Sizzling shrimp in garlic butter truly evokes childhood memorieslike Friday nights at Mom’s, where dinner danced in the skillet and the aroma promised something delicious. This High Protein Honey Garlic Shrimp is gaining immense popularity online, and it’s easy to see why. It’s sweet, sticky, loaded with protein, and comes together faster than you can scroll through TikTok.
This effortless one-pan dish combines succulent shrimp with a quick honey-garlic glaze and a savory splash of soy sauce, delivering that comforting, umami punch. It’s pantry-friendly, naturally low carb, and quicker than ordering takeoutthink your favorite stir-fry with minimal cleanup. It’s an excellent choice for healthy shrimp recipes or a satisfying high-protein seafood fix.
I first whipped this up while mediating a sibling debate over dishwasher dutyso yes, it’s truly chaos-tested. My family has requested it three times since, and my picky eater even dubbed it “candy shrimp,” which I consider a monumental win. I’ve refined this recipe to perfection, and I’m confident you’ll love the results!
Why You’ll Love This High-Protein Dish
Let me tell you, this high-protein shrimp recipe is a keeper for so many compelling reasons. First, it’s ridiculously quickyou can have it on the table in under 20 minutes, from start to finish. That’s less time than it takes my family to remember their homework! Second, it’s a delightful blend of sweet and savory, offering all kinds of cozy comfort, with that honey-garlic sauce coating every juicy shrimp like a warm, culinary hug.
It also effortlessly ticks those health-conscious boxes. Low carb? Absolutely. Protein-packed? Double yes! Essentially, it’s the ideal choice when you need a delicious meal that feels indulgent but remains light enough to keep you on track. And because it’s all whipped up in one skillet, there’s significantly less mess to deal with, which is always my favorite kind of bonus after a busy day.
Key Ingredients & Tools
This dish relies on simple pantry staples, and if you’re a shrimp enthusiast, chances are you already have most of them on hand. Let’s break down what you’ll need:
Shrimp: The undisputed star of the show. Opt for large shrimp, peeled and deveined, to save precious prep time. Shrimp are naturally high in protein and cook in mere minutes, making them perfect for a quick meal. You can use fresh or frozen (thawed) shrimp.
Honey: This natural sweetener provides that irresistible sticky glaze and perfectly balances the savory soy sauce.
Garlic: Freshly minced cloves are essential herethey truly amp up the flavor-packed sauce, adding aromatic depth.
Soy Sauce: Forms the savory, umami-rich base that ties all the flavors together. Feel free to use low-sodium soy sauce or tamari for a gluten-free option.
Olive Oil: Used for searing the shrimp and adding a silky texture to the finished sauce. Avocado oil is a great alternative for higher heat cooking.
Pro Tip: For a thicker, more luscious sauce, keep a teaspoon of cornstarch handy to create a slurry. It’s optional, but it definitely elevates the glaze!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Ready to discover just how easy this recipe is? Let’s dive in, step by step:
Prep the shrimp: First, rinse your shrimp under cold water and then pat them thoroughly dry with a paper towel. Dry shrimp are crucial for achieving a beautiful sear and preventing a watery sauce!
Make the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, and olive oil until well combined. If you desire a thicker glaze, now is the time to whisk in 1 teaspoon of cornstarch until smooth.
Sear the shrimp: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet (non-stick or cast iron works well) over medium-high heat. Arrange the shrimp in a single layer, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Sprinkle them with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Cook for just 2–3 minutes per side, until the shrimp turn pink and opaque and begin to curl into a “C” shape.
Add the sauce: Once the shrimp are mostly cooked, pour the prepared honey garlic mixture evenly over them. Toss gently to coat every shrimp. Reduce the heat to a simmer and let the sauce bubble for about 3–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the shrimp are fully cooked through and the sauce has thickened to a glossy, clinging glaze.
Garnish & Serve: Remove the skillet from the heat immediately. Garnish generously with thinly sliced green onions and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for an extra pop of flavor and crunch. Serve hot!
Step
Time
Prep Shrimp
5 minutes
Mix Sauce
2 minutes
Cook Shrimp
7 minutes
Pro Tips & Variations
Because we all appreciate flexibility in the kitchen, here are some fun tweaks and troubleshooting tips to make this dish your own:
Protein Swaps: No shrimp on hand? No problem! This versatile honey-garlic sauce pairs beautifully with other proteins. You can easily substitute with cubed chicken breast, firm tofu, or even succulent scallops. Adjust cooking times accordingly for different proteins.
Thicker Sauce Hack: If your sauce appears a little too thin for your liking, simply create a cornstarch slurry by mixing 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of cold water until smooth. Stir this mixture into the simmering sauce and cook for another minute or two until it reaches your desired thickness.
Spice It Up: Craving a bit of heat? A generous sprinkle of red pepper flakes added to the sauce, or a drizzle of sriracha just before serving, will introduce an exciting kick to the dish!
Note: Be mindful not to overcook shrimp, as they can quickly become rubbery. Always lean on the visual cue of “just pink and curled” rather than strictly adhering to timing by the clock for the most tender results.
