Name: Hot Honey Fried Shrimp: Sweet-Spicy Bites You’ll Crave
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 pound large peeled and deveined shrimp (for best texture and flavor); 1 cup all-purpose flour (sifted); 1 teaspoon garlic powder (adds savory depth); 1 teaspoon onion powder (contributes aromatic sweetness); 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (provides mild smokiness); 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust according to spice preference); 1 teaspoon salt (essential for flavor); 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (adds mild heat); 2 large eggs (acts as a binder); 1/2 cup milk (lightens the egg mixture); 2 cups vegetable oil (for frying, with a high smoke point); 1/2 cup honey (core component for glaze); 1/4 cup hot sauce (adjust to taste); 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (adds richness); 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (for tanginess); 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for extra heat)

The first time I tasted Hot Honey Fried Shrimp, it felt like fireworks on my palate—crunchy, spicy, and unexpectedly sweet all at once. This dish has swiftly become my go-to for impressing friends and family at gatherings, turning dinner into a casual feast with its delectable combination of flavors. Not only is this hot honey shrimp a feast for the eyes, but it also offers a quick 20-minute prep time, making it an easy dinner solution that doesn’t compromise on taste. Plus, it’s versatile enough to use frozen shrimp, letting you whip up this crowd-pleaser anytime. What’s your favorite way to elevate a homemade meal?

Why is Hot Honey Fried Shrimp Irresistible?

Quick to make, with just 20 minutes needed from start to finish, it’s perfect for busy weeknights. Flavorful with a delightful balance of sweet and spicy, this dish is sure to impress guests at gatherings. Versatile in serving options, enjoy it as an appetizer or pair it with side salads and fries for a full meal. Plus, the ability to use frozen shrimp makes it a reliable choice anytime you’re craving something delicious. If you’re a fan of spicy recipes, be sure to check out our Frozen Hot Chocolate or indulge in Oreo Hot Chocolate for a sweet finish!

Hot Honey Fried Shrimp Ingredients

Transform your cooking experience with these essential ingredients for Hot Honey Fried Shrimp!

For the Shrimp

Shrimp – Use large peeled and deveined shrimp for the best texture and flavor.

For the Coating

All-purpose Flour – Sifted flour ensures a light, crispy shell around the shrimp.
Garlic Powder – Adds savory depth effortlessly; fresh garlic is an option with adjusted measurements.
Onion Powder – Contributes a touch of aromatic sweetness to the coating.
Smoked Paprika – Provides a mild smokiness; regular paprika can substitute in a pinch.
Cayenne Pepper – Offers heat to enhance the shrimp flavor; adjust according to your spice preference.
Salt – Essential for bringing out the overall flavors.
Black Pepper – Adds a hint of mild heat and depth to the coating.

For the Binding

Eggs – This versatile ingredient acts as a binder, helping the flour adhere to the shrimp.
Milk – Lightens the egg mixture, creating a smoother batter for frying.

For Frying

Vegetable Oil – Necessary for frying; opt for an oil with a high smoke point or use canola oil instead.

For the Hot Honey Sauce

Honey – The core component for the hot honey glaze, offering sweetness and a gorgeous shine.
Hot Sauce – Introduces a spicy, tangy heat; feel free to adjust it to your taste buds!
Unsalted Butter – Adds richness to the sauce and enhances its flavor.
Apple Cider Vinegar – This adds tanginess to balance the sauce’s sweetness perfectly.
Red Pepper Flakes – Optional for those who crave a fiery kick in the sauce.

With these ingredients at hand, you’re ready to create mouthwatering Hot Honey Fried Shrimp that will leave everyone reaching for seconds! Enjoy cooking this delightful dish—ideal for any seafood lover!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Hot Honey Fried Shrimp

Step 1: Prepare the Hot Honey Sauce
In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine honey, hot sauce, unsalted butter, apple cider vinegar, and red pepper flakes. Stir the mixture gently until the butter has completely melted and the ingredients meld together, creating a glossy sauce. This should take about 3 to 5 minutes. Once melted, remove the sauce from the heat and set it aside to allow the flavors to blend.

