A Quick and Flavorful Shrimp Dish
Craving a dish that’s equal parts sweet, spicy, and savory? Look no further than this 30-Minute Sweet Chili Shrimp. Coated in a sticky homemade sweet chili sauce made with honey, Sriracha, and soy sauce, these juicy shrimp pack a flavorful punch. Paired with tender sautéed bell peppers, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality results in the comfort of your kitchen.
Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish comes together in just 30 minutes. Serve it over rice, noodles, or enjoy it on its own for a low-carb option. Either way, the bold flavors and beautiful colors make it a crowd-pleaser every time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy nights.
- Bold Flavors: The sweet chili sauce is the perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and savory.
- Versatile: Serve it over rice, noodles, or as a flavorful appetizer.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Shrimp and Bell Peppers:
- Shrimp: 1 lb, raw, peeled, and deveined for easy preparation.
- Bell Peppers: A mix of red and green peppers for vibrant color and crunch.
- Olive Oil: For sautéing the shrimp and peppers.
- Garlic: Minced for bold flavor.
- Crushed Red Chili Pepper Flakes: Adds heat to the shrimp.
For the Sweet Chili Sauce:
- Soy Sauce: Adds salty, umami depth.
- Sriracha: Brings the heat.
- Honey: Balances the spice with sweetness.
- Ginger: Dried ginger adds a warm, aromatic kick.
For Garnish:
- Toasted Sesame Seeds: Adds a nutty crunch.
- Fresh Parsley: Brings freshness and a pop of green.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Sauté the Bell Peppers:
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced bell peppers, season with salt, and cook for 5–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender-crisp. Transfer to a bowl and set aside.
2. Cook the Shrimp:
In the same skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the shrimp, minced garlic, and crushed red chili pepper flakes. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt. Cook for about 2 minutes on each side until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Remove from heat.
3. Make the Sweet Chili Sauce:
To the skillet with the shrimp, add soy sauce, Sriracha, honey, and dried ginger. Toss to coat the shrimp thoroughly, cooking for 1–2 minutes on low-medium heat until the sauce thickens and clings to the shrimp. Be careful not to overcook.
4. Assemble the Dish:
Serve the shrimp over the cooked bell peppers. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and freshly chopped parsley.
Tips for Perfect Sweet Chili Shrimp
- Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly—2 minutes per side is usually enough.
- Adjust the Heat: Add more or less Sriracha and red chili flakes depending on your spice tolerance.
- Toast the Sesame Seeds: Toasting sesame seeds in the oven or on a skillet enhances their flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Over Rice or Noodles: Serve over jasmine rice, basmati rice, or your favorite noodles to soak up the sauce.
- Low-Carb Option: Pair with cauliflower rice or steamed broccoli for a lighter meal.
- Appetizer: Serve as a party appetizer with toothpicks for easy snacking.
Storing and Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water if the sauce thickens too much.
Why This Dish Will Be Your Weeknight Hero
This 30-Minute Sweet Chili Shrimp combines the perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and savory with minimal effort. The juicy shrimp, tender bell peppers, and sticky sauce make it an irresistible dinner option. Whether you’re feeding your family or entertaining guests, this dish is guaranteed to impress!