Sweet and Spicy Skillet Shrimp: Your Ultimate Quick & Easy Weeknight Dinner Recipe
Looking for a dish that delivers incredible flavor without taking all night to prepare? This mouthwatering Sweet and Spicy Skillet Shrimp is your new go-to! It’s a remarkably quick and easy recipe that promises perfectly cooked shrimp infused with a unique blend of sweet, spicy, and tangy notes. Ideal for a busy weeknight dinner or a special occasion that needs a speedy main course, this dish is guaranteed to impress.
Beyond its simplicity, what truly sets this recipe apart is its vibrant flavor profile. The bold marinade transforms plain shrimp into an extraordinary seafood experience in mere minutes, making it fantastic for those evenings when you need a delicious meal in a snap. Get ready for your whole family to fall in love with this unforgettable, flavor-bursting seafood sensation!
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𩵠About This Sweet and Spicy Skillet Shrimp Recipe
This super easy sriracha shrimp dish is truly the perfect seafood dinner for any occasion, whether it’s a bustling weeknight meal or a relaxed Sunday dinner. Each succulent piece of shrimp is pan-seared to perfection, ensuring a tender interior and a slightly crispy exterior. What sets this recipe apart is its incredible marinade, packing the shrimp with a bold, zesty, and uniquely sweet-spicy flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Crafted with just fresh shrimp and a handful of other pantry staples â precisely five additional ingredients â this dish proves that simplicity can lead to extraordinary taste. The unique blend of sweet and spicy creates a harmonious balance, making it incredibly versatile. Itâs fantastic served over fluffy rice or al dente pasta for a complete meal, or it can even stand alone as a delightful and impressive appetizer for your next gathering. It’s a lean protein powerhouse thatâs both satisfying and light, making it a healthy choice youâll feel good about.
If you’re a true shrimp enthusiast, you absolutely must explore more of our favorite recipes! For a lively taco night, try our Chipotle Shrimp Tacos, which bring a smoky, spicy kick to your plate. Or, for an even easier one-pot wonder, our One Skillet Shrimp with Couscous offers a Mediterranean-inspired twist. For those who love grilled flavors, this Grilled Shrimp Piccata recipe offers a bright and zesty alternative. And for a truly indulgent experience, you can’t go wrong with this incredibly buttery and flavorful New Orleans BBQ Shrimp, famous for its rich, savory sauce.
Beyond shrimp, if you appreciate elegant seafood appetizers, don’t miss this classic recipe for Oysters Rockefeller. Serving these rich, flavorful oysters on the half shell will undoubtedly impress your guests and elevate any meal.
đ§ Gather Your Ingredients for Sriracha Shrimp
Creating this irresistible sweet and spicy skillet shrimp requires just a few key ingredients, each playing a crucial role in building that incredible flavor. Hereâs what youâll need to gather:
- Sriracha sauce: This iconic chili sauce is the star, bringing a fantastic spicy kick and a subtle tang that perfectly complements the natural sweetness of the shrimp. It’s what gives our shrimp its signature “sriracha shrimp” identity.
- Olive oil: Essential for both the marinade and for pan-searing. It helps the marinade adhere beautifully to the shrimp and provides a rich base for cooking, ensuring a golden-brown sear.
- Maple syrup: The perfect counterpoint to the sriracha’s heat. Pure maple syrup adds a natural, rich sweetness that balances all the savory and spicy elements, creating that delightful “sweet and spicy” profile.
- Lemon juice: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice is non-negotiable for seafood. It brightens all the flavors, adds a necessary zing, and cuts through the richness, making the dish incredibly fresh and vibrant.
- Garlic salt: A convenient and powerful seasoning that adds a deep, savory garlic flavor along with the perfect amount of salt. This saves you from mincing garlic and measuring salt separately, making prep even faster. Feel free to add other favorite seasonings too!
- Shrimp: The main event! I highly recommend buying peeled and de-veined shrimp for super easy prep, which drastically cuts down on your cooking time. However, any raw shrimp (fresh or thawed frozen) will work wonderfully; just make sure to prepare them correctly.
Using high-quality ingredients, especially fresh shrimp, will elevate the final taste of your skillet shrimp. Choose plump, firm shrimp for the best results!
đŞ Let’s Make Skillet Shrimp! Step-by-Step Guide
Ready to create this incredibly flavorful sweet and spicy skillet shrimp? Follow these simple steps, and youâll have a restaurant-quality meal on your table in no time!
(Or click here to jump right to the recipe card for full details!)
Step 1: Make the Flavorful Marinade
In a small bowl, combine all of your marinade ingredients: Sriracha sauce, olive oil, maple syrup, lemon juice, and garlic salt. Whisk them together thoroughly until you have a well-combined, aromatic mixture. This powerful blend is what will infuse your shrimp with that signature sweet and spicy flavor!
