Hot Honey Fried Shrimp

Crispy, golden fried shrimp meet a bold and flavorful hot honey glaze in this irresistible dish. The balance of sweet and spicy makes every bite exciting, while the crunchy panko coating ensures the perfect crisp texture. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just craving something indulgent, this recipe is a must try.

Ideal for game nights, casual gatherings, or even a quick weeknight dinner, these Hot Honey Fried Shrimp come together in just 30 minutes. Serve them over rice, in tacos, or as a finger food for entertaining. However you enjoy them, one thing is certain these shrimp are dangerously delicious and highly addictive!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

For the Shrimp:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika

• ¼ teaspoon salt

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 1 cup buttermilk

• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs

• Vegetable oil for frying

For the Hot Honey Glaze:

• ½ cup honey

• 2-3 tablespoons hot sauce (adjust to taste)

• 1 tablespoon butter

• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)

• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

Directions:

Prepare the Shrimp:

1. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels, then season with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.

2. Set up a dredging station: Place flour in one shallow dish, pour buttermilk into a second dish, and panko breadcrumbs in a third dish.

Coat the Shrimp:
3. Dredge each shrimp in flour, dip into buttermilk, and then press into the panko breadcrumbs to coat completely.
4. Place the coated shrimp on a plate or baking sheet and repeat with the remaining shrimp.

Fry the Shrimp:
5. Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot to 350°F (175°C).
6. Fry the shrimp in small batches for 2-3 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
7. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Prepare the Hot Honey Glaze:
8. In a small saucepan, combine honey, hot sauce, butter, red pepper flakes (if using), and apple cider vinegar.
9. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the butter melts and the mixture is smooth. Remove from heat.

Serve:
10. Drizzle the hot honey glaze over the fried shrimp or serve on the side as a dipping sauce.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes

Calories: 450-500 kcal | Servings: 4

Hot Honey Fried Shrimp: A Perfect Balance of Crispy, Sweet, and Spicy

Hot Honey Fried Shrimp is an irresistible dish that masterfully balances the crunch of golden-fried shrimp with the bold combination of sweet honey and fiery spice. This recipe is not only a delight to eat but also surprisingly easy to make at home, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Whether you’re a seafood lover, a fan of bold flavors, or just looking for an exciting new dish to try, this one is sure to impress.

In this article, we’ll dive deeper into what makes this dish so special, its origins, variations, serving suggestions, and why it’s a must-add to your recipe collection.

The Magic of Hot Honey Fried Shrimp

The beauty of Hot Honey Fried Shrimp lies in its contrast of textures and flavors. The shrimp are coated in a light but crispy breading that gives them an irresistible crunch. Then, they’re drizzled or tossed in a hot honey glaze, which combines the natural sweetness of honey with the punch of chili peppers or hot sauce. This results in a dish that is sweet, spicy, crunchy, and utterly satisfying.

The combination of honey and heat has gained immense popularity in recent years, appearing in everything from chicken to pizza. However, when paired with fried shrimp, it creates a particularly mouthwatering dish. The light sweetness of honey helps tame the heat, ensuring that every bite is flavorful without being overwhelming.

Origins and Influence of Hot Honey

Hot honey itself has a fascinating culinary history. While it has recently surged in popularity in the U.S., thanks to chefs and food brands embracing the trend, it has been a staple in various cuisines for centuries. Spicy honey-based sauces can be found in Southern cooking, where they are commonly paired with fried chicken. In Italian cuisine, chili-infused honey is often drizzled over pizzas and cheeses. Many Asian cuisines also incorporate a blend of sweetness and heat, particularly in sauces for stir-fries and glazes.

Fried shrimp, on the other hand, has long been a beloved dish in coastal cuisines worldwide. From Southern style fried seafood platters in the U.S. to Japanese tempura shrimp, crispy shrimp dishes are universally enjoyed. By combining these two elements the comforting crunch of fried shrimp and the dynamic heat of hot honey we get a modern, irresistible dish with global influences.

