Honey Garlic Shrimp with Rice

Quick, flavorful, and satisfying—this honey garlic shrimp with rice is the perfect 20-minute weeknight dinner! Sweet, savory, and garlicky sauce coats tender shrimp, served over warm rice. Ideal for busy nights or special gatherings, this dish brings delightful Asian-inspired flavors right to your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This dish comes together in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for a last-minute dinner.
• Flavorful Sauce: The sweet and savory honey garlic sauce elevates the shrimp, creating a deliciously balanced meal.
• Versatile Ingredients: Substitute shrimp with chicken or turkey for a different twist while keeping the flavors intact.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein and served over rice, it’s a filling yet healthy choice for any meal.
• Great for Meal Prep: This recipe is easy to scale up for leftovers or meal prep throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and efficient, gather these essential tools before you begin.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Non-stick skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Non-stick skillet: Ensures the shrimp cook evenly without sticking, allowing for easy flipping.
• Mixing bowl: Perfect for combining ingredients without mess, making preparation quick and easy.
• Whisk: Helps to blend sauces thoroughly, ensuring every ingredient is incorporated perfectly.

Ingredients

For the Shrimp:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled & deveined
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch

For the Sauce:

• 1/4 cup honey
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated (optional)
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (or lemon juice)
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

For Serving:

• 3 cups cooked white or jasmine rice
• 2 green onions, chopped
• Sesame seeds, for garnish

How to Make Honey Garlic Shrimp with Rice

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

1. In a mixing bowl, toss the shrimp, soy sauce, olive oil, and cornstarch. Set aside to marinate briefly.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

1. In another bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger, rice vinegar, and optional red pepper flakes.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

1. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the marinated shrimp to the skillet.
3. Cook shrimp for about 1–2 minutes per side until they are pink and just cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 4: Simmer the Sauce

1. Pour the prepared sauce into the same skillet.
2. Allow it to simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

1. Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet.
2. Toss to coat evenly in the sauce.
3. Serve shrimp over warm rice, garnished with chopped green onions and sesame seeds.

Enjoy your delicious Honey Garlic Shrimp with Rice!

How to Serve Honey Garlic Shrimp with Rice

Serving honey garlic shrimp with rice is a delightful experience that can be enhanced with various garnishes and accompaniments. Here are some creative ways to serve this dish for an appealing presentation.

Garnish Ideas

• Chopped Green Onions – Sprinkle fresh green onions on top for a pop of color and added flavor.
• Sesame Seeds – A light dusting of sesame seeds adds a nutty crunch and visual appeal.

Accompaniments

• Steamed Broccoli – Add a side of steamed broccoli for a nutritious boost and vibrant color.
• Sliced Avocado – Creamy avocado slices provide a rich texture that balances the sweetness of the shrimp.
• Cucumber Salad – Serve a refreshing cucumber salad to cleanse the palate between bites.

How to Perfect Honey Garlic Shrimp with Rice

Achieving the perfect honey garlic shrimp with rice involves attention to detail and technique. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh shrimp, garlic, and ginger make a significant difference in flavor.
• Do Not Overcook Shrimp – Cook shrimp just until they turn pink; overcooked shrimp can become tough.
• Adjust Sweetness – Feel free to modify the amount of honey based on your taste preference for sweetness.
• Experiment with Heat – If you enjoy spice, increase the red pepper flakes for more heat or omit them for a milder flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Honey Garlic Shrimp with Rice

Pairing side dishes with honey garlic shrimp can enhance your meal’s overall appeal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Garlic Green Beans – Sauté green beans in garlic and olive oil for a flavorful, crunchy side.
2. Roasted Bell Peppers – Colorful roasted bell peppers add sweetness and texture; simply toss them in olive oil before roasting.
3. Asian Slaw – A crunchy slaw made from cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing offers a refreshing contrast.
4. Fried Rice – Prepare simple fried rice as an alternative base, incorporating vegetables for added nutrition.
5. Miso Soup – A warm bowl of miso soup makes for a comforting complement to the shrimp dish.
6. Coconut Cauliflower Rice – Substitute regular rice with coconut cauliflower rice for a low-carb option with tropical flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can ensure your honey garlic shrimp with rice turns out perfectly delicious.

• Wrong Shrimp Size: Using small shrimp can lead to overcooking. Opt for large shrimp for better texture and flavor.
• Skipping the Marinade: Not marinating the shrimp in soy sauce can make them bland. Always allow them to soak for at least 10 minutes.
• Overcooking the Shrimp: Cooking shrimp too long makes them tough. Aim for just 1–2 minutes per side until they turn pink.
• Neglecting Sauce Thickness: Failing to let the sauce simmer can leave it watery. Simmer until it thickens slightly for a better coating.
• Using Cold Rice: Serving cold rice can affect the overall taste. Always use warm, fluffy rice for serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They can be kept for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Honey Garlic Shrimp with Rice

• Place cooled leftovers in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Honey Garlic Shrimp with Rice

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish for about 15 minutes.
• Microwave: Warm in short intervals, stirring between, until heated through.
• Stovetop: Heat on medium-low, stirring often, until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making honey garlic shrimp with rice.

How do I make honey garlic sauce thicker?

You can add a little cornstarch mixed with water to the sauce while it’s simmering. This will help achieve a thicker consistency.

Can I use a different protein instead of shrimp?

Certainly! You can substitute shrimp with chicken or tofu if you prefer a different protein option.

What type of rice is best for this recipe?

Jasmine or white rice works best due to their fluffy texture, but feel free to use brown rice for a healthier alternative.

How do I customize honey garlic shrimp with rice?

You can add vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for extra nutrition and flavor. Experiment with spices to suit your taste!

Final Thoughts

This honey garlic shrimp with rice dish is quick, flavorful, and easy to customize. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests. Try adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the spice level to make it your own!