Step 2: Marinate the Shrimp for Maximum Flavor
Transfer your cleaned and deveined shrimp to a larger bowl. Pour the freshly made marinade over the shrimp. Using tongs or your hands, gently toss the shrimp to ensure every single piece is thoroughly coated in the delicious mixture. Cover the bowl and let it sit in the refrigerator for at least an hour. This marinating time is crucial for the shrimp to absorb all the incredible sweet and spicy flavors, resulting in a truly flavorful skillet shrimp.
Step 3: Perfectly Cook the Shrimp in a Hot Skillet
Once your shrimp is marinated, heat a little bit of additional olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Ensure the oil is shimmering and hot before adding the shrimp. Carefully place the marinated shrimp in a single, even layer in the skillet. This is vital for achieving a good sear and even cooking. Avoid overcrowding the pan; if necessary, cook the shrimp in batches to prevent steaming instead of searing.
Step 4: Flip, Finish, and Serve
Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side. You’ll know they’re ready when they turn pink and opaque, curling into a “C” shape. Be careful not to overcook them, as shrimp can become rubbery quickly. Once perfectly cooked, remove from heat and serve immediately. Enjoy your incredibly delicious sweet and spicy skillet shrimp as a main course or a tantalizing appetizer!
Pro Tip for Success: For even cooking and that desirable sear, always ensure your shrimp cooks in a single layer in the skillet! If your skillet isn’t large enough, it’s always better to cook your sriracha shrimp in two or more batches to prevent overcrowding and ensure each piece cooks perfectly.
â Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Skillet Shrimp
Here are some common questions about making sweet and spicy skillet shrimp, along with helpful answers to guide you:
Sriracha is a popular hot sauce originating from Thai cuisine, known for its distinctive balance of spicy, tangy, and subtly sweet flavors. It’s typically made from chili peppers, distilled vinegar, garlic, sugar, and salt. Its versatility allows it to enhance a wide variety of dishes, from proteins like shrimp and chicken to noodles, soups, and even dipping sauces, making it a beloved condiment worldwide.
For this sweet and spicy skillet shrimp recipe, I personally prefer cooking shrimp in olive oil. Olive oil provides a beautiful sear and is a lighter option, letting the marinade flavors shine. It also has a higher smoke point than butter, which is beneficial for medium-high heat cooking. However, in some dishes, adding a pat of butter at the very end of cooking can create a richer, more luxurious sauce and add a lovely nutty flavor, so it really depends on the desired outcome.
While it is generally possible to pan-sear shrimp directly from frozen by adding a few minutes to the cooking time, for this recipe, I highly recommend allowing the shrimp to thaw first. The marinating step, which ideally lasts for at least an hour in the fridge, is crucial for the shrimp to fully absorb the incredible sweet and spicy flavors of the marinade. If the shrimp is frozen, it won’t be able to properly soak up all those delicious seasonings, resulting in a less flavorful dish. Thawing ensures maximum flavor absorption and even cooking.
Shrimp cooks very quickly! You’ll know it’s done when it turns from a translucent gray to an opaque pink color and curls into a gentle “C” shape. If it curls into a tight “O” shape, it’s likely overcooked and will be rubbery. Cooking for 2-3 minutes per side in a hot skillet is usually sufficient.
Absolutely! Sriracha can be quite potent for some. If you prefer a milder flavor, start with 1 tablespoon of sriracha and taste the marinade before adding more. For extra heat, feel free to increase the sriracha to 3 tablespoons or even add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade. Customize it to your preference!
If you love flavorful shrimp with a kick, you’ll also want to try this crispy buffalo shrimp recipe! It’s simple to make and is sure to impress your family with its bold, zesty taste.
Don’t have time to make this incredible skillet shrimp recipe right now? No worries! Click on or tap the heart icon on the BOTTOM RIGHT of your screen to save it for later. You won’t want to forget this one!
đĄ Expert Tips and Tricks for Perfect Skillet Shrimp
Achieving perfectly cooked, intensely flavored skillet shrimp is easy with these expert tips:
- Choose Your Shrimp Wisely: You can use either tail-off or tail-on shrimp depending on your preference. Tail-on shrimp offer a nice presentation, especially if serving as an appetizer, while tail-off is easier to eat. Either way, I highly recommend purchasing shrimp that are already peeled and de-veined. This seemingly small choice will save you significant prep time and mess, making your cooking experience much smoother.
- Marination Matters: While I recommend a full hour of marinating time for maximum flavor absorption, this recipe is flexible for busy schedules. If you’re truly in a rush, you can get away with as few as 15-20 minutes of marination. Even a short soak will impart some delicious flavor! However, remember that longer marination equals deeper flavor.