Why This Recipe Works

1. Perfectly Balanced Flavor Profile

   • The sweetness of honey complements the natural brininess of shrimp, while the heat from chili peppers or hot sauce adds a kick that keeps you coming back for more.

2. Crunchy, Light Coating

   • The use of panko breadcrumbs or a well-seasoned flour coating creates an extra-crispy exterior without feeling heavy or greasy.

3. Quick and Easy to Make

   • With a total cook time of about 30 minutes, this dish is ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or a last-minute party snack.

4. Versatility in Spice Level

   • The heat level can be easily adjusted to suit individual preferences, making it accessible to both spice lovers and those who prefer milder flavors.

5. Pairs Well with Various Dishes

   • Hot Honey Fried Shrimp can be served in multiple ways, making it a versatile addition to your meal rotation.

Serving Suggestions

There are endless ways to enjoy Hot Honey Fried Shrimp. Here are a few serving ideas to suit different occasions and preferences:

1. As an Appetizer

• Serve the shrimp as a finger food with extra hot honey glaze for dipping. Add a side of cooling ranch or blue cheese dressing to balance the heat.

• Pair with fresh veggies like celery sticks or cucumber slices for a refreshing contrast.

2. Over Rice or Quinoa

• A bed of jasmine rice, coconut rice, or quinoa makes a great base to soak up the flavorful hot honey glaze.

• Add steamed or stir-fried vegetables such as broccoli, snap peas, or bell peppers for a well-rounded meal.

3. In Tacos

• Wrap the shrimp in warm tortillas with shredded cabbage, avocado, and a drizzle of lime crema for the ultimate seafood taco.

• Top with pickled onions and fresh cilantro for added zest and brightness.

4. As a Salad Topping

• Toss the crispy shrimp over a fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette.

• A mango or pineapple salsa can add a tropical twist to complement the dish’s flavors.

5. As a Sandwich or Slider

• Make a crispy shrimp sandwich by layering the shrimp on a toasted brioche bun with lettuce, tomato, and a smear of spicy mayo.

• Serve as sliders for a fun party food option.

Variations to Try

Hot Honey Fried Shrimp is a highly customizable dish, allowing you to experiment with different flavors and ingredients. Here are a few ways to put your own spin on it:

1. Baked or Air-Fried Version

   • Instead of deep frying, you can bake the shrimp at 400°F (200°C) for about 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.

   • Alternatively, use an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes for a healthier alternative without sacrificing crispiness.

2. Coconut Hot Honey Shrimp

   • Add shredded coconut to the breadcrumb coating for a slightly sweet, tropical variation.

3. Extra Spicy Version

   • Increase the heat by using a spicier hot sauce, adding cayenne pepper to the honey glaze, or sprinkling extra red pepper flakes.

4. Garlic Butter Hot Honey Shrimp

   • Add minced garlic and melted butter to the hot honey glaze for a richer, more decadent version.

Pairing Recommendations

To complete your meal, consider pairing Hot Honey Fried Shrimp with refreshing sides and beverages:

• Sides: Garlic butter rice, coleslaw, roasted sweet potatoes, cornbread, or sautéed greens.

• Beverages: A citrusy cocktail like a margarita or mojito, a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc, or a light, hoppy IPA beer to balance the heat.

Conclusion

Hot Honey Fried Shrimp is the perfect dish for those who love bold flavors and crave a mix of sweet and spicy. Its crispy texture, deliciously sticky glaze, and versatility make it a standout recipe that can be adapted to fit any meal plan. Whether served as an appetizer, main course, or even inside tacos or sandwiches, this dish is bound to impress family and friends alike.

What makes this recipe even more appealing is how easy it is to customize. Whether you prefer it extra spicy, baked instead of fried, or paired with different sides, the possibilities are endless. Plus, it comes together in under 30 minutes, making it a go to choice for busy home cooks.

If you’ve never tried hot honey with shrimp before, now is the perfect time to give it a shot. Once you take that first crispy, sweet, and spicy bite, you’ll understand why this dish is quickly becoming a favorite among food lovers everywhere. Enjoy!