Grilled Honey Garlic Shrimp
The first time I made Grilled Honey Garlic Shrimp, I was yearning for something fresh and vibrant on a warm summer evening. The sun was setting, casting a golden hue over the backyard as I marinated the luscious shrimp in a sweet and savory concoction of honey and garlic. It was one of those spontaneous moments where I decided to fire up the grill and whip up something special. As the shrimp sizzled away, the aroma of the honey and garlic wafted through the air, making my mouth water in anticipation. Friends gathered around, curious about the delicious scent, and soon we found ourselves enjoying a delightful meal together, all smiles and laughter.
Recipe Snapshot
15 mins
10 mins
5 mins
Medium
150 kcal
23 g
Keto, Paleo, Whole30
3 g
Mixing Bowl, Peeler
Why This Grilled Honey Garlic Shrimp Stands Out
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are countless reasons to adore Grilled Honey Garlic Shrimp, and I’m excited to share a few of my favorites!
It’s Quick and Easy
One of the best things about this recipe is how quickly it comes together. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a meal that feels gourmet without spending all day in the kitchen. I love how I can mix the marinade while prepping the shrimp, making this dish ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Perfectly Balanced Flavors
The marriage of sweet honey and savory garlic creates a flavor explosion that is sure to impress. This delightful combination enhances the natural sweetness of the shrimp, making each bite deliciously addictive. You won’t be able to stop at just one skewer!
Grill Marks and Char
There’s something magical about the grilled flavor that adds a smoky depth to the shrimp. The beautiful grill marks not only make the dish visually appealing but also enhance the overall taste. Plus, grilling is a great excuse to spend time outdoors and enjoy the lovely weather.
Versatile Serving Options
Whether you’re serving these shrimp on skewers for a casual summer BBQ or plated elegantly for a dinner party, they fit any occasion. I often pair them with a refreshing salad or serve them with rice to soak up the delicious marinade.
Healthy and Wholesome
This dish is not only packed with flavor but also offers a healthy protein source. Shrimp is low in calories and high in protein, making it a guilt-free option for those looking to eat healthily while still enjoying delicious food.
Ingredients to Make Grilled Honey Garlic Shrimp

When you gather the ingredients for Grilled Honey Garlic Shrimp, you’ll find it a delightful mix of simple yet impactful components. Each element plays a role in crafting a dish that bursts with flavor. The shrimp is the star, while the marinade of honey, garlic, and olive oil takes it to the next level.
- 1 pound large shrimp (26-30/pound), thawed & peeled (tails on): The star of this dish, these juicy shrimp absorb the marinade beautifully, ensuring each bite is flavorful.
- 1 tablespoon BBQ sauce: Adds a hint of smoky flavor and complexity to the dish.
- 3 tablespoons honey: This natural sweetener balances the savory notes and creates a delicious glaze.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Helps to keep the shrimp moist on the grill and adds a touch of richness.
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce: A touch of umami that enhances the overall flavor profile.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: The aromatic essence that enlivens the dish with its pungent flavor.
- Pepper to taste: A sprinkle of pepper adds just the right amount of spice to the mix.
How to Prepare Grilled Honey Garlic Shrimp

