Crispy Honey-Glazed Shrimp Recipe
Get ready for a flavor-packed treat that balances crunch, sweetness, and a hint of heat—meet the irresistible Crispy Honey-Glazed Shrimp. This Asian-inspired main course brings together tender shrimp encased in a golden, shatteringly crisp crust, all tossed in a glossy honey glaze that dances between savory, sweet, and spicy. It’s the kind of dish that tastes restaurant-worthy but is wonderfully simple to make at home, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or whenever you want to wow your taste buds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t let the short ingredient list fool you—every item here brings something special to the table. From the panko breadcrumbs for crunch, to the honey in the glaze, each ingredient is essential for achieving the signature taste and texture of Crispy Honey-Glazed Shrimp.
- Shrimp (1 pound, large, peeled and deveined): Opt for fresh, large shrimp for maximum juiciness and a satisfying bite.
- Cornstarch (1/2 cup): This creates a light, airy layer that forms the perfect base for a shatteringly crisp coating.
- Eggs (2 large, beaten): Acts as the “glue” that helps the panko breadcrumbs stick to the shrimp.
- Panko breadcrumbs (1/2 cup): Japanese-style breadcrumbs make all the difference for an unbeatable crunch.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Intensifies the shrimp’s natural flavors and balances out the sweetness.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds just a touch of warmth and depth.
- Vegetable oil (for frying): Choose a neutral oil with a high smoke point for the crispiest results.
- Honey (1/4 cup): The star of the glaze—pure sweetness with floral undertones.
- Soy sauce (2 tablespoons): Brings a balancing saltiness and umami depth.
- Rice vinegar (1 tablespoon): Lifts the flavors and keeps the glaze from becoming too sweet.
- Sriracha (1 tablespoon, optional): For those who love a little fire; it’s customizable based on your desired heat level.
- Sesame oil (1 teaspoon): Adds a nutty, toasty aroma that rounds out the glaze beautifully.
- Cornstarch slurry (1 teaspoon cornstarch + 1 tablespoon water): Thickens the glaze so it clings luxuriously to each shrimp.
How to Make Crispy Honey-Glazed Shrimp
Step 1: Prep and Season the Shrimp
Start by patting your shrimp dry with paper towels—this is crucial for getting that irresistibly crisp coating later. Generously season them with salt and pepper so every bite bursts with flavor, setting the stage for a truly delicious base.
Step 2: Set Up Your Breading Station
Arrange three shallow bowls: one with cornstarch, one with beaten eggs, and the last with a layer of panko breadcrumbs. Keeping everything organized makes the breading process quick and mess-free, giving your shrimp an even, thorough coating.
Step 3: Bread the Shrimp
Working with one shrimp at a time, coat them first with cornstarch, then dip into the egg, and finish with a generous rolling in panko. This triple layering ensures each piece turns out shatteringly crisp on the outside yet tender and succulent inside—absolutely essential for Crispy Honey-Glazed Shrimp!
Step 4: Fry Until Golden and Crunchy
Heat about half an inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Once shimmering, fry the shrimp in batches (don’t overcrowd the pan!) for 2 to 3 minutes per side. You’re looking for a deep golden color and a satisfying sizzle when they hit the oil. Let them drain on paper towels while you finish the rest.
Step 5: Prepare the Honey Glaze
In a small saucepan, combine honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sriracha (if using), and sesame oil. Warm everything over medium heat, then stir in the cornstarch slurry. Keep mixing until the glaze is thick, glossy, and coats the back of a spoon—about a minute or two is all it takes.
Step 6: Toss and Serve
Add your crispy fried shrimp directly to the saucepan or a large mixing bowl and quickly toss until each piece is dressed in that luscious, sticky honey glaze. Serve immediately for maximum crunch!
How to Serve Crispy Honey-Glazed Shrimp
Garnishes
Add a showstopping finish with a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds and a scattering of thinly sliced green onions. Not only do they make your Crispy Honey-Glazed Shrimp look straight out of a restaurant, but they also add fresh flavor and a beautiful color contrast.
Side Dishes
This dish loves some company! Serve alongside steamed jasmine rice, fluffy coconut rice, pan-fried noodles, or over crisp salad greens for a lighter meal. Each side soaks up the sticky honey glaze and rounds out the meal perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, thread the glazed shrimp onto skewers for an easy party appetizer, or pile them onto lettuce cups for a handheld treat. Try them over crunchy Asian slaw, or even wrapped in warm bao buns—Crispy Honey-Glazed Shrimp are endlessly versatile!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, let the shrimp cool completely. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To keep the coating as crisp as possible, avoid piling the shrimp until they’re cool.
Freezing
While best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze unfried, breaded shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 1 month. Fry directly from frozen, adding a minute or two to the cooking time. Freezing after glazing isn’t recommended as the breading can get soggy.
Reheating
To revive that crispiness, reheat leftovers in a 375°F oven or air fryer for about 5–7 minutes. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can make the breading chewy rather than crisp.
FAQs
Can I make Crispy Honey-Glazed Shrimp in the air fryer or oven?
Absolutely! Arrange the breaded shrimp in a single layer, lightly mist with oil, and air fry at 400°F for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway. For the oven, bake at 425°F on a parchment-lined tray for about 12–15 minutes, also flipping once for even crispiness.
How spicy is the glaze? Can I adjust the heat?
The honey glaze is sweet with just a hint of heat if you add the sriracha. If you love it milder, simply leave out the sriracha or use half. Love more kick? Add an extra drizzle or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
What type Main Course
Large shrimp (about 21–25 count per pound), peeled and deveined, work best for this recipe. They stay juicy and are easy to coat evenly, but you can use medium shrimp for bite-sized appetizers as well.
Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of panko?
You can substitute, but panko creates a much crunchier result—exactly what sets Crispy Honey-Glazed Shrimp apart. Regular breadcrumbs will work in a pinch; just note the final texture will be a bit softer.
What’s the best way to toss the shrimp in the glaze?
For the crispiest finish, quickly toss the fried shrimp in a large mixing bowl with the hot glaze right before serving. Toss gently to coat without losing that crunchy breading!
Final Thoughts
Crispy Honey-Glazed Shrimp is one of those unforgettable dishes that’s so easy yet delivers big, crowd-pleasing flavors every single time. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe—get ready for crunchy, sticky, sweet, and utterly addictive shrimp that’ll have everyone asking for seconds!
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Crispy Honey-Glazed Shrimp Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Enjoy the delightful combination of crispy shrimp coated in a sweet and tangy honey glaze with a hint of spice. These honey-glazed shrimp are perfect for a quick and flavorful Asian-inspired meal that will leave your taste buds wanting more.
Ingredients
Shrimp:
- 1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 2 large eggs (beaten)
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- vegetable oil (for frying)
Honey Glaze:
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sriracha (optional)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water
Instructions
- Prepare Shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry, season with salt and pepper. Set up breading station with cornstarch, eggs, and panko.
- Bread Shrimp: Dredge shrimp in cornstarch, then egg, and coat with panko.
- Fry Shrimp: Fry in hot oil until golden and crispy.
- Make Glaze: Combine honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sriracha, sesame oil, and cornstarch slurry. Cook until thickened.
- Glaze Shrimp: Toss fried shrimp in glaze until coated. Serve hot.
Notes
- Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions.
- Serve with rice, noodles, or salad.
- For a lighter option, air fry or bake the shrimp.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6–8 shrimp
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 14 g
- Sodium: 580 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 27 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 20 g
- Cholesterol: 145 mg
