Name: Sweet and Spicy Hot Honey Fried Shrimp That Will Wow You
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 pound large shrimp (Main protein; tender and briny.); 1 cup all-purpose flour (Coating base for crispiness.); 1 teaspoon garlic powder (Adds savory flavor.); 1 teaspoon onion powder (Contributes sweetness and aromatic depth.); 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (Infuses mild smokiness.); 0.5 teaspoon cayenne pepper (Provides sharp heat.); 0.5 teaspoon salt (Enhances overall flavor.); 0.25 teaspoon black pepper (Adds subtle spice.); 2 large eggs (Acts as a binder.); 2 tablespoons milk (Lightens egg wash.); vegetable oil (For frying at high temperatures.); 0.5 cup honey (Base for sauce, delivering sweetness.); 2 tablespoons hot sauce (Adds spiciness to sauce.); 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (Adds richness.); 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (Provides tangy acidity.); 0.25 teaspoon red pepper flakes (Enhances sauce heat.)

The aroma of golden shrimp sizzling in hot oil is enough to transport me straight to my favorite Southern bistro. Today, I’m thrilled to share my recipe for Hot Honey Fried Shrimp, a delightful appetizer that perfectly balances sweet and spicy flavors. With a crispy coating that snaps beautifully with each bite, these shrimp are not only a feast for the senses but also a quick and impressive dish for your next gathering. Imagine surprising your guests with a dish that offers both indulgence and a zesty kick, making it a true crowd-pleaser. So, are you ready to elevate your shrimp game and infuse a little sweetness into your kitchen? Let’s dive into this flavor-packed journey together!

Why is Hot Honey Fried Shrimp so irresistible?

Crispy, Crunchy Perfection: The double-coating technique gives each shrimp an addictive crunch that brilliantly contrasts the tender meat inside.

Sweet Heat Delight: The combination of honey and hot sauce creates a mouthwatering sauce that strikes the perfect balance between sweet and spicy.

Quick to Impress: With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, you can whip up a gourmet appetizer in no time. Need more shrimp ideas? Try these flavorful options like Cajun Shrimp Boil or Honey Garlic Chicken.

Versatile Serving Options: Serve them with a zesty dipping sauce, a fresh salad, or crispy fries to create a delightful feast!

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: These shrimp are perfect for any occasion, and they’re sure to have your friends and family reaching for seconds!

Hot Honey Fried Shrimp Ingredients

• Create a delicious dish with these must-have ingredients!

For the Shrimp

Large shrimp (1 pound) – Main protein; tender and briny. Substitution: Use frozen shrimp, ensure they are thawed and pat dry.

For the Coating

All-purpose flour (1 cup) – Coating base for crispiness; helps other ingredients adhere.
Garlic powder (1 teaspoon) – Adds savory flavor without hassle.
Onion powder (1 teaspoon) – Contributes sweetness and aromatic depth in coating.
Smoked paprika (1 teaspoon) – Infuses mild smokiness; essential for flavor variety.
Cayenne pepper (½ teaspoon) – Provides sharp, clean heat; adjust for spice tolerance.
Salt (½ teaspoon) – Enhances overall flavor.
Black pepper (¼ teaspoon) – Adds subtle spice.
Eggs (2 large) – Acts as a binder for flour mixture.
Milk (2 tablespoons) – Lightens the egg wash for smoother batter.

For Frying

Vegetable oil (for frying) – Neutral oil for frying at high temperatures (350°F).

For the Sauce

Honey (½ cup) – Base for the sauce, delivering sweetness and gloss.
Hot sauce (2 tablespoons, adjust to taste) – Adds spiciness to the sauce; choose your favorite brand.
Unsalted butter (1 tablespoon) – Adds richness and aids sauce melting.
Apple cider vinegar (1 tablespoon) – Provides tangy acidity to balance sweetness.
Red pepper flakes (¼ teaspoon) – Enhances sauce heat and texture.