- Prep Ahead: To streamline your dinner preparation, mix up the sweet and spicy marinade the night before. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge, and it will be ready to go when you are. When you’re ready to cook, simply add the shrimp to the pre-made marinade for the recommended time.
- Master the Skillet: For truly even cooking and a beautiful sear on your shrimp, use a large skillet that allows the shrimp to lie in a single layer without overcrowding. Ensure the olive oil is nice and hot (shimmering, but not smoking) before you add the shrimp. A hot pan is key to getting that desirable golden-brown crust rather than steamed, watery shrimp. If your skillet isn’t big enough, cook in batches!
- Don’t Overcook: Shrimp cooks very quickly! Keep a close eye on it. As soon as the shrimp turn pink and opaque and curl into a “C” shape, they are done. Overcooked shrimp become tough and rubbery, so remove them from the heat promptly.
- Garnish for Freshness: A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or cilantro not only adds a pop of color but also a fresh, herbaceous note that brightens the entire dish and makes it visually appealing.
Packed with vibrant flavor, this recipe is a brilliant way to transform simple raw shrimp into a bold, zesty, and utterly delicious meal!
đ Substitutions and Variations for Your Skillet Shrimp
This sweet and spicy skillet shrimp recipe is wonderfully adaptable! Feel free to customize it based on your preferences or what you have on hand:
- Hot Sauce Alternatives: If sriracha isn’t your favorite or you’re looking for a different flavor profile, you can easily substitute it with another kind of hot sauce. Try chipotle sauce for a smoky heat, sweet Thai chili sauce for a milder, sweeter kick, or even something like Frank’s RedHot for a classic tangy spice. Adjust the amount to your desired heat level.
- Add Veggies for a Complete Meal: Boost the nutrition and volume of your dish by adding some quick-cooking vegetables to the skillet. Snap peas, sliced bell peppers (any color!), broccoli florets, or even asparagus spears work wonderfully. Add them to the skillet a few minutes before the shrimp, or cook them separately and toss them in at the end.
- Boost the Seasonings: While garlic salt provides great flavor, don’t hesitate to add other seasonings for additional depth. Freshly chopped parsley or cilantro (for garnish or mixed in), a pinch of ground cumin for earthy notes, or smoked paprika for a hint of smoky sweetness would all be excellent additions to the marinade.
- Sweetener Swaps: If you don’t have maple syrup, or prefer a different type of sweetness, honey or agave nectar are fantastic substitutes. Brown sugar or a touch of dark corn syrup could also work in a pinch, though they might alter the texture slightly.
- Make it a Skewer: For a fun grilling alternative or party appetizer, thread the marinated shrimp onto skewers before cooking. You can grill them or broil them in the oven until perfectly cooked.
- Citrus Burst: For an extra layer of brightness, zest half a lime or orange into the marinade along with the lemon juice.
𼥠Storage and Reheating Tips for Skillet Shrimp
Proper storage and reheating ensure your delicious sweet and spicy skillet shrimp stays tasty for future meals:
Keep any leftover skillet shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for 2 to 3 days. It’s important to consume seafood promptly for the best quality and safety.
To reheat, the best method is to add a little bit of olive oil or butter to a skillet and gently warm the shrimp over medium heat for just a few minutes, tossing frequently, until heated through. This helps prevent them from becoming rubbery. You can also microwave them if you need them reheated more quickly, but be mindful of heating in short bursts to avoid overcooking.
These pan-seared shrimp also freeze fairly well. To freeze, spread cooked and cooled shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or airtight container for up to 2-3 months. Just be sure to thaw them completely in the fridge overnight before reheating for the best texture and flavor.
đ´ What To Serve With This Dish
The versatility of this sweet and spicy skillet shrimp means it pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, making it easy to create a complete and satisfying meal:
- Grain Bowls: Serve this flavorful skillet shrimp over a bed of fluffy Lemon Dill Rice for a bright and herbaceous accompaniment, or pair it with zesty Cilantro Lime Brown Rice for a refreshing and aromatic combination. Quinoa is also an excellent choice; try our easy Slow Cooker Quinoa or speedy Instant Pot Quinoa for a protein-packed base.
- Simple Veggie Sides: Complement the shrimp with a quick and healthy vegetable dish. Our Easy Air Fryer Broccoli offers a perfectly crisp and tender option, or add a burst of flavor with this vibrant Chipotle Lime Edamame. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette also makes a fantastic, refreshing side.
- Pasta Perfection: Toss the cooked shrimp with your favorite pasta, a drizzle of olive oil, and some fresh herbs for a quick and satisfying pasta dish. The marinade creates a light sauce that coats the noodles beautifully.
- Tacos or Wraps: Turn this skillet shrimp into delicious tacos or lettuce wraps! Serve it in warm tortillas or large lettuce cups with some shredded cabbage, avocado slices, and a squeeze of fresh lime juice for a fun, interactive meal.
