High Protein Honey Garlic Shrimp Recipe (28g Protein, 20 Minutes)

Juicy jumbo shrimp coated in a sticky-sweet honey garlic glaze delivers 28 grams of protein per serving in just 20 minutes. This savory recipe satisfies cravings for Chinese takeout flavors while keeping things healthy, gluten-free adaptable, and perfect for meal prep. Pair it with rice or veggies for a complete high-protein dinner everyone loves.​

Why This Recipe Stands Out

High-protein shrimp provides lean muscle-building power with omega-3s for heart health and low calories for guilt-free indulgence. The glossy sauce clings perfectly thanks to a quick marinade and reduction technique that locks in juices without sogginess. Readers rave about its restaurant-quality taste from simple pantry staples.​

Nutrition Highlights

Nutrient (per serving)	Amount
Calories	350​
Protein	28g​
Carbs	20g
Fat	10g
Fiber	1g

Values based on 4 servings from 1lb shrimp. Naturally low-fat and keto-friendly when skipping rice.​

Ingredients

Serves 4 (scale up as needed)

Sauce and Marinade:

• 1/3 cup honey
• 1/4 cup tamari soy sauce (or coconut aminos for soy-free)
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust for heat)

Shrimp and Cooking:

• 1 lb jumbo raw shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on optional)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil

Garnish:

• 2 green onions, thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro or parsley
• 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
• Lemon wedges for serving​

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Honey Garlic Sauce

Whisk honey, tamari, minced garlic, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes in a small bowl until smooth. This sticky base builds bold umami-sweet flavor that elevates the shrimp.​

2. Marinate the Shrimp

Toss shrimp with 1/3 of the sauce in a separate bowl. Let sit 15-20 minutes at room temperature for maximum flavor infusion. Reserve the remaining 2/3 sauce covered in the fridge.​

3. Cook the Shrimp

Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add marinated shrimp in a single layer (cook in batches if needed). Sear 1-2 minutes per side until pink and just opaque. Remove to a plate.​

4. Thicken the Sauce

Pour reserved sauce into the hot skillet. Simmer 1-2 minutes, stirring until it reduces to a glossy glaze. Return shrimp to the pan, toss to coat evenly, and heat through for 30 seconds.​

5. Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat. Sprinkle with green onions, cilantro, and sesame seeds. Squeeze fresh lemon over top for brightness. Serve immediately.​

Pro Tips for Perfection

• Shrimp Selection: Choose jumbo (16-20 count per lb) for meaty texture and highest protein. Frozen peeled/deveined saves time; thaw overnight in fridge.
• Deveining Demo: For fresh shrimp, slice shallow along back, pull out dark vein, rinse. Keeps texture clean without grittiness.​
• Avoid Rubberiness: Cook to loose “C” shape, not tight “O”. Overcooking squeezes out juices.
• Substitutions: Swap honey for maple syrup; use low-sodium soy; add chicken cubes for variety (same method, longer cook time).​
• Make Ahead: Marinate up to 2 hours ahead. Cook fresh for best results.

Serving Ideas

Transform this versatile dish for any meal:

• Classic Bowl: Over jasmine rice or cauliflower rice with steamed broccoli and garlic bok choy.
• Low-Carb Wrap: Tail-off shrimp in butter lettuce cups with bean sprouts and extra green onions.
• High-Protein Salad: Toss with quinoa, spinach, and sesame dressing for 35g+ protein.
• Side Pairings: Roasted asparagus, garlic potatoes, or zucchini fries.​

Storage and Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container up to 4 days in fridge. Reheat gently in skillet over low heat with a splash of water to revive sauce (1 minute max). Microwave 60 seconds works too, but avoid rubbery results. Freezes well up to 2 months; thaw overnight before reheating.​

Frequently Asked Questions

How much protein is in this shrimp dish?
About 28g per serving from pure shrimp, making it ideal for fitness goals or low-calorie diets.​

Can I skip the marinade?
Yes, cook immediately for 15-minute results, though marinating boosts flavor penetration.​

Is it gluten-free?
Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for full gluten-free compatibility.​

What if I don’t have fresh ginger?
Substitute 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger; fresh delivers superior zing.​

This honey garlic shrimp delivers craveable sticky-sweet perfection with serious protein power. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep success.​

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