If you are looking for the ultimate game-day snack, this Sweet Chili Fried Shrimp recipe is the perfect addition to your Super Bowl appetizer lineup. Crispy, golden-brown shrimp tossed in a flavorful sweet chili sauce make for an irresistible combination of sweet, spicy, and crunchy textures. Whether you are a fan of Red Lobster Sweet Chili Shrimp Recipe or simply love Sweet Chilli Shrimp, this dish will impress your guests and leave them craving more.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe takes less than 30 minutes from start to finish, making it a hassle-free option for game-day preparation.
- Crowd-Pleaser: The perfect balance of sweet and spicy fried shrimp is loved by seafood enthusiasts and casual snackers alike.
- Restaurant-Quality at Home: Inspired by Red Lobster Sweet Chili Shrimp Recipe, you can now make your favorite appetizer without the hefty restaurant bill.
- Versatile: Serve as an appetizer, over rice, or even in tacos for a delicious meal.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: While it’s great for the Super Bowl, this dish is also perfect for parties, family dinners, and holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup buttermilk (for marination)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra spice)
- 1 large egg
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Sweet Chili Sauce:
- 1/2 cup Thai sweet chili sauce
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp sriracha (optional, for extra heat)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tsp grated ginger
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Garnish:
- Chopped green onions
- Sesame seeds
- Lime wedges
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Shrimp
- In a bowl, add the peeled and deveined shrimp and pour the buttermilk over them. Let them soak for about 15 minutes. This helps tenderize the shrimp and allows the coating to adhere better.
Step 2: Prepare the Breading
- In a separate bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper.
- In another bowl, beat the egg.
Step 3: Coat the Shrimp
- Remove the shrimp from the buttermilk, shaking off excess liquid.
- Dip each shrimp into the beaten egg, then dredge it in the flour mixture, ensuring it is evenly coated.
- Place the coated shrimp on a plate and let it rest for 5 minutes to help the breading set.
Step 4: Fry the Shrimp
- In a deep pan or fryer, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the shrimp in batches, cooking for about 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
Step 5: Make the Sweet Chili Sauce
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine sweet chili sauce, honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sriracha, minced garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes.
- Stir well and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 6: Toss and Serve
- Place the fried shrimp in a large bowl and drizzle the sweet chili sauce over them. Toss gently to coat evenly.
- Garnish with chopped green onions, sesame seeds, and a squeeze of lime.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Sweet Chili Fried Shrimp
- Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp give the best flavor and texture. If using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw and pat dry before cooking.
- Cornstarch for Extra Crispiness: Adding cornstarch to the breading mixture results in a light and crispy coating.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Fryer: Fry shrimp in small batches to maintain the right oil temperature and ensure they cook evenly.
- Customize the Heat: Adjust the spice level by adding more or less cayenne pepper, sriracha, or red pepper flakes.
- Double the Sauce: If you love extra sauce, consider doubling the sweet chili sauce ingredients so you have plenty for dipping.
Serving Suggestions
- As a Game-Day Snack: Serve in a bowl with toothpicks for easy grabbing.
- Over Rice: Turn it into a meal by serving over steamed jasmine or fried rice.
- In Tacos: Make spicy shrimp tacos by adding slaw, avocado, and a drizzle of the sweet chili sauce.
- With a Dip: Serve with extra sweet chili sauce or a side of spicy mayo.
Variations to Try
Sweet Chili Prawns
If you prefer prawns over shrimp, simply substitute large prawns for shrimp in this recipe. The flavors work just as well, making for a delightful twist on the dish.
Baked Sweet Chili Shrimp
For a healthier alternative, bake the coated shrimp at 400°F (200°C) for about 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Air Fryer Sweet Chili Shrimp
If you want a crispy texture with less oil, air-fry the shrimp at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
Why This Recipe is a Super Bowl Favorite
- Perfect for Sharing: These bite-sized delights are easy to serve and eat while watching the big game.
- Sweet and Spicy Balance: The combination of flavors makes it appealing to a wide range of taste preferences.
- Pairs Well with Drinks: Whether you’re enjoying beer, cocktails, or non-alcoholic beverages, this appetizer complements all kinds of drinks.
- Easy to Double: This recipe can be easily scaled up to serve a larger crowd.
What to Serve with Sweet Chili Fried Shrimp
- Spicy Popcorn: A crunchy, spicy snack to pair with the shrimp.
- Coleslaw: A refreshing, tangy slaw to balance the spice.
- Garlic Bread: Buttery, garlicky bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
- French Fries or Onion Rings: Classic sides that pair well with fried shrimp.
- Crispy Wontons: Another crunchy side dish that complements the shrimp’s flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Sweet Chili Fried Shrimp recipe is guaranteed to be a crowd favorite at your Super Bowl party. Whether you’re looking for a copycat version of the Red Lobster Sweet Chili Shrimp Recipe or simply a sweet and spicy fried shrimp dish, this recipe has everything you need. Quick to prepare, bursting with flavor, and absolutely delicious—what more could you ask for in a Superbowl food appetizer?
Give it a try, and watch it disappear within minutes! 🏈🍤