These ingredients come together to create the ultimate Hot Honey Fried Shrimp, a tantalizing appetizer that will wow your taste buds!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Hot Honey Fried Shrimp

Step 1: Prepare Sauce
In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine ½ cup of honey, 2 tablespoons of hot sauce, 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter, 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar, and ¼ teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Stir continuously until the butter melts and the mixture is smooth and well combined, about 3–5 minutes. Once ready, remove it from heat and set aside to let the flavors meld.

Step 2: Prep Shrimp
Start by rinsing 1 pound of large shrimp under cold water to remove any residues. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to ensure that the coating adheres well. This step is vital for achieving that perfect crunch in your Hot Honey Fried Shrimp, so take your time drying them completely before you proceed.

Step 3: Make Flour Mixture
In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon each of garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika, along with ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper, ½ teaspoon of salt, and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper. This flavorful blend will give your shrimp a deliciously crispy coating. Mix well to ensure all the spices are evenly distributed throughout the flour.

Step 4: Beat Eggs
In a separate bowl, crack 2 large eggs and add 2 tablespoons of milk. Using a fork or whisk, beat the mixture until smooth and frothy, creating a light egg wash. This mixture is crucial for helping the flour adhere to the shrimp, so ensure it’s well combined before you continue.

Step 5: Heat Oil
In a deep pan or heavy-bottomed skillet, pour in vegetable oil until it reaches about 2 inches deep. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). To confirm the temperature, you can use a kitchen thermometer or drop a small bit of the flour mixture in; it should sizzle immediately when the oil is ready.

Step 6: Coat Shrimp
Take each dry shrimp and first dredge it in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess. Then, dip it into the egg wash for an even coverage before returning it to the flour mixture for a second coat. Press gently to ensure the coating adheres well. Repeat this process until all shrimp are coated, ensuring you work efficiently to avoid letting the shrimp sit too long.

Step 7: Fry Shrimp
Carefully place the coated shrimp in the heated oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry in batches for about 2–3 minutes, or until they turn a lovely golden-brown color and are fully cooked through. Use a slotted spoon to remove the fried shrimp and drain them on paper towels, allowing excess oil to seep away.

Step 8: Toss in Sauce
In a large bowl, bring together the still-warm fried shrimp and the prepared hot honey sauce. Gently toss the shrimp in the sauce to ensure they are evenly coated, soaking in that sweet and spicy goodness. This step makes your Hot Honey Fried Shrimp simply irresistible as they absorb all those fabulous flavors.

Step 9: Serve
Once coated, plate your Hot Honey Fried Shrimp beautifully as a standout appetizer. Serve immediately, with any extra hot honey sauce on the side for dipping. This dish is sure to impress your guests and keep them coming back for more, combining crispy texture with bold flavors in every bite!

Make Ahead Options

These Hot Honey Fried Shrimp are a fantastic dish for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the shrimp and coat them up to 24 hours in advance; just dredge them in the flour mixture and dip them in the egg wash, then refrigerate them in a single layer on a baking sheet to prevent sticking. If you’d like to prepare the honey sauce, feel free to make it up to 3 days ahead. Simply store it in an airtight container in the fridge, reheating it gently before tossing with the shrimp. When you’re ready to serve, just fry the prepped shrimp straight from the fridge, tossing them in the warm sauce for restaurant-quality results with minimal effort!

What to Serve with Hot Honey Fried Shrimp

Elevate your dining experience with complementary sides that enhance the sweet and spicy flavors of your shrimp.

Crispy Coleslaw: The crunchy cabbage and creamy dressing provide a refreshing contrast to the shrimp’s heat, balancing the meal beautifully.
Garlic Butter Bread: Indulge in warm, toasty bread coated in garlic butter, ideal for soaking up any extra hot honey sauce while adding a comforting touch.
Spicy Dipping Sauce: Serve with a zesty ranch or a tangy blue cheese sauce to cool down the heat, enhancing the flavor profile of your Hot Honey Fried Shrimp.
Zucchini Fries: Lightly battered and baked, these crispy fries add a delightful crunch and a nutritious element, creating a well-rounded plate.

For an extra sweet ending, a fruit salad or a scoop of vanilla ice cream complements the spiciness with refreshing sweetness. Pair these sides for a memorable meal that keeps everyone coming back for more!