Step 2: Rinse and Dry the Shrimp
Rinse the large peeled and deveined shrimp under cold water to ensure cleanliness. After rinsing, pat the shrimp dry with paper towels, removing excess moisture. This step is essential for achieving a crispy coating when frying the shrimp later. Set aside the dried shrimp while you prepare the coating.

Step 3: Mix the Coating Ingredients
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together sifted all-purpose flour, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. This flavorful mix will create a deliciously crispy shell for your hot honey shrimp. Ensure the seasoning is evenly distributed, as it will enhance the shrimp’s taste, making every bite a delight.

Step 4: Prepare the Egg Wash
In a separate bowl, beat together the eggs and milk until the mixture is smooth. This egg wash acts as a binder, helping the seasoned flour adhere to the shrimp effectively. Ensure the mixture is well combined and ready for dipping, as it will create a thicker coating that holds up during frying.

Step 5: Heat the Oil
In a deep pan or Dutch oven, pour enough vegetable oil to reach a depth of about 2 inches, and heat it over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Use a cooking thermometer to monitor the temperature closely. You can also drop a small spoonful of the flour mixture into the oil; if it sizzles, the oil is ready for frying your hot honey shrimp.

Step 6: Dredge the Shrimp
Taking each shrimp, first dredge it in the seasoned flour mixture, ensuring it’s thoroughly coated. Next, dip it into the egg wash, allowing any excess to drip off before returning it to the flour for a second round of coating. This double-layer technique creates an extra crispy shell, perfect for encapsulating the tender shrimp inside.

Step 7: Fry the Shrimp
Carefully place the coated shrimp into the hot oil, working in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, or until each piece reaches a golden brown color and has a crunchy texture. Use a slotted spoon to turn the shrimp as needed, then transfer them onto paper towels to drain any excess oil.

Step 8: Toss in the Hot Honey Sauce
In a large mixing bowl, combine the freshly fried shrimp with the prepared hot honey sauce. Gently toss until each shrimp is thoroughly coated with the sticky, sweet-spicy glaze. Serve your hot honey fried shrimp immediately, either plated or in a serving dish, with extra sauce on the side for dipping.

What to Serve with Hot Honey Fried Shrimp?

Creating the perfect meal is easy when you have the right sides to accompany these sweet-spicy bites!

Crispy Coleslaw: Perfectly crunchy and refreshing, coleslaw complements the rich flavors of the shrimp and adds a nice contrast.
Garlic Breadsticks: Soft, buttery breadsticks are an ideal companion, delivering a chewy texture to balance the juicy shrimp.
Zesty Lime Rice: Light and fluffy rice with a hint of lime enhances the flavors while providing a fresh burst that pairs beautifully with the dish.
Spicy Sautéed Greens: Try spicy sautéed spinach or kale to add a nutritious, peppery flavor that balances the sweetness of the hot honey sauce.
Chilled Cucumber Salad: The freshness of a cucumber salad offers a crisp bite, cooling the palate and balancing the spiciness of the shrimp
Craft Beer or White Wine: Pair with a craft beer that enhances the heat or a chilled white wine to elevate the overall dining experience.
Mini Chocolate Lava Cakes: A warm, gooey dessert makes for a decadent finish, where the richness will contrast beautifully with the shrimp’s zest.
Sweet Potato Fries: Golden brown sweet potato fries bring a slightly sweeter flavor and crispy texture that harmonizes perfectly with the shrimp.

Make Ahead Options

These Hot Honey Fried Shrimp are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can prep the shrimp by rinsing and drying them up to 24 hours in advance, which helps maintain their texture. Additionally, mix the dry coating ingredients and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to cook, simply dredge the shrimp in the prepared flour mixture, dip them in the egg wash, and fry them fresh for that delicious crunch. Toss the fried shrimp in the hot honey sauce shortly before serving to keep them just as flavorful and irresistible!

Expert Tips for Hot Honey Fried Shrimp

Dry Shrimp Well: Ensure shrimp are fully dried after rinsing to prevent excess moisture, which can lead to soggy coatings.
Oil Temperature Check: Use a thermometer to maintain oil temperature at 350°F (175°C). Frying at too low a temperature will make shrimp greasy.
Fry in Batches: Avoid overcrowding the pan; this ensures each shrimp cooks evenly and maintains its crispy texture.
Double Dredge: Don’t skip the second coating of flour after the egg wash for an extra crispy shell that keeps the shrimp juicy inside.
Flavor Adjustments: Feel free to tweak the amount of cayenne and red pepper flakes in the hot honey sauce to fit your spice preferences.

