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Quick Honey Garlic Shrimp: Easy High Protein Dinner

honey garlic shrimp - featured image

This quick honey garlic shrimp is a fast, high-protein dinner that comes together in under 15 minutes. With a perfect balance of sweet honey, savory soy, and punchy garlic, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined (large or jumbo, 21–25 count)
  • 3 tablespoons honey
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (or avocado oil)
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • Sesame seeds (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

  1. Prep the shrimp: If frozen, thaw under cold running water. Pat shrimp very dry with paper towels. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
  2. Make the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, and red pepper flakes (if using). Set aside.
  3. Heat the pan: Place a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and let it shimmer for about 30 seconds.
  4. Cook the shrimp: Add shrimp in a single layer (cook in batches if needed). Sear undisturbed for 1.5 minutes, then flip and cook another 1-2 minutes until pink and opaque. Transfer to a plate.
  5. Build the sauce: Reduce heat to medium-low. Add butter to the pan. Once melted, add minced garlic and stir constantly for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the honey-soy mixture and stir. Let it bubble gently for 1 minute until slightly thickened.
  6. Combine and finish: Return cooked shrimp to the pan. Toss to coat evenly in the sauce. Remove from heat immediately.
  7. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and sesame seeds. Serve immediately over rice, noodles, or steamed vegetables.

Notes

Pat shrimp bone-dry for the best sear. Don’t overcook the garlic—stir just until fragrant. Use high heat for searing shrimp, then low heat for the sauce. Work in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding. Taste and adjust sauce before adding shrimp back.

Nutrition

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