HONEY GARLIC SHRIMP PERFECTION

I’ll never forget the first time I made a version of these bowls for a potluck – everyone devoured them! I was scrambling to find a quick, impressive dish, and the sweet, savory, garlicky goodness of shrimp seemed like the perfect solution. Little did I know that the simple combination of flavors would become a staple in my kitchen, morphing and adapting to my ever-changing cravings. Today, I’m sharing all my secrets for the most amazing Honey Garlic Shrimp Bowls you’ll ever make!

Why You’ll Absolutely Love These Honey Garlic Shrimp Bowls

Okay, friend, let’s get real. We all crave delicious, healthy-ish meals that don’t take an eternity to prepare, right? These Honey Garlic Shrimp Bowls are *exactly* that. They’re bursting with flavor, surprisingly easy to make, and completely customizable to your liking. Think plump, juicy shrimp coated in a glistening, sticky-sweet honey garlic sauce, nestled on a bed of fluffy rice and piled high with your favorite veggies. Are you hungry yet? I know I am!

But here’s the thing: these bowls aren’t just about convenience; they’re about creating a symphony of textures and tastes that will make your taste buds sing. The sweetness of the honey, the pungent aroma of garlic, the slight tang of soy sauce, the subtle kick of red pepper flakes – it all comes together in perfect harmony. And the best part? You probably already have most of the ingredients in your pantry!

So, are you ready to dive in? Let’s do this!

The Ultimate Honey Garlic Shrimp Bowl Recipe

This recipe is my tried-and-true method for creating shrimp bowl perfection. Don’t be intimidated by the ingredient list; it’s mostly pantry staples! I’ve broken it down into easy-to-follow steps so you can confidently create a restaurant-worthy meal in the comfort of your own kitchen.

Ingredients:

• For the Shrimp:
• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• For the Honey Garlic Sauce:
• 1/4 cup honey
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium is best!)
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (or more, if you like it spicy!)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons water
• For the Bowls:
• Cooked rice (I prefer jasmine or brown rice)
• Your favorite veggies (broccoli florets, bell peppers, shredded carrots, edamame, spinach, cucumbers – get creative!)
• Optional garnishes: sesame seeds, chopped green onions, sriracha mayo

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. This is crucial! Excess moisture will prevent them from browning properly.
2. Season the Shrimp: In a bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Make sure each shrimp is coated lightly and evenly.
3. Cook the Shrimp: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them, or they’ll become rubbery. We’re aiming for juicy and tender!
4. Make the Honey Garlic Sauce: While the shrimp is cooking, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, minced garlic, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes in a small bowl. The aroma at this stage is already intoxicating!
5. Prepare the Cornstarch Slurry: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water until smooth. This is what will thicken our sauce to that irresistible, glossy consistency.
6. Add the Sauce to the Skillet: Once the shrimp is cooked, remove them from the skillet and set aside. Add the honey garlic sauce to the skillet and bring to a simmer.
7. Thicken the Sauce: Pour in the cornstarch slurry and whisk constantly until the sauce thickens, about 1-2 minutes. It should be glossy and coat the back of a spoon.
8. Combine Shrimp and Sauce: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat them evenly in the honey garlic sauce. Make sure every single shrimp is glistening!
9. Assemble the Bowls: Divide the cooked rice among bowls. Top with the honey garlic shrimp and your favorite veggies.
10. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with sesame seeds, chopped green onions, and a drizzle of sriracha mayo (if desired). Serve immediately and enjoy every single bite!

