This Orange Chili Garlic Shrimp is a bright and spicy dish that brings a burst of flavor to your table! The sweet orange juice pairs perfectly with zesty garlic and a kick of chili.
It’s a quick and tasty meal that’s ready in no time. I love serving it over rice for a delicious combo. You’ll want to make this often—trust me, it’s that good! 🍤
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp work best for this dish, but you can use medium or even frozen shrimp if that’s what you have. Just make sure to thaw frozen shrimp before cooking. I love the vibrant color of shrimp with tails on for presentation!
Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed orange juice gives the best flavor, but you can use bottled juice if fresh isn’t available. If you want a twist, try substituting with pineapple juice for a sweeter touch.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is essential here! It adds real depth of flavor. If you don’t have fresh garlic, garlic powder can work in a pinch (about 1/4 teaspoon for each clove).
Honey or Maple Syrup: Both are great for balancing the flavors. If you’re looking for a sugar-free option, try agave or a sugar-free sweetener. I often choose honey for its unique taste!
Chili Flakes: Adjust the amount based on your spice preference. If you want a milder version, you can use paprika instead or skip it altogether.
How Do I Make Sure My Shrimp Cook Perfectly?
Cooking shrimp can be tricky; you want them juicy but not rubbery! Here are a few tips to get it right:
- Always cook shrimp over medium-high heat; this helps them cook evenly without drying out.
- Place shrimp in a single layer in the skillet. This ensures they cook uniformly and get that nice sear.
- Cook them for about 2 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. If they start curling tightly, they’re overcooked!
Following these tips will leave you with perfectly cooked shrimp every time!
How to Make Orange Chili Garlic Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup fresh orange juice (about 1 large orange)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
- Salt, to taste
- Cooked white rice, for serving
- Orange slices, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish comes together quickly! You’ll need about 10 minutes to prep the ingredients and another 10 minutes to cook, making the total time approximately 20 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mixing the Sauce:
Start by grabbing a medium-sized bowl. Combine the fresh orange juice, soy sauce, honey or maple syrup, chili flakes, and black pepper. Whisk everything together until well-blended, and set it aside. This sauce is going to bring all the delicious flavors!
2. Heating the Skillet:
Next, take a large skillet and heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. The oil should be hot but not smoking. This is where you’ll sauté the garlic to infuse that heavenly aroma!
3. Sautéing the Garlic:
Add the minced garlic to the hot skillet and sauté for about 30 seconds. Be sure to stir it constantly so it doesn’t burn! You just want it to become fragrant and golden—your kitchen will smell fantastic!
4. Cooking the Shrimp:
Now, it’s time to add the shrimp. Place them in a single layer in the skillet to ensure even cooking. Let them cook for about 2 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Watch closely; shrimp cooks fast!
5. Adding the Sauce:
Once the shrimp are cooked, pour the orange chili sauce mixture over them. Stir everything gently to coat the shrimp with that delicious sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, letting the sauce thicken slightly. Your taste buds are in for a treat!
6. Final Touches:
Taste the shrimp and add salt as needed. Then, remove the skillet from heat. It’s ready to serve!
7. Plating:
To serve, dish the shrimp over a bed of cooked white rice. Don’t forget to sprinkle sliced green onions and sesame seeds on top for added crunch and flavor. And if you’re feeling fancy, add a pinch of extra chili flakes for an extra kick!
8. Garnishing:
For that final touch, garnish with fresh orange slices on the side. This not only looks great but also adds a nice zesty touch when you bite into the orange!
Enjoy this vibrant and flavorful Orange Chili Garlic Shrimp dish that balances sweet, spicy, and savory perfectly! Your family and friends will love it!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to completely thaw the frozen shrimp before cooking. You can thaw them overnight in the fridge or quickly by placing them in a sealed plastic bag and submerging in cold water for about 15-20 minutes.
How Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
If you love heat, you can increase the amount of chili flakes or even add fresh chopped chili to the dish. Another option is to incorporate a dash of hot sauce into the sauce mixture for an extra kick!
What Should I Serve with This Shrimp?
This dish pairs wonderfully with cooked white rice, but you can also serve it over quinoa, noodles, or even a bed of sautéed vegetables for a low-carb option. A fresh salad on the side can balance the meal nicely!
Can I Prepare the Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can mix the sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just give it a good stir before using, as some ingredients may settle. This can save you time on busy nights!