Spicy Shrimp Stir Fry Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a meal that packs a punch of flavor without hours in the kitchen, Spicy Shrimp Stir Fry is going to rock your dinner routine! Tender, juicy shrimp pair up with a medley of colorful, crisp veggies, all tossed in a bold, garlicky sauce that’s equal parts fiery, sweet, and savory. Whether you’re whipping up something crave-worthy after work or trying to impress guests with minimal effort, this Spicy Shrimp Stir Fry proves once again that a weeknight dinner can absolutely bring the heat and excitement.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be amazed at how just a handful of fresh ingredients can create such an explosion of flavors and textures. Each star in this lineup brings its own character—crunch, freshness, a punch of protein, or a pop of color—that makes this dish as beautiful as it is delicious.

• Shrimp (1 lb, peeled and deveined): Choose medium to large shrimp for the juiciest, most satisfying bites; peeling and deveining ensures the best texture.
• Sesame oil (1 tablespoon): This oil gives your stir fry a deep, nutty aroma you won’t want to skip.
• Broccoli florets (2 cups): Adds vibrant green color and a satisfying crunch that soaks up sauce perfectly.
• Red bell pepper (1, sliced): Brings sweetness and a pop of color to every forkful—don’t skimp!
• Snap peas (1/2 cup): Their fresh, crisp bite makes every mouthful more exciting.
• Garlic cloves (2, minced): Freshly minced garlic creates bold, aromatic undertones you’ll taste in every bite.
• Soy sauce (1 tablespoon): This is your classic umami booster; use low-sodium if you prefer.
• Sriracha or chili garlic sauce (1 tablespoon): Adjust the amount for your heat preference—this is where the spicy magic happens.
• Honey (1 tablespoon): Balances out the heat with subtle sweetness, making the whole dish sing.
• Cornstarch mixed with water (1 teaspoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water): This simple slurry transforms the sauce into glossy, cling-to-your-shrimp perfection.
• Cooked rice (for serving): Your fluffy, comforting base that soaks up every last drop of sauce.

How to Make Spicy Shrimp Stir Fry

Step 1: Sear the Shrimp

Start by heating up your sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat. When the oil is shimmering, toss in the shrimp and cook them for 2 to 3 minutes, flipping once, until they’re plump and just turn pink. Don’t overcook! Remove them right away and set aside so they stay tender and juicy when you finish the dish.

Step 2: Stir Fry the Vegetables

With that gorgeous shrimp flavor lingering in the pan, add your broccoli, bell pepper, and snap peas. Stir-fry them for 3 to 4 minutes—just until the veggies are bright, crisp-tender, and a little bit charred on the edges. This quick cooking locks in vibrant colors and satisfying crunch.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

Turn the heat down to medium and stir in your minced garlic, letting it sizzle just until fragrant. Pour in the soy sauce, sriracha (or chili garlic sauce), and honey right into the pan. Whisk the cornstarch and water together and drizzle it into the mix. As you stir, the sauce will begin to thicken—making every veggie shine and prepping the pan for the shrimp’s comeback.

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Slide the cooked shrimp back into the skillet, tossing everything so each piece is beautifully coated with that glossy, spicy, and aromatic sauce. Let it cook for just 1 to 2 minutes so the shrimp heat through and soak up those bold flavors. You’ll know it’s ready when the sauce is thick enough to coat the back of a spoon and everything looks vibrant and irresistible.

Step 5: Serve It Up Hot

Spoon your Spicy Shrimp Stir Fry over bowls of warm cooked rice, and serve immediately while it’s at its sauciest, steamiest best. The aroma alone will draw everyone straight to the table!

How to Serve Spicy Shrimp Stir Fry

Garnishes

For a finishing touch that adds flair and flavor, sprinkle your stir fry with toasted sesame seeds, fresh chopped cilantro, or thinly sliced green onions. A squeeze of fresh lime can brighten everything up and cut through the heat, making each bite pop. Don’t forget a little extra drizzle of sriracha if you love things really spicy!

Side Dishes

A bowl of Spicy Shrimp Stir Fry is fabulous on its own over steamed rice, but it shines even more paired with sides like fluffy jasmine rice, nutty brown rice, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb twist. Lightly dressed cucumber salad or quick-pickled carrots add a cooling contrast to the heat.

Creative Ways to Present

Take your stir fry up a notch by serving it in lettuce cups for a fun, hand-held meal. Or, plate it in a large shallow bowl with a nest of noodles instead of rice. For entertaining, serve the Spicy Shrimp Stir Fry family-style on a colorful platter sprinkled with herbs so everyone can help themselves.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers (lucky you!), let the stir fry cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerated, it keeps beautifully for up to 2 days—the sauce will actually deepen in flavor overnight, making leftovers even tastier.

Freezing

While you technically can freeze Spicy Shrimp Stir Fry, the texture of shrimp and the crisp veggies is best enjoyed fresh. If you choose to freeze, cool the dish, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 1 month. Reheat gently for best results, knowing the veggies may soften a bit.

Reheating

To reheat, warm your Spicy Shrimp Stir Fry in a skillet over medium heat until just heated through. Add a splash of water if the sauce has thickened too much, and stir carefully to keep the shrimp juicy and the veggies tasting bright.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw your frozen shrimp completely and pat them dry with paper towels before cooking. This helps them sear properly and keeps the texture snappy.

Is there a way to make this Spicy Shrimp Stir Fry less spicy?

Of course! You can simply reduce the amount of sriracha or chili garlic sauce, or even use a mild chili sauce instead. Taste as you go to get the spice level just right for your preferences.

What other vegetables can I use in this recipe?

The beauty of stir fry is its flexibility. Try snow peas, carrots, baby corn, zucchini, or mushrooms—they all taste amazing in the savory-spicy sauce. Use what you have on hand or what’s in season.

Can I substitute chicken or tofu for the shrimp?

Yes! This recipe is super adaptable. Swap in bite-sized chicken pieces or cubed tofu—just adjust cooking times as needed, ensuring they’re cooked through before tossing back into the sauce.

How do I make this Spicy Shrimp Stir Fry gluten-free?

Simply use tamari or coconut aminos in place of soy sauce to keep the dish gluten-free. Double-check that your sriracha or chili garlic sauce doesn’t contain any wheat-based ingredients as well.

Final Thoughts

Whether you need a quick weeknight fix or a crowd-pleaser for your next gathering, Spicy Shrimp Stir Fry is guaranteed to add vibrant flavor and just the right amount of kick to your table. Give it a try, have fun with the garnishes, and don’t be surprised if it becomes one of your all-time favorite dishes!