Shrimp dinners are a favorite in our home; especially when they’re fast, flavorful, and packed with protein. This high-protein honey garlic shrimp recipe was born on one of those hectic weeknights when dinner needed to be on the table in under 30 minutes. I opened the fridge, saw a bag of shrimp, and thought, “Let’s try something sticky-sweet with a punch of garlic.”
The first bite was all it took. My husband looked up, eyebrows raised, and said, “Keep this one.” That’s how this became a weekly staple in our kitchen; fast, filling, and downright delicious.
Table of Contents
Why You Will Love This High-Protein Honey Garlic Shrimp Recipe
Quick, Clean Protein
Shrimp is naturally high in lean protein and low in fat, making it ideal for those focused on nutrition without compromising flavor. This honey garlic variation packs around 35 grams of protein per serving, especially when paired with quinoa or stir-fried veggies. It’s a wholesome option that doesn’t taste like a sacrifice.
Flavor in Every Bite
What sets this high-protein shrimp apart is its simple yet bold marinade. The combination of garlic, soy sauce, and honey caramelizes beautifully in the pan, creating a glossy, golden coating that clings to each piece. This makes it feel like restaurant takeout, without the additives.
Looking for more quick protein options? Try this high-protein creamy taco soup for another satisfying dinner.
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High-Protein Honey Garlic Shrimp
Quick, flavorful, and protein-packed! This high-protein honey garlic shrimp is ready in under 30 minutes and perfect for busy weeknights.
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
Ingredients
1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
3 tablespoons honey
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
1 tablespoon olive oil or sesame oil
1 teaspoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water (optional)
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Green onions and sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
1. In a bowl, mix honey, soy sauce, garlic, and oil. Add shrimp and marinate for 10–15 minutes.
2. Heat skillet over medium-high heat. Cook shrimp 1–2 minutes per side until pink.
3. Pour in leftover marinade and simmer.
4. (Optional) Add cornstarch slurry and simmer 1–2 minutes to thicken.
5. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Notes
You can substitute shrimp with tofu or chicken for different protein options.
Make it gluten-free by using tamari instead of soy sauce.
Add a splash of lime or orange juice for a citrusy twist.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 340
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 180mg
Ingredients
Here’s everything you need to whip up this sticky shrimp success:
- 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (or sesame oil)
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water (optional, for thickening)
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Green onions and sesame seeds (for garnish)
Ingredient tip: For even more protein, serve this honey garlic dish with steamed edamame or quinoa.
You might also like these crockpot chicken dinner that require minimal prep and deliver big flavor.
How to Make It
Making high-protein shrimp at home takes less than 20 minutes total.
- 1. Marinate the shrimp:
In a bowl, mix honey, soy sauce, garlic, and olive oil. Add the shrimp and let it sit for 10–15 minutes. This gives it time to soak up all that sweet-savory flavor. - 2. Cook quickly over high heat:
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp (without overcrowding the pan) and cook for 1–2 minutes per side until pink and curled. Pour in leftover marinade and simmer. - 3. Thicken the sauce (optional):
If you want a glossy glaze, mix the cornstarch and water in a small bowl, then stir it into the skillet. Let it bubble for 1–2 minutes until thick. - 4. Finish and serve:
Remove from heat and garnish with sesame seeds and green onions. Serve immediately over rice, noodles, or even zoodles.
Need something even quicker? This 3-ingredient orange chicken is a weeknight lifesaver.
Tips and Variations
Make it spicy or citrusy
Add a tablespoon of sriracha for a spicy garlic kick or stir in a splash of lime juice for a tangy twist. For citrus-lovers, orange zest adds another layer of flavor that works beautifully with honey.
Swap the protein
Not a shrimp fan? This glaze works wonders on chicken breast, tofu, or even salmon. You’ll get the same protein punch with a different twist. Serve it with steamed broccoli or roasted sweet potatoes for a hearty plate.
And if you’re craving comfort, you’ll love this creamy brown sugar Dijon chicken, it’s sweet, savory, and ultra-satisfying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes! Just make sure it’s thawed and patted dry before marinating to avoid excess water thinning the sauce.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Gently warm in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave with a splash of water to prevent drying out.
Can I prep this ahead?
Absolutely. You can marinate the shrimp up to 24 hours in advance and cook when ready. Leftovers last up to 3 days in the fridge.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Swap the soy sauce for tamari or coconut aminos to make it completely gluten-free.
For a similar flavor profile, try this honey garlic ground turkey recipe; it’s equally high in protein and fast to cook.
Final Thoughts
This high-protein honey garlic shrimp recipe is proof that healthy doesn’t have to mean bland or boring. It’s a little sweet, a little savory, and a whole lot satisfying. Whether you’re counting macros or just craving a flavorful dinner, this dish has you covered in under 30 minutes. Perfect for busy nights, meal prep Sundays, or impressing someone special without breaking a sweat.
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