How to Make Grilled Sriracha Shrimp

Did you know Americans eat more than 1.4 billion pounds of shrimp every year? It’s no surprise since shrimp is quick to cook, packed with protein, and incredibly versatile. But if you're craving bold flavor with a spicy kick, grilled Sriracha shrimp is where it’s at. This recipe brings smoky char from the grill, tangy brightness from lime, and just the right amount of heat thanks to Sriracha sauce. So if you're prepping for a summer cookout or a quick weeknight dinner, this spicy shrimp dish is your ticket to flavor town.

How to Make Grilled Sriracha Shrimp

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 10 minutes

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1½ pounds large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 3 tablespoons Sriracha sauce
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 tablespoon lime juice (use a lemon squeezer for best results)
• 3 garlic cloves, minced (use a garlic rocker)
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
•  ½ teaspoon sea salt
• 1 jalapeño, thinly sliced (optional for garnish)
• Fresh chopped cilantro for garnish
• Lime wedges for serving
• Bamboo skewers (soak in water for 30 minutes)

Instructions

Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, combine Sriracha sauce, olive oil, honey, lime juice, garlic, smoked paprika, and sea salt. Whisk until fully blended using the balloon whisk.

Step 2: Add the shrimp to the bowl and toss to coat. Cover and marinate for 15–30 minutes in the refrigerator.

Step 3: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water to prevent burning. Thread marinated shrimp onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each shrimp.

Step 4: Preheat your grill (or grill pan) to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates or pan to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Place the shrimp skewers on the grill and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until the shrimp turn pink and slightly charred.

Step 6: Transfer to a serving plate, squeeze fresh lime juice over the top using your lemon squeezer, and garnish with jalapeño slices and chopped cilantro.

Tips & Twists to Try on Your Grilled Sriracha Shrimp

• Sweet pineapple balances the heat of the shrimp beautifully. Thread chunks between the shrimp for a tropical twist.
• Want it spicier? Use a Jalapeño Corer to clean out peppers quickly and dice them finely into the marinade.
• Melt butter and stir in minced garlic and parsley. Drizzle over the grilled shrimp for extra richness.
• If you're short on time, use a vacuum marinator to infuse flavor in just 10 minutes.
• This method keeps moisture in and adds extra smoky flavor. Just peel before eating.
• Chop the grilled shrimp and stuff into warm tortillas with avocado, cabbage slaw, and a drizzle of lime crema.

Health Benefits vs. Fried Shrimp

Grilled Sriracha shrimp is significantly healthier than its battered-and-fried cousin. Grilling eliminates the need for extra oils and breading, reducing both calorie and fat content. Shrimp is also rich in omega-3 fatty acids, lean protein, and selenium, which support thyroid function. The use of fresh garlic and lime juice adds antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits. Meanwhile, Sriracha brings flavor without overwhelming sodium or fat. In short, you're getting bold flavor without compromising your clean eating goals.

Make Your Own Grilled Sriracha Shrimp Today

This recipe is fast, flavorful, and downright addictive. If you're hosting a backyard BBQ or spicing up your weeknight dinner, grilled Sriracha shrimp is a crowd-pleaser. With the right tools and high-quality ingredients, you’ll be serving this dish like a pro in no time. Grab your skewers, fire up the grill, and let’s bring the heat.

Other Kitchen Tools You Need

• Silicone Basting Brush – For brushing extra marinade on shrimp mid-grill.
• Mixing Bowls – Ideal for marinating and tossing.

Shop all these tools and more at Zulay Kitchen to level up your grilling game.

Take Your Recipe to the Next Level

Elevate your grilled shrimp with bold seasonings and gourmet salts from our shop. We recommend:

• Red Hot Sea Salts Collection: Add an extra layer of smoky heat with these fiery sea salts. Great for seasoning after grilling.
• Craft BBQ Collection: Use these blends in your marinade to deepen the flavor profile with notes of chili, smoke, and garlic.
• Garlic Lovers Collection: Enhance the savory depth of the dish with gourmet garlic blends that beat raw garlic alone.
• Gourmet Grilling Salts Collection: Perfect for finishing off your grilled shrimp or for use on the side veggies.

Browse the full range of premium spices and salts at Zulay Kitchen Ingredients and bring restaurant-level flavor to your home kitchen.

Frequently Asked Questions About This Recipe

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, just make sure to thaw them completely before marinating. Run cold water over the shrimp in a colander for 10–15 minutes, or leave them overnight in the fridge. Pat them dry with a paper towel before tossing them in the marinade to ensure they absorb all that flavor. Frozen shrimp can be just as tasty if properly prepped and grilled at the right temperature.

Is there a non-spicy version of this recipe?

Absolutely. If you're sensitive to heat, replace the Sriracha with a mild chili sauce or a mix of ketchup and a dash of smoked paprika for that smoky-sweet flavor without the burn. You can also reduce the garlic and skip the jalapeño garnish. The shrimp still get plenty of flavor from lime juice, honey, and grilling, making this version family-friendly and kid-approved.

How do I know when shrimp are done cooking?

Shrimp cook very quickly, usually within 4–6 minutes total. You'll know they’re done when they turn opaque and pink with a slight char on the edges. Overcooking makes them rubbery, so keep an eye on them. Using a digital meat thermometer is helpful: shrimp are fully cooked at 120–130°F. Grilling on high heat sears the outside fast while keeping the interior juicy.

What side dishes go well with grilled Sriracha shrimp?

Great pairings include coconut rice, grilled corn, avocado salad, or a cool cucumber slaw to balance the heat. You could also serve them taco-style with tortillas and crema, or over quinoa for a protein-packed bowl. If you're hosting a BBQ, add watermelon feta salad or mango salsa for a summery touch. These sides keep the meal vibrant, balanced, and exciting.

Can I make this recipe in the oven or air fryer?

Yes, if you don’t have a grill, use a broiler in your oven. Place shrimp on a lined baking sheet and broil 2–3 minutes per side. For air frying, set your air fryer to 400°F and cook for 5–7 minutes, shaking halfway through. You won't get the same char, but the shrimp will still have great texture and flavor. Don’t skip the lime finish since it adds that fresh zing.

Can I prepare the shrimp ahead of time?

Yes, but don’t marinate the shrimp too far in advance. 30 minutes to 1 hour max is ideal to avoid a mushy texture from the acid in lime juice. You can prep the marinade, skewer the shrimp, and refrigerate everything separately a few hours before cooking. Just bring the shrimp to room temp for about 10–15 minutes before grilling to guarantee even cooking.

What wine or drinks pair best with this dish?

Grilled Sriracha shrimp pairs beautifully with crisp whites like Sauvignon Blanc or Riesling. For cocktails, try a Mint Mojito by Craftmix or a Passionfruit Paloma for tropical balance. The fruity sweetness offsets the heat while staying refreshing. If you want to go bold, a cold craft beer with citrus notes or an IPA works great too.