Success Tips for Honey Garlic Shrimp Bowl Perfection

Okay, my friend, I want to ensure your Honey Garlic Shrimp Bowls turn out absolutely perfect. Here are a few “golden” tips that will guarantee deliciousness every time:

• Don’t Overcook the Shrimp! This is the most important tip. Overcooked shrimp are rubbery and unpleasant. Cook them just until they turn pink and opaque. They should be firm but still have a slight bounce.
• Adjust the Sweetness and Spice: Taste the honey garlic sauce before adding the shrimp and adjust the honey and red pepper flakes to your liking. Some people prefer a sweeter sauce, while others crave more heat.
• Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic makes a world of difference in the flavor of the sauce. Avoid using garlic powder, if possible.
• Pat the Shrimp Dry: This step is essential for achieving a good sear on the shrimp. Excess moisture will steam the shrimp instead of browning them.
• Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to use any veggies you like in these bowls. Broccoli, bell peppers, carrots, edamame, spinach, and cucumbers are all great options. You can even roast the veggies for extra flavor!

Variations and Customization Ideas

One of the best things about these Honey Garlic Shrimp Bowls is how versatile they are! You can easily adapt them to suit your dietary needs and preferences. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Low-Carb Option: Replace the rice with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a low-carb version.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use tamari instead of soy sauce to make the recipe gluten-free.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the honey garlic sauce for extra heat.
• Add Some Greens: Toss in some fresh spinach or kale to the skillet with the shrimp and sauce for added nutrients.
• Make it a Salad: Serve the honey garlic shrimp and veggies over a bed of mixed greens for a refreshing salad.
• Use Different Proteins: While this recipe is all about the shrimp, you can easily substitute chicken, tofu, or even steak! Just adjust the cooking time accordingly. For instance, if you’re looking for a chicken alternative, try our HONEY GARLIC CHICKEN PERFECTION recipe – it uses a very similar sauce!

Serving Suggestions and Side Dishes

These Honey Garlic Shrimp Bowls are a complete meal on their own, but if you’re looking to add a little something extra, here are a few serving suggestions and side dishes:

• Edamame: Steamed or pan-fried edamame is a perfect complement to the bowls.
• Spring Rolls: Fresh spring rolls with peanut sauce are a light and refreshing appetizer.
• Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup is a comforting and flavorful addition to the meal.
• Seaweed Salad: A seaweed salad adds a briny and refreshing element to the plate.
• Kimchi: If you like a little spice, kimchi is a great side dish to balance the sweetness of the honey garlic sauce.
• For another bowl idea, try our Chicken & Rice Bowls – the creamy garlic sauce is phenomenal!

Make-Ahead and Storage Instructions

These Honey Garlic Shrimp Bowls are perfect for meal prepping! You can easily make the components ahead of time and assemble the bowls when you’re ready to eat.

• Shrimp: Cooked shrimp can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.
• Honey Garlic Sauce: The honey garlic sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.
• Rice: Cooked rice can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave with a splash of water to prevent it from drying out.
• Veggies: Chop and prepare your veggies ahead of time and store them in separate containers in the refrigerator.
• Assembly: To assemble the bowls, simply reheat the shrimp, sauce, and rice, and then top with your favorite veggies.
• If you’re looking for another quick shrimp recipe, check out our LEMON GARLIC SHRIMP ZOODLES! It’s another fantastic weeknight option.

The Secret to Perfectly Cooked Shrimp

Let’s talk about shrimp. It’s a delicate protein that can go from perfectly cooked to rubbery in a matter of seconds. Here are a few tips to ensure your shrimp is always tender and juicy:

• Buy High-Quality Shrimp: Look for shrimp that are firm, translucent, and have a fresh, sea-like smell. Avoid shrimp that are mushy, discolored, or have a strong, fishy odor.
• Thaw Shrimp Properly: If using frozen shrimp, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or in a bowl of cold water for about 30 minutes. Never thaw shrimp at room temperature.
• Pat Shrimp Dry: As mentioned earlier, patting the shrimp dry with paper towels is crucial for achieving a good sear.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook the shrimp in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Overcrowding will lower the temperature of the pan and steam the shrimp instead of searing them.
• Use the Right Heat: Cook the shrimp over medium-high heat. This will allow them to cook quickly and evenly without drying out.
• Watch for Visual Cues: The shrimp are done when they turn pink and opaque and curl into a “C” shape. If they curl into an “O” shape, they’re overcooked.