Serving, Storage & Reheating
This high-protein honey garlic shrimp dish is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving! For a classic meal, serve it over fluffy steamed rice. For a low-carb twist, cauliflower rice is an excellent option. Veggie noodles like zucchini or sweet potato spirals also make a fun and healthy alternative. It’s also fantastic tossed into a quick shrimp stir-fry with your favorite colorful vegetables.
When it comes to enjoying leftovers, here’s your game plan:
Storage: Store any leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: To preserve their tender texture, gently warm the shrimp in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of water or broth to help keep the sauce silky and prevent drying. Avoid reheating shrimp in the microwave, as it can easily overcook them and make them rubbery.
Storage Method
Time
Fridge
Up to 3 days
Freezer (uncooked shrimp only)
Up to 2 months
Pro Tip: Consider doubling the sauce recipe and freezing half separately. That way, the next time a honey garlic shrimp craving hits, you’re already halfway to a delicious meal!
Expert Insight: The Nutritional Benefits of High Protein Honey Garlic Shrimp
Incorporating shrimp into a high-protein honey garlic shrimp dish is an exceptionally smart and flavorful way to boost your lean protein intake. Shrimp are not only low in calories but also packed with essential nutrients like selenium, which supports immune function, and vitamin B12, crucial for nerve health and energy production. They also contain omega-3 fatty acids, beneficial for heart health, and are an excellent source of iodine. This makes the recipe both incredibly nutritious and satisfying, supporting muscle recovery, weight management, and overall well-being.
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How I Finally Mastered My High-Protein Honey Garlic Shrimp
This high-protein honey garlic shrimp recipe didn’t come together overnight. After accidentally caramelizing the garlic one too many times, experimenting with different soy-to-honey ratios, and tweaking the sauce balance through countless family dinners, I finally nailed that perfect sweet-savory hit. Today’s version is the delicious culmination of all those trial-and-error evenings spent in my busy kitchen, resulting in a dish that’s truly foolproof and bursting with flavor.
FAQs ( High-Protein Honey Garlic Shrimp )
How do I make the shrimp tender and juicy?
To keep shrimp tender, cook them quickly over medium-high heat until they turn pink and opaque, usually 2-3 minutes per side. Avoid overcooking as shrimp toughen rapidly. Marinating briefly in lemon juice or a bit of honey garlic sauce before cooking adds extra moisture and flavor.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, you can easily make the stir-fry gluten-free by using tamari or a certified gluten-free soy sauce instead of regular soy sauce. Also, check that any store-bought honey garlic sauce or other condiments contain no gluten ingredients. This keeps it safe while preserving the great flavors.
Can I substitute the protein in this recipe?
Absolutely! This honey garlic sauce works well with other high protein seafood like scallops or firm fish fillets. You can also try chicken breast or tofu if you want a non-seafood version. Adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure even doneness.
What is the best side dish for this shrimp stir-fry?
This dish pairs nicely with steamed vegetables or cauliflower rice for a low carb shrimp dinner. You can also serve it over quinoa or brown rice to add fiber and round out the meal. Light, crisp sides complement the sweet and savory sauce perfectly.
How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When reheating, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave to avoid overcooking the shrimp. Adding a splash of water or broth helps maintain moisture during reheating.
Conclusion
This High Protein Honey Garlic Shrimp recipe truly is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a busy weeknight. Ready in under 20 minutes, it delivers tender, succulent shrimp glazed with that irresistible sweet and savory honey-garlic sauce. You’ll love how the rich sauce clings to every bite, filling your kitchen with cozy, aromatic scents that are sure to bring everyone to the table.
Here’s a little secret from my kitchen: for an added layer of flavor and a gentle warmth, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce. And remember, when dealing with leftovers, gently reheat the shrimp in a skillet with a splash of water or brothavoid the microwave at all costs to keep them perfectly juicy! It’s these small tricks that elevate a quick recipe into a cherished family favorite, every time.
Has this dish become your family’s new “candy shrimp”? We’d love to see it! Snap a pic and share your story, or simply save this recipe for the next time life feels a bit too hectic. Because good food isn’t just about eating; it’s about creating moments, making memories, and perhaps even enjoying a little playful chaos in the kitchen.
This High Protein Honey Garlic Shrimp recipe is quick and easy, perfect for a healthy seafood dinner. Enjoy a flavorful honey garlic sauce combined with protein packed shrimp, making it a delicious low carb shrimp dinner option.
Ingredients
Scale
1 pound large shrimp peeled and deveined
1/4 cup honey
4 cloves garlic minced
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon cornstarch optional for thickening
Salt and pepper to taste
2 green onions sliced for garnish
Sesame seeds for garnish optional
Instructions
Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
In a bowl, combine honey minced garlic soy sauce and olive oil. If you prefer a thicker sauce stir in cornstarch.
In a large skillet heat some olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer.
Sprinkle the shrimp with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for 2-3 minutes until they start turning pink.
Pour the honey garlic mixture over the shrimp. Toss to ensure all pieces are coated evenly.
Lower the heat and let the shrimp simmer in the sauce for an additional 3-5 minutes or until cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
Remove from heat and garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
Enjoy your dish immediately while it’s still warm.
Sharing a handpicked collection of easy, healthy recipes made in our family kitchen. Rachel brings comforting classics, while Emily adds fresh, modern ideas together creating meals that are simple, flavorful, and family-friendly.
