This zesty chili lime shrimp recipe is a perfect balance of smoky, tangy, and slightly sweet flavors. Quick and easy to prepare, it makes for a versatile dish that pairs well with rice, tacos, or salads. Whether grilled or pan-seared, this dish delivers bold flavors in just minutes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy – Ready in under 20 minutes
- Versatile – Serve it with rice, tacos, or salads
- Packed with flavor – A perfect blend of citrus, spice, and smoky notes
- Healthy and light – High in protein and naturally gluten-free
- Great for meal prep – Delicious warm or cold
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Shrimp:
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- (Optional) ½ cup all-purpose flour or cornstarch (for a crispy coating)
For the Chili Lime Sauce:
- ¼ cup lime juice
- 3 tablespoons olive oil (or 2 tablespoons sesame oil)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon chili powder (or 1 teaspoon chili flakes)
- (Optional) ½ teaspoon cumin or 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- (Optional) 1 tablespoon honey or ¼ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
Step 1: Prep the Shrimp
- If a crispy texture is desired, toss the shrimp in a light coating of flour or cornstarch.
- (Optional) Marinate the shrimp in the chili lime sauce for 30 minutes for enhanced flavor.
Step 2: Make the Chili Lime Sauce
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, garlic, chili powder, salt, pepper, and optional seasonings.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
Grilling Method:
- Preheat the grill to high heat.
- Thread shrimp onto skewers.
- Grill for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
Pan-Searing Method:
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and add oil.
- Cook shrimp in a single layer for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
Step 4: Finish & Serve
- Toss the cooked shrimp in the chili lime sauce until well coated.
- Serve immediately with fresh cilantro and lime wedges.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 6 minutes
- Total Time: 16 minutes
Variations
- Spicier Version: Add extra chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
- Garlic Butter Chili Lime Shrimp: Swap olive oil for melted butter for a richer taste.
- Coconut Lime Shrimp: Replace olive oil with coconut oil and add shredded coconut for a tropical twist.
- Vegan Alternative: Use tofu or cauliflower instead of shrimp and follow the same marinade and cooking steps.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze cooked shrimp in a sealed container for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat or microwave for 30 seconds to avoid overcooking.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.
How do I prevent shrimp from becoming rubbery?
Avoid overcooking; shrimp should be pink and opaque but not curled tightly.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, marinate the shrimp in the sauce for up to 12 hours before cooking.
What side dishes go well with this shrimp?
Serve with rice, quinoa, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Can I use bottled lime juice?
Fresh lime juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled lime juice can be used in a pinch.
What’s the best way to grill shrimp without skewers?
Use a grill basket or a sheet of aluminum foil to prevent shrimp from falling through the grates.
Can I bake the shrimp instead?
Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
What kind of shrimp works best for this recipe?
Large or jumbo shrimp work best to prevent overcooking.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Yes, bell peppers, zucchini, or onions pair well with the flavors.
How can I make this dish keto-friendly?
Omit the optional honey or brown sugar and serve with cauliflower rice.
Conclusion
Zesty Chili Lime Shrimp is a quick, flavorful, and versatile dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Whether grilled or pan-seared, this recipe delivers bold, tangy, and smoky flavors in every bite. Try it today and serve it with your favorite sides for a satisfying and effortless meal!
Print
Zesty Chili Lime Shrimp
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Zesty Chili Lime Shrimp is a perfect blend of smoky, tangy, and slightly sweet flavors! Quick to make in under 15 minutes, this dish is incredibly versatile—serve it over rice, in tacos, or on a fresh salad. With bold chili lime seasoning, this shrimp recipe is an easy go-to for a healthy and delicious weeknight meal.
Ingredients
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour or cornstarch (optional, for a crispy coating)
For the Chili Lime Sauce:
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
- 3 tbsp olive oil (or 2 tbsp sesame oil)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp chili powder (or 1 tsp chili flakes)
- 1/2 tsp cumin or 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp honey or 1/4 cup brown sugar (optional, for sweetness)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Prep the Shrimp:
- (Optional) Toss shrimp in flour or cornstarch for a light crispy texture.
- (Optional) Marinate shrimp in half of the chili lime sauce for 30 minutes for extra flavor.
2. Make the Chili Lime Sauce:
- In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, garlic, chili powder, salt, pepper, and optional seasonings.
3. Cook the Shrimp:
Grilling Method:
- Preheat grill to high heat.
- Thread shrimp onto skewers.
- Grill for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
Pan-Searing Method:
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and add oil.
- Cook shrimp in a single layer for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
4. Finish & Serve:
- Toss the cooked shrimp in the remaining chili lime sauce until well coated.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges.
Notes
- Avoid overcooking shrimp; they should be just pink and opaque.
- Adjust spice levels with different chili varieties or extra chili flakes.
- Use sustainably sourced shrimp for an eco-friendly option.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Seafood
- Method: Grilling, Pan-Searing
- Cuisine: Mexican, Latin American