Spice Up Your Life: Variations on the Honey Garlic Sauce

While the classic honey garlic sauce is delicious on its own, there are endless ways to customize it to your liking. Here are a few ideas to get your creative juices flowing:

• Add Ginger: Grate a small amount of fresh ginger into the sauce for a warm, spicy flavor.
• Add Pineapple Juice: Replace some of the water with pineapple juice for a tropical twist.
• Add Sriracha: Add a squirt of sriracha for extra heat and a touch of tang.
• Add Brown Sugar: Replace some of the honey with brown sugar for a deeper, molasses-like flavor.
• Add Lemon Juice: Add a squeeze of lemon juice for a bright, citrusy flavor.
• For another garlic-lover’s dream, try our Garlic Butter Chicken Bites & Creamy Pasta!
• If you’re looking for a set-it-and-forget-it option, check out our Honey Garlic Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs. The slow cooker infuses the chicken with incredible flavor.

Beyond Shrimp: Using the Honey Garlic Sauce with Other Dishes

The beauty of this honey garlic sauce is that it’s incredibly versatile. You can use it on so much more than just shrimp! Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Chicken: Brush the sauce over grilled or baked chicken for a sticky, sweet, and savory glaze.
• Salmon: Glaze salmon with the sauce during the last few minutes of cooking for a delicious and healthy meal.
• Tofu: Toss cubed tofu with the sauce and bake or pan-fry until crispy.
• Vegetables: Toss roasted vegetables like broccoli, carrots, and Brussels sprouts with the sauce for a flavorful side dish.
• Noodles: Toss cooked noodles with the sauce for a quick and easy meal.
• If you are looking for a great summer meal, our Savory Garlic Butter Chicken with Zucchini & Corn might be a perfect fit!

Final Thoughts

So there you have it – my ultimate guide to Honey Garlic Shrimp Bowl perfection! I hope you’re feeling inspired to whip up a batch of these delicious bowls for yourself. Remember, the key to success is to not overcook the shrimp, adjust the sweetness and spice to your liking, and customize the veggies to your heart’s content. These bowls are a fantastic way to enjoy a healthy, flavorful, and satisfying meal that’s ready in minutes. I’m so excited for you to try them and make them your own. Happy cooking, my friend!

Honey Garlic Shrimp Bowls

Amelia Chen-Morrison

These Honey Garlic Shrimp Bowls are a quick and easy meal packed with flavor. Plump, juicy shrimp are coated in a sweet and savory honey garlic sauce and served over rice with your favorite veggies for a customizable and satisfying dish.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine Asian-inspired

Servings 2

Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

• Large skillet
• Small bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Paper towels
• Serving bowls

Ingredients

  

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ cup honey
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce low sodium
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons water
• 2 cups cooked rice jasmine or brown
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• ½ cup sliced bell peppers
• ¼ cup shredded carrots
• ¼ cup edamame
• 2 cups spinach
• ¼ cup chopped cucumbers
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
• 1 tablespoon chopped green onions
• 2 tablespoons sriracha mayo

Instructions

 

• Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels.
• In a bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
• Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Add the seasoned shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and opaque. Remove from skillet and set aside.
• In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, minced garlic, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes.
• In a separate small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water until smooth.
• Add the honey garlic sauce to the skillet and bring to a simmer.
• Pour in the cornstarch slurry and whisk constantly until the sauce thickens, about 1-2 minutes.
• Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat them evenly in the honey garlic sauce.
• Divide the cooked rice among bowls.
• Top with the honey garlic shrimp and your favorite veggies.
• Garnish with sesame seeds, chopped green onions, and a drizzle of sriracha mayo (if desired).
• Serve immediately.

Notes

Don’t overcook the shrimp! Cook them just until they turn pink and opaque. Adjust the sweetness and spice to your liking by tasting the sauce before adding the shrimp and adjusting the honey and red pepper flakes. For best flavor, use fresh garlic. Store cooked shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The honey garlic sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop. Cooked rice can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave with a splash of water to prevent it from drying out.