Honey garlic glazed shrimp skewers are a tasty and easy dish that brings together juicy shrimp coated in a sweet and garlicky sauce. The glaze is sticky and full of flavor, making each bite a perfect mix of sweet and savory that’s hard to resist. These skewers are great for a quick weeknight dinner or a backyard barbecue because they cook so fast on the grill or stovetop.
I love making these skewers when I want something quick but still special. The honey and garlic combo is a classic that I find everyone enjoys, and it’s fun to watch the sauce get thick and shiny as it caramelizes on the shrimp. Sometimes I like to add a little chili flakes for a bit of spice, but they’re just as delicious without it. It’s a simple touch that makes me feel like I’m putting in a little extra effort without any hassle.
Serving these shrimp skewers over rice or alongside a fresh salad makes for a balanced and colorful meal. I often toss in some grilled vegetables too, like bell peppers or zucchini, to round things out. These skewers are always a hit whether I’m hosting friends or making a casual dinner, and they’re one of those recipes I keep coming back to because they never disappoint.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp work best because they hold up well on the grill and cook quickly. If you can’t find large shrimp, medium-sized ones will do fine. Just keep an eye on cooking time so they don’t overcook.
Honey: Honey adds natural sweetness and helps create that sticky glaze. If you prefer a different flavor, you can try maple syrup or agave nectar as a substitute.
Garlic: Fresh garlic brings a sharp, aromatic flavor that’s essential here. Avoid pre-minced garlic in a jar, as it usually lacks freshness and punch.
Soy Sauce: This gives a salty, umami kick that balances the sweetness. For a gluten-free option, tamari works great. You can also reduce salt if needed since soy sauce is salty already.
Rice Vinegar & Ginger (Optional): These add brightness and a slight zing. If you don’t have rice vinegar, a splash of lemon juice or apple cider vinegar can work. Fresh ginger adds warmth but can be skipped if unavailable.
How Do You Keep Shrimp Tender and Not Overcooked?
Shrimp cook very quickly and easily become rubbery if left too long. Follow these tips for tender shrimp:
- Marinate shrimp for only 15-30 minutes. Longer can start to “cook” them in acidic ingredients and make them tough.
- Thread shrimp loosely on skewers so they cook evenly.
- Grill over medium-high heat and cook shrimp about 2-3 minutes per side. Watch for the color change: shrimp turn pink and opaque when done.
- Brush glaze while cooking but avoid thick sauces that can burn.
- Remove shrimp as soon as they are opaque and firm but still juicy.
With these tips, your shrimp will stay juicy and perfectly tender with a lovely caramelized glaze.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Grill or grill pan – I prefer grilling for those slightly charred, smoky flavors that really enhance the shrimp.
- Mixing bowl – to whisk together the marinade ingredients easily.
- Soaking container or water bath – for soaking the wooden skewers, which prevents them from burning on the grill.
- Cooking brush – useful for brushing leftover marinade onto the shrimp while grilling, to enhance flavor and moisture.
- Serving platter – a simple way to display your skewers ready to enjoy.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add a splash of lime juice or zest to the marinade for a citrusy kick—great with fishy or tropical vibes.
- Include chopped herbs like cilantro or basil in the marinade or as a garnish for fresh flavor.
- Sprinkle with crushed red pepper or chili flakes if you like some heat.
- Swap shrimp for chicken, beef, or tofu if you want a different protein on the skewers.
Honey Garlic Glazed Shrimp Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails on
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (optional for tanginess)
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Wooden skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
- Chopped green onions and sesame seeds, for garnish
- Fresh cilantro, chopped for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 6 minutes to cook. Don’t forget to soak the wooden skewers ahead of time for at least 30 minutes to prevent them from burning on the grill. Marinade time is just 15 to 30 minutes, so you can have delicious shrimp skewers ready in under an hour.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Honey Garlic Marinade:
In a mixing bowl, whisk together honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, olive oil, rice vinegar (if using), grated ginger, and red pepper flakes (if you’d like a bit of heat). Add a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
2. Marinate the Shrimp:
Add the peeled shrimp to the bowl and toss to coat completely with the marinade. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 15 to 30 minutes. Avoid marinating longer to keep the shrimp tender.
3. Prepare the Skewers and Grill:
Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Thread 3 to 4 shrimp onto each soaked wooden skewer, leaving a little space between them for even cooking.
4. Cook the Shrimp Skewers:
Place the shrimp skewers on the grill. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes on each side. While cooking, brush the shrimp with the remaining marinade to keep them flavorful and moist. Watch carefully — shrimp turn pink and opaque when done, and you want a slight char without overcooking.
5. Serve and Garnish:
Transfer the grilled shrimp skewers to a serving plate. Sprinkle with chopped green onions, sesame seeds, and fresh cilantro if you like. Serve them hot, perfect on their own, over rice, or alongside a crisp salad or grilled veggies.
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, but be sure to fully thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or under cold running water before marinating. Pat them dry to avoid excess moisture that can affect the glaze.
How Long Can I Marinate the Shrimp?
Marinate the shrimp for 15 to 30 minutes only. Longer marinating, especially with acidic ingredients like vinegar, can make the shrimp tough and rubbery.
Can I Cook These Shrimp Skewers Indoors?
Absolutely! Use a grill pan or a cast-iron skillet on the stovetop over medium-high heat. Cook the shrimp the same way, 2-3 minutes per side, brushing with the glaze.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a pan or microwave to avoid overcooking and drying them out.