This Orange Chili Garlic Shrimp is a bright and zesty dish that packs a punch! The fresh flavors of orange juice, spicy chili, and roasted garlic come together to make shrimp exciting and delicious.
I love how quick this recipe is! Just toss the shrimp in the bold sauce, let them sizzle, and you have a tasty meal in no time. Perfect over rice or simply on its own! 🍤
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Larger shrimp, like jumbo or extra-large, work nicely for this recipe. If you’re looking for a budget option, frozen shrimp are a great choice. Just make sure to thaw them properly before cooking.
Garlic: Fresh garlic stays true to the dish’s flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can work, but fresh is always best for that robust taste.
Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed orange juice brings brightness. If you don’t have fresh oranges, bottled juice can be used in a pinch. Just watch out for added sugars!
Chili: A fresh red chili adds heat and a pop of color. If you prefer less spice, you can use a bell pepper for sweetness instead.
Honey or Brown Sugar: I lean towards honey for its smooth sweetness, but you can use maple syrup or agave if you want a vegan option.
How Do You Cook Shrimp Perfectly Without Overdoing It?
Cooking shrimp takes just a few minutes, so timing is key. Here’s how to get that perfect texture:
- Heat your skillet well before adding shrimp. A hot pan helps to sear and lock in flavors.
- Cook shrimp until they turn pink and opaque. Usually, this takes about 2-3 minutes per side, depending on their size.
- Remove them from heat promptly when they are done. Overcooked shrimp become rubbery—a quick flip and sauce addition can keep them juicy!
Follow these steps, and you’ll have shrimp that are just right! Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Orange Chili Garlic Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off)
For the Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil or olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 small red chili, finely sliced (or 1 tsp red chili flakes)
- 1/2 cup fresh orange juice (about 1-2 oranges)
- Zest of 1 orange
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
For the Toppings:
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Cooked white rice, for serving
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 10 minutes of cooking time, totaling around 20 minutes. It’s a quick and flavorful meal perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sauce:
Start by whisking together the fresh orange juice, orange zest, soy sauce, and honey (or brown sugar) in a small bowl. Stir until well combined and set this delicious mixture aside. It’s going to pack a flavor punch!
2. Heat Up That Skillet:
In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Make sure it’s hot enough before moving on to the next step. This will give your shrimp a nice sear!
3. Add Garlic and Chili:
Once the oil is hot, toss in the minced garlic and sliced chili (or red chili flakes). Sauté them for about 30 seconds to 1 minute until they become fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic—it should be golden, not brown!
4. Cook the Shrimp:
Now, add in your shrimp and season them lightly with salt and pepper. Cook for about 2 minutes on one side, then flip them over to the other side for another minute or two until they turn pink and opaque.
5. Pour in the Sauce:
Once the shrimp are almost cooked, pour the orange sauce mixture over them. Stir gently to coat all the shrimp evenly with that zesty goodness. Let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. The sauce should thicken slightly and the shrimp should be perfectly cooked.
6. Add Final Touches:
Stir in the sliced green onions and sesame seeds, letting them cook in for another 30 seconds. This adds a nice crunch and flavor!
7. Serve:
Remove the skillet from heat and garnish your dish with fresh cilantro or parsley. Serve your Orange Chili Garlic Shrimp over a bed of cooked white rice. Enjoy this vibrant and flavorful meal that balances sweet and spicy perfectly!
Hope you love this recipe as much as I do! Happy cooking!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp properly before cooking. You can thaw them overnight in the fridge or place them in a sealed plastic bag and submerge in cold water for about 30 minutes. Pat them dry before cooking for the best results!
Can I Substitute the Orange Juice?
Yes, if you don’t have fresh oranges, you can use bottled orange juice. Just make sure it’s 100% juice without added sugars for the best flavor. Alternatively, you could use a mixture of lemon and lime juice for a citrusy kick!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to help retain moisture.
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Definitely! If you like more heat, feel free to add extra sliced chili or more chili flakes. You can also try incorporating a dash of hot sauce or some sriracha into the sauce mix for an extra kick!