked shrimp; instead, freeze uncooked shrimp and prepare fresh when needed.

Shopping and Ingredient Selection Notes

Choose shrimp labeled sustainably sourced or wild-caught if that aligns with your values. Fresh shrimp should smell briny, not fishy; frozen shrimp is often perfectly fine and sometimes fresher due to immediate freezing at catch.

For the sauce, raw or mild-flavored honey provides the best texture and flavor; stronger-flavored honeys can dominate. If substituting soy-free or gluten-free versions, account for flavor differences and adjust acid and sweet levels to maintain balance.

Closing Thoughts

This quick & easy honey garlic shrimp recipe proves that a fast cook time does not mean compromise on flavor. With a few pantry staples and a simple technique, you can create a dish with restaurant-level gloss and depth in ten minutes.

The balance of sweet honey, aromatic garlic, savory soy, and bright acid makes the sauce universally appealing, and the recipe’s variations offer ways to tune heat, richness, or dietary needs. Keep the method in your repertoire for busy evenings when you want a satisfying, flavorful meal without lengthy prep or cleanup.