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the steps to prepare Grilled Honey Garlic Shrimp. It’s all about following the directions carefully to achieve that perfect balance of flavors.
Start by mixing the marinade ingredients in a small bowl. Combine the BBQ sauce, honey, olive oil, soy sauce, and garlic. Whisk until blended.
Next, add the shrimp to a large Ziploc bag. Pour the marinade over the shrimp and gently move the bag around to ensure all the shrimp are evenly coated. This step is crucial for maximum flavor.
Seal the bag and pop it in the fridge for 15 to 30 minutes. This allows the shrimp to soak up all those delicious flavors.
If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 20 to 30 minutes. This prevents them from burning on the grill.
Once the shrimp are marinated, thread them onto the skewers. Make sure they’re spaced out evenly, which allows for even cooking.
Preheat your BBQ or grill to high heat, then reduce it to medium-high. This step is essential for achieving that perfect grill mark.
Grill the skewers for about 2 minutes on each side. Look for the shrimp to turn pink and opaque, indicating they are cooked through. Avoid overcooking them, as they can become rubbery.
Once the shrimp are done, you can serve them right on the skewers for a fun presentation or take them off before serving.
Enjoy your beautifully grilled shrimp with a side of rice or a fresh salad!
Things Worth Knowing
- Marinating Time: It’s essential to allow the shrimp to marinate for at least 15 minutes. For even more flavor, consider marinating for up to 30 minutes.
- Grilling Temperature: Always preheat the grill. The high heat is important for getting a good sear on the shrimp.
- Watch the Cooking Time: Shrimp cooks quickly! Keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking.
- Skewers: If using wooden skewers, remember to soak them to prevent burning. Metal skewers do not require this step.
Recipe Notes about Grilled Honey Garlic Shrimp

As you prepare to make Grilled Honey Garlic Shrimp, here are some tips to keep in mind for best results.
- Storage: Leftover shrimp can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently to avoid drying them out.
- Freezing: You can freeze the marinated shrimp before grilling. Just make sure to use them within three months for optimal taste.
- Pairing: These shrimp go wonderfully with grilled vegetables, rice, or a refreshing salad.
- Customization: Feel free to add your favorite spices or herbs to the marinade for a personalized touch.
- Serving: They can be served as appetizers or as a main dish, making them versatile for any meal.
Serving Suggestions
Grilled Honey Garlic Shrimp is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile when it comes to serving options. Here are some ideas to inspire your next meal:- Over Rice: Serve the grilled shrimp over a bed of fluffy white rice or quinoa to soak up the tasty marinade.
- As an Appetizer: Thread the shrimp onto skewers and serve them as bite-sized appetizers at parties or gatherings.
- With Salads: Add the grilled shrimp to a refreshing green salad for a protein-packed meal.
- On Tacos: Use the grilled shrimp as a filling for tacos, topped with your favorite salsa and avocado.
- Pairs Well with Drinks: Enjoy these shrimp with a refreshing lemonade or iced tea on a warm day.
- Seasonal Occasions: Perfect for summer BBQs, family gatherings, or casual dinners, this dish fits seamlessly into many occasions.
- Garnish: Consider garnishing with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for added freshness and color.
FAQ
Conclusion
Grilled Honey Garlic Shrimp is a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors that enhances the natural sweetness of the shrimp, making it a dish you’ll want to savor. I encourage you to try this recipe for your next gathering or a cozy dinner at home. With its quick preparation and delicious results, you’ll surely enjoy every bite!

Grilled Honey Garlic Shrimp
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by mixing the marinade ingredients in a small bowl. Combine the BBQ sauce, honey, olive oil, soy sauce, and garlic. Whisk until blended.
- Next, add the shrimp to a large Ziploc bag. Pour the marinade over the shrimp and gently move the bag around to ensure all the shrimp are evenly coated. This step is crucial for maximum flavor.
- Seal the bag and pop it in the fridge for 15 to 30 minutes. This allows the shrimp to soak up all those delicious flavors.
- If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 20 to 30 minutes. This prevents them from burning on the grill.
- Once the shrimp are marinated, thread them onto the skewers. Make sure they’re spaced out evenly, which allows for even cooking.
- Preheat your BBQ or grill to high heat, then reduce it to medium-high. This step is essential for achieving that perfect grill mark.
- Grill the skewers for about 2 minutes on each side. Look for the shrimp to turn pink and opaque, indicating they are cooked through. Avoid overcooking them, as they can become rubbery.
- Once the shrimp are done, you can serve them right on the skewers for a fun presentation or take them off before serving.
- Enjoy your beautifully grilled shrimp with a side of rice or a fresh salad!