How to Store and Freeze Hot Honey Fried Shrimp

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To keep the shrimp somewhat crispy, reheat in an oven instead of a microwave.

Freezer: If you need to freeze, place cooked shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually for 1-2 hours, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crisp.

Quality Check: While Hot Honey Fried Shrimp can be stored, they are best when freshly made to savor that crispy texture.

Expert Tips for Hot Honey Fried Shrimp

• Pat Dry Thoroughly: Ensure the shrimp are completely dried before coating to achieve a crispy Hot Honey Fried Shrimp. Excess moisture can lead to sogginess.

• Watch the Oil Temp: Use a thermometer to maintain the oil temperature at 350°F. If it’s too cool, the shrimp will absorb oil and become greasy; too hot, and they’ll burn.

• Avoid Overcrowding: Fry in small batches to prevent the temperature from dropping, ensuring each shrimp gets that delicious, golden crunch.

• Double-Coat for Crunch: Don’t skip the second coating of flour after the egg wash. This step ensures a thicker, crunchier shell on your Hot Honey Fried Shrimp.

• Customize the Heat: Adjust the amount of cayenne and hot sauce in the recipe to suit your spice preference; a little tweaking can make a big difference!

Hot Honey Fried Shrimp Variations

Feel free to play around with this recipe to suit your taste buds and dietary needs!

Chicken Alternative: Swap shrimp for chicken pieces and follow the same coating and frying process for a different bite. Crispy chicken coated in sweet heat is sure to please!
Hot Sauce Variety: Experiment with different hot sauces, like Sriracha or Chipotle, to change up the flavor profile. Each brings a unique twist to the heat level.
Extra Spicy: Add a sprinkle of chili powder to the flour mixture for an extra kick. This variation will leave spice lovers grinning from ear to ear.
Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour for a delicious gluten-free version. They will still be crunchy and delightful!
Tropical Twist: Toss in some pineapple tidbits for a sweet tropical addition. The natural sweetness pairs wonderfully with the spicy sauce, creating a delightful contrast.
Crispy Veggies: For a vegetarian twist, coat and fry thin slices of zucchini or eggplant. They’ll take on that delicious crunch and complement the sauce beautifully.
Coconut Flavor: Incorporate shredded coconut into the flour mixture for a hint of tropical flavor. The coconut pairs beautifully with the hot honey sauce for an island feel.
Baked Version: For a healthier option, bake the coated shrimp at 400°F for 15-20 minutes until crispy instead of frying. Drizzle with the sauce for a lighter take!

As you get creative, don’t forget to check out these other delightful shrimp recipes, like Grilled Shrimp Bowl or Coconut Curry Shrimp, to liven up your seafood repertoire!

Hot Honey Fried Shrimp Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best shrimp for Hot Honey Fried Shrimp?
Absolutely! When selecting shrimp, look for large, firm, and translucent specimens that have a mild ocean scent. Avoid shrimp with dark spots or a strong odor, as this may indicate spoilage. If using frozen shrimp, ensure they are properly thawed and patted dry to achieve that perfect crunchy texture.

What’s the best way to store leftover Hot Honey Fried Shrimp?
To keep your Hot Honey Fried Shrimp fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Make sure to reheat them in an oven for the best results, as this helps retain their crispiness, unlike the microwave, which can make them soggy.

Can I freeze Hot Honey Fried Shrimp?
Absolutely! To freeze, spread the cooked shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer for 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer the shrimp to a freezer-safe bag, ensuring to remove as much air as possible. They can be stored for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy.

What can I do if my shrimp coating is soggy?
If you find your shrimp coating turning out soggy, ensure they were completely dried before coating. Additionally, check your oil temperature while frying; it should be maintained at around 350°F (175°C). Frying in small batches can also help keep the temperature stable, preventing the shrimp from absorbing excess oil.

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Very! If you or your guests have allergies, consider using gluten-free flour for coating. Also, be cautious with the hot sauce you choose, as many contain gluten or other allergens. If making for pets, remember that foods high in spices and sauces can upset their stomachs. When serving, suggest checking for any specific dietary needs ahead of time to ensure everyone can enjoy this delightful dish!