Hot Honey Fried Shrimp Recipe

If you dream about the perfect mix of crispy, juicy shrimp and addictively sweet-spicy glaze, look no further than Hot Honey Fried Shrimp. In every golden bite, there’s that satisfying crunch, a whisper of heat, and a drizzle of sticky honey that hits all the right sweet and savory notes. Hot Honey Fried Shrimp is my go-to when I want a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to whip up and utterly irresistible, whether it’s for a fun party, a cozy family dinner, or those days when only shrimp will do!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple ingredients make this dish a star, but don’t be fooled—each one plays a crucial role. Fresh shrimp give you that juicy bite, while the pantry staples and the iconic hot honey glaze bring unbeatable crunch and crave-worthy flavor. Here’s what you’ll need for Hot Honey Fried Shrimp, with some tips for best results:

• Shrimp: Fresh, large shrimp give the crispiest texture and juiciest flavor; peeled and deveined for easy prep.
• Buttermilk: This tangy marinade tenderizes the shrimp and helps the coating stick for extra crunch.
• All-purpose flour: The backbone of your crust, it ensures the shrimp fry up to a beautiful golden brown.
• Cornstarch: Adds extra crispiness to the coating—don’t skip it for that restaurant-style crunch.
• Salt and pepper: Simple but absolutely necessary for seasoning every bite.
• Paprika: Gives color and a subtle smoky undertone.
• Garlic powder: A punch of savory flavor in every bite.
• Egg: Helps bind the breading for an even, sturdy coating.
• Hot sauce: Adds zing to the marinade and layers of flavor.
• Oil (for frying): Use a neutral oil like canola or peanut for the crispiest results.
• Honey: The sweet star of the glaze; local varieties add extra warmth and depth.
• Red pepper flakes: The source of that irresistible heat in the hot honey sauce.
• Lemon juice: Brightens the glaze and brings balance to the dish.

How to Make Hot Honey Fried Shrimp

Step 1: Marinate the Shrimp

Start by tossing the peeled and deveined shrimp in the buttermilk, hot sauce, salt, and pepper. Let them soak for 15–20 minutes in the refrigerator. This simple step ensures each shrimp is flavorful, juicy, and beautifully seasoned all the way through—plus, it helps the breading cling for that signature crunch.

Step 2: Prepare the Breading Station

While the shrimp marinate, set up a breading station with one bowl for the whisked egg, and another bowl for your seasoned flour mixture (all-purpose flour, cornstarch, paprika, and garlic powder). Having everything organized beforehand makes coating the shrimp a breeze and ensures an even, crispy coating for every piece.

Step 3: Bread the Shrimp

Remove the shrimp from the buttermilk, shake off any excess, and dip each one first into the egg, then dredge thoroughly in the flour mixture. Press the coating on well so you get that glorious, shatteringly crisp exterior once they hit the oil.

Step 4: Fry the Shrimp

Fill a deep skillet with 1–2 inches of oil and heat to 350°F (175°C). Fry the coated shrimp in batches—don’t crowd the pan—for 2–3 minutes per side, or until golden and crisp. Drain on a wire rack or paper towels to keep them crunchy while you work through the rest.

Step 5: Make the Hot Honey Sauce

While the shrimp cool slightly, combine honey, red pepper flakes, and lemon juice in a small saucepan. Gently heat (do not boil) for a few minutes so the honey gets infused with that lovely hint of heat. Taste to adjust the spice level, then set aside—your irresistible hot honey glaze is ready.

Step 6: Toss & Serve

Right before serving, drizzle or toss the fried shrimp with the warm hot honey sauce. Each piece should glisten with a glossy, fiery-sweet coating—Hot Honey Fried Shrimp perfection that’s best enjoyed hot and fresh!

How to Serve Hot Honey Fried Shrimp

Garnishes

A final flourish of garnishes takes Hot Honey Fried Shrimp over the top. Try a scatter of finely chopped chives or fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness, or sprinkle some extra red pepper flakes for those who love it spicy. A little squeeze of lemon over the top wakes up all the flavors, adding both brightness and irresistible aroma.

Side Dishes

This punchy shrimp dish pairs beautifully with so many sides. Keep it classic with fluffy jasmine rice or a buttery biscuit to soak up the sticky glaze. Light, crunchy coleslaw or a simple cucumber salad balances the heat, or whip up some sweet corn on the cob for ultimate summer vibes. Don’t forget crisp potato wedges or fries for an extra treat!

Creative Ways to Present

Get playful! Heap your Hot Honey Fried Shrimp onto slider buns with pickles for a spicy sandwich, or skewer them with pineapple for a colorful party platter. Pile them over a salad for a zesty lunch, or serve in lettuce cups for a lighter appetizer. However you serve it, this dish never fails to steal the show.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, pop the cooled Hot Honey Fried Shrimp in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. They’ll stay tasty for up to 2 days—though the coating may soften, the flavor only gets better as the glaze soaks in a bit more.

Freezing

You can freeze Hot Honey Fried Shrimp! Let them cool completely, then lay them in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a sealed freezer bag. This keeps them from sticking together and makes it easier to grab just what you need.

Reheating

To keep that crunch, reheat the shrimp in a 400°F (205°C) oven or an air fryer until hot and crispy—about 5–8 minutes. Microwaving isn’t ideal since it softens the coating, but a quick blast at high heat in the oven brings those shrimp right back to life.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for Hot Honey Fried Shrimp?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw, peel, and pat them dry before marinating. Removing excess moisture is key for a crispy coating.

How spicy is this dish?

The heat is very customizable. Use more or less red pepper flakes to control the spiciness, or add your favorite hot sauce to the honey glaze for an extra punch.

Can I bake instead of fry?

Yes, you can! Arrange the breaded shrimp on a wire rack set over a baking sheet, mist with oil, and bake at 425°F (218°C) until crisp, flipping halfway through. You’ll miss a bit of that classic fried crunch, but it’s a lighter alternative.

What’s the best oil for frying Hot Honey Fried Shrimp?

Stick to a neutral, high smoke-point oil like canola, vegetable, or peanut oil. Olive oil isn’t recommended here, as it can burn at high temps and affect the flavor.

Can I make the hot honey sauce in advance?

Definitely! The hot honey sauce can be made up to a week ahead and stored in the fridge. Just warm it gently before tossing with the shrimp.

Final Thoughts

Hot Honey Fried Shrimp is so much more than the sum of its parts—each bite is an irresistible balance of crispiness, warmth, and sticky sweetness! Get ready to watch them disappear at every gathering, and don’t be surprised if they become your new favorite way to enjoy shrimp. Give them a try and prepare for a seriously delicious (and seriously fun) kitchen adventure!

Print