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Sweet Chili Shrimp - Fast, Flavorful, and Perfect for Weeknights

Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients
  

  • Shrimp: 1 to 1.25 pounds large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails optional)
  • Sweet chili sauce: 1/2 cup (Thai-style, not hot chili paste)
  • Soy sauce: 1 tablespoon (low-sodium preferred)
  • Rice vinegar or lime juice: 1 to 1.5 tablespoons
  • Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
  • Fresh ginger: 1 teaspoon, grated (optional but recommended)
  • Honey or brown sugar: 1 to 2 teaspoons (optional, for extra gloss and sweetness)
  • Crushed red pepper flakes or sriracha: to taste (optional for extra heat)
  • Cornstarch: 1 tablespoon (plus 1 teaspoon for slurry, if desired)
  • Neutral oil: 1 to 2 tablespoons (canola, avocado, or grapeseed)
  • Green onions: 2 to 3, thinly sliced
  • Sesame seeds: 1 teaspoon (optional, for garnish)
  • Fresh cilantro: a handful, chopped (optional)
  • Rice or noodles: for serving
  • Vegetables (optional): bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli florets

Method
 

  1. Prep the shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. Toss with 1 tablespoon cornstarch and a pinch of salt and pepper until lightly coated. This helps them sear and stay tender.
  2. Make the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, and rice vinegar or lime juice. Add garlic, ginger, and honey or brown sugar if using. Stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a squeeze of sriracha if you like it spicy.
  3. Prep add-ins: Slice green onions and any vegetables you plan to use. Keep everything near the stove so you can move quickly.
  4. Heat the pan: Set a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon oil and swirl to coat.
  5. Sear the shrimp: Arrange shrimp in a single layer. Cook about 1 to 2 minutes on the first side until lightly golden and just opaque at the edges. Flip and cook 1 more minute. Remove to a plate. Do not overcook.
  6. Cook the vegetables (optional): Add a little more oil if needed. Stir-fry bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli for 2 to 3 minutes until crisp-tender with a bit of color.
  7. Combine and glaze: Return the shrimp to the pan. Pour in the sauce and toss to coat. Let it bubble for 30 to 60 seconds until glossy. If you want a thicker sauce, stir 1 teaspoon cornstarch with 1 tablespoon water and add to the pan, tossing until it clings.
  8. Finish and garnish: Turn off the heat. Toss in green onions and sprinkle with sesame seeds and cilantro. Taste and adjust with a squeeze more lime or a splash of soy if needed.
  9. Serve: Spoon over steamed rice, coconut rice, or noodles. Add lime wedges on the side for brightness.