Hot Honey Fried Shrimp Variations

Feel free to make this dish your own with fun, tasty tweaks that will excite your taste buds!

Zesty Citrus: Add lemon zest or lime juice to the hot honey sauce for a refreshing twist that brightens each bite.
The citrus adds a lively zing, enhancing the savory elements beautifully.
Saucy Swap: Experiment with different hot sauces to adjust the spice level.
Whether you prefer a smoky chipotle or a classic cayenne, the right hot sauce can make all the difference!
Poultry Option: Try substituting shrimp with chicken tenders for a delightful twist on this classic dish.
This variation delivers the same crispy satisfaction but with a different protein experience.
Spicy Coconut: Incorporate coconut flakes into your flour mixture for a sweet, tropical flair.
The added texture and flavor create a mouthwatering contrast to the spicy notes in the sauce.
Crunchy Coating: Use panko breadcrumbs instead of flour for an ultra-crispy texture.
This swap creates a satisfyingly crunchy exterior while keeping the shrimp juicy inside.
Sweet Heat: Drizzle additional honey over your fried shrimp for a sweeter finish and stickier glaze.
It adds an elegant touch and a syrupy goodness that blends effortlessly.
Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley to the hot honey sauce for a vibrant color and refreshing flavor.
The herbs elevate the dish, providing not just freshness but a beautiful garnish too.
Tempura Twist: Give the shrimp a tempura-style batter with ice-cold sparkling water for an airy, light coating.
This creates a delightful crunch that contrasts wonderfully with the sauce’s richness.

If you’re looking for a comforting ending to your meal, pair your hot honey bites with a delicious drink like a Frozen Hot Chocolate or indulge in Oreo Hot Chocolate for a sweet treat!

How to Store and Freeze Hot Honey Fried Shrimp

Fridge: Keep leftover hot honey fried shrimp in an airtight container for up to 2 days. This helps maintain their flavors and juiciness but may affect crunchiness.

Freezer: If you want to store for longer, freeze the shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to 2 months.

Reheating: For the best texture, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes until crispy again. Avoid microwaving as this can make the shrimp soggy.

Thawing: When using frozen shrimp, thaw them in the fridge overnight before reheating, ensuring they retain their flavor and quality when served.

Hot Honey Fried Shrimp Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right shrimp?
Absolutely! For the best texture and flavor, opt for large peeled and deveined shrimp. Look for shrimp that are firm and have a slight sheen. Avoid shrimp with dark spots or an off-putting smell, as these can indicate they’re not fresh.

How should I store leftover hot honey fried shrimp?
You can keep your leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. This storage method helps maintain the shrimp’s flavors, but be aware that the coating may lose some of its crispiness over time. When ready to enjoy again, reheat them in the oven for a better texture.

Can I freeze hot honey fried shrimp?
Yes, you can! To freeze, place the fried shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, where they will stay fresh for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

What should I do if my shrimp aren’t crispy?
Very! If your shrimp turn out soggy, there are a few common culprits. First, ensure that the shrimp were properly dried before breading, as excess moisture can hinder crispness. Second, check the oil temperature; frying in oil that’s too cool can result in greasy shrimp. Aim for around 350°F (175°C) and test with a small piece of bread or batter to see if it bubbles and browns nicely.

Are there any dietary considerations with this recipe?
Certainly! The hot honey fried shrimp do use seafood, which may not be suitable for those with shellfish allergies. If you’re cooking for friends or family with specific dietary restrictions, always double-check ingredient labels for allergens in the hot sauce and any pre-packaged ingredients. For a fun twist, you can substitute shrimp with chicken tenders for a poultry version!

Can I use frozen shrimp instead of fresh?
You can definitely use frozen shrimp! Just ensure they are fully thawed and dried before breading. I often keep a bag of frozen shrimp handy for such occasions. Simply transfer them from the freezer to the refrigerator the night before to thaw, and they’ll be ready to create your hot honey fried shrimp with ease!