- Crusty Bread: Don’t let any of that delicious marinade go to waste! Serve with some crusty bread to soak up all the sweet and spicy juices left in the skillet.
đ More Easy Shrimp Recipes You’ll Love
If this sweet and spicy skillet shrimp has ignited your love for quick and flavorful seafood, you’ll definitely want to explore these other fantastic shrimp recipes:
- Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos: If you enjoyed the bold flavors of this sriracha shrimp, you’ll be obsessed with these incredibly tasty Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos! They feature crispy shrimp coated in a creamy, spicy-sweet sauce, served in tortillas for a fun and irresistible meal.
- White Wine Shrimp Pasta: An elegant yet surprisingly quick 30-minute seafood dish, this pasta features succulent shrimp and healthy arugula tossed in a light white wine sauce. Perfect for a refined weeknight dinner.
- Zingy Shrimp Grilled Cheese: Take the classic comfort food sandwich to a whole new level by adding flavorful shrimp! This fun twist is a creative way to enjoy seafood and a unique take on grilled cheese.
- 15+ Easy Shrimp Dinners: Need even more inspiration? Dive into our comprehensive collection of over 15 simple and delicious shrimp dinner ideas, perfect for any occasion and skill level.
- Shrimp and 4 Cheese Lasagna: This delightful recipe from 12 Tomatoes offers a comforting and indulgent take on traditional lasagna, featuring succulent shrimp layered with four melty cheeses for a truly memorable dish.
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đ Recipe Card
Sweet and Spicy Skillet Shrimp
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Ingredients
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- 2 tablespoons Sriracha sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 ½ tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 1 ½ tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic salt
- 2 pounds fresh shrimp (cleaned and deveined)
Instructions
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In a small bowl, combine all the ingredients except the shrimp and mix well to create the marinade.2 tablespoons Sriracha sauce, 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 ½ tablespoons pure maple syrup, 1 ½ tablespoons lemon juice, 1 teaspoon garlic salt
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Place the shrimp in a large bowl, then add the marinade and toss to coat thoroughly.2 pounds fresh shrimp
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Cover the bowl, refrigerate, and let marinate for at least an hour for optimal flavor. (See tips for shorter marination if in a rush.)
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Heat a little bit of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add the shrimp in a single layer, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Cook in batches if necessary.
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Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side, until they turn pink and opaque and curl into a “C” shape. Be careful not to overcook.
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Serve immediately over rice or quinoa if desired. For a beautiful presentation and a fresh touch, garnish with freshly cracked black pepper, a sprinkle of smoked paprika, and/or chopped fresh parsley. Enjoy!
Notes
- Shrimp Prep: Buy pre-peeled and deveined shrimp to save valuable time on preparation. I like to use tail-off for ease of eating, but tail-on can be used for presentation.
- Quick Marination: If you’re short on time, let the shrimp marinate for a minimum of 15 minutes instead of the recommended hour. It will still absorb some wonderful flavor!
- Marinade Ahead: You can mix the marinade the night before and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, ready to coat your shrimp quickly when you need it.
- Even Cooking is Key: Use a large skillet and ensure it’s hot before adding shrimp. Cook shrimp in a single layer to ensure they sear beautifully rather than steam. If necessary, cook in multiple batches.
- Spice Level: Adjust the Sriracha amount to your taste. Use less for a milder dish, or more for extra heat.
- Hot Sauce Variations: You can substitute different hot sauces like Frank’s RedHot, chipotle sauce, or a sweet Thai chili sauce for a different flavor profile.
- Add Veggies: Incorporate some nutrition by adding bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli to the skillet during the last few minutes of cooking, or serve them as a separate side.
- Flavor Boosters: For extra depth, add fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley, or spices such as smoked paprika or a pinch of ground cumin to the marinade.
- Sweetener Swaps: Swap maple syrup with honey or agave nectar if preferred.
Additional Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the shrimp over cooked rice, quinoa, or couscous to soak up the flavorful sauce. Itâs also delicious tossed with rice noodles or pasta.
- Use the shrimp as a vibrant filling for tacos, adding creamy avocado, crunchy coleslaw, and a fresh squeeze of lime.
- For a light and refreshing meal, serve the skillet shrimp over a bed of crisp mixed greens with a simple lemon vinaigrette.
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Nutrition
Nutritional information is an estimate. The nutritional values for your final dish may vary based on measuring differences and products used.
Update Notes: This post was originally published in August 2014, and was comprehensively updated with fresh tips, detailed step-by-step photos, and a refined recipe in August 2024 to bring you the best possible cooking experience.
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Happy cooking, and enjoy your amazing sweet and spicy skillet shrimp!
