This Orange Chili Garlic Shrimp is a tasty mix of sweet and spicy flavors. The juicy shrimp cook fast, soaking up the rich orange sauce with a kick of garlic and chili.
Honestly, what’s better than shrimp that’s quick to make and packed with flavor? I love serving it over rice or noodles, and trust me, the sauce is perfect for dipping bread!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Use large shrimp for the best bite and flavor. If fresh shrimp isn’t available, frozen works well too! Just thaw properly before using. Not a shrimp fan? Try chicken or tofu for a different protein source!
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic gives the best flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can work, but the taste just won’t be the same. I love garlic, so I sometimes add a little more than the recipe calls for.
Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed orange juice makes the dish brighter. If you don’t have oranges, bottled juice in natural form is a fine alternative. I also love the addition of a splash of lime juice for a zesty twist!
Chilies: Adjust the type and amount of chili based on your heat preference! You can use jalapeños or even a pinch of red pepper flakes if fresh isn’t handy. No heat? Just skip the chili or use sweet bell peppers.
How Do I Cook Shrimp Perfectly?
Cooking shrimp is quick, but timing is key! Here’s how to get perfectly juicy shrimp every time:
- Always start with a hot pan to sear the shrimp quickly. Medium-high heat is best!
- Cook the shrimp for around 2 minutes on one side until it turns pink. Flip, and add the sauce mixture. This keeps them tender.
- Don’t overcook! Once they become opaque, they’re done. Shrimp cook fast, so keep a close eye.
Perfectly cooked shrimp should be plump and juicy, not rubbery. Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Orange Chili Garlic Shrimp
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off, as preferred)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red chili, thinly sliced (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 cup fresh orange juice (about 2 oranges)
- Zest of 1 orange
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar or lime juice
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for mild smoky flavor)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for extra heat)
- 2 scallions (green onions), chopped
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (toasted)
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped for garnish
- Orange slices, for garnish
- Cooked jasmine rice or noodles, to serve
Time Needed:
This delicious Orange Chili Garlic Shrimp recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and another 10 minutes to cook, totaling around 20 minutes. Quick and easy, perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the fresh orange juice, orange zest, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and smoked paprika. Set this flavorful mixture aside; it will be the star of your dish!
2. Heat the Pan:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. This is where the magic happens, so get it nice and hot!
3. Cook the Aromatics:
Add the minced garlic and sliced red chili to the skillet. Sauté these for about 30 seconds until they become fragrant, but be careful not to let the garlic burn—that can happen quickly!
4. Add the Shrimp:
Now, add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Season them with salt, pepper, and chili flakes if you want a little extra spice. Let them cook undisturbed for about 2 minutes.
5. Flip and Sauce:
Once the shrimp start turning pink, gently flip them over. Pour the orange sauce mixture over the shrimp, stirring everything together. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently until the shrimp are fully cooked and the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Finish Up:
Remove the skillet from the heat. Sprinkle the toasted sesame seeds, chopped scallions, and fresh chopped cilantro or parsley on top for a burst of flavor and color.
7. Serve:
Serve the shrimp hot over a bed of jasmine rice or noodles. Don’t forget the fresh orange slices and extra chopped scallions on top for garnish. They look beautiful and add extra flavor, too!
Now, dig in and enjoy the vibrant, tangy, and spicy flavors of your homemade Orange Chili Garlic Shrimp! Bon appétit!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. You can do this overnight in the fridge or quickly in a sealed bag submerged in cold water. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to remove extra moisture for optimal cooking.
How Do I Store Leftover Orange Chili Garlic Shrimp?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, taking care not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become rubbery.
Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
Yes, you can definitely adjust the spice level! Use less red chili or skip the chili flakes for a milder flavor. If you enjoy more heat, try adding a few extra slices of chili or even a dash of hot sauce when serving!
What Can I Substitute for Orange Juice?
If you don’t have fresh orange juice, bottled juice can work as a substitute as long as it’s pure and without added sugars. Alternatively, you can use a mix of other citrus juices like lemon or lime for a different flavor profile, but keep in mind that it will change the taste of the dish.