Crispy Sesame Shrimp with Honey-Soy Sauce

This crispy sesame shrimp is coated in a sweet and savory Asian-style sauce and makes an ideal weeknight dinner when served over rice. The crunchy breaded shrimp soak up a glossy honey-soy glaze, finished with sesame seeds and green onions for texture and bright flavor.

This recipe adapts easily to what you have on hand: use frozen breaded shrimp for convenience, or substitute sautéed shrimp or cooked chicken for a different texture. The sauce comes together quickly on the stove while the shrimp bake, so dinner is ready in about 25 minutes.

Sesame Shrimp Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make the recipe:

• 16 ounces frozen breaded shrimp
• 1 teaspoon vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• 3 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
• 2 tablespoons sliced green onions
• Cooking spray

How Do You Make Sesame Shrimp?

Preheat the oven and prepare a rimmed sheet pan with cooking spray. Arrange the frozen breaded shrimp in a single layer and bake according to the package directions until they are golden brown and crispy.

While the shrimp cook, make the sauce: whisk together the honey, soy sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, rice vinegar and cornstarch in a small bowl until smooth. Heat the vegetable oil in a small skillet over medium heat, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the honey mixture and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir constantly and cook for 3–4 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.

When the shrimp are cooked, transfer them to a large bowl and pour the warm sauce over them. Gently toss to coat so the shrimp remain as crisp as possible. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and sliced green onions, then serve right away over steamed rice for the best texture.

Tips For The Perfect Shrimp

• Frozen breaded shrimp are a time-saver and crisp nicely in the oven. If you prefer, use butterfly shrimp or homemade fried shrimp for a more traditional texture.
• Choose low-sodium soy sauce to avoid an overly salty glaze, since the breading and shrimp often contain salt already.
• Serve immediately. The crunchy coating will soften as it absorbs the sauce, so plate and eat promptly for the best contrast between crispy and saucy.
• For a complete meal, serve over steamed rice and add a simple vegetable side such as steamed broccoli, an Asian cucumber salad, or quick stir-fried snap peas.
• You can make the sauce up to 48 hours in advance and refrigerate in an airtight container; reheat gently before tossing with the shrimp.

Flavor Variations

This sesame shrimp recipe is very adaptable. Try one of these simple changes to suit your taste:

• Protein: Use sautéed or grilled shrimp instead of breaded shrimp, or substitute cooked cubed chicken for a non-seafood option.
• Sauce add-ins: Stir in grated fresh ginger for brightness, or add sriracha or chili flakes for heat.
• Vegetables: Toss in lightly cooked broccoli, julienned carrots, snap peas, cabbage or sliced mushrooms to make the dish more substantial and colorful.

Sesame shrimp is a dependable, takeout-style meal that comes together quickly and satisfies dinner cravings on busy nights.

More Great Shrimp Recipes

Buffalo Shrimp — 25 mins

Honey Garlic Shrimp Stir Fry — 20 mins

Shrimp Tempura Roll — 40 mins

Sweet and Sour Shrimp — 35 mins

Shrimp Pesto Pasta — 20 mins