20 Minute Honey Garlic Shrimp & Rice Bowl

Name: 20 Minute Honey Garlic Shrimp & Rice Bowl
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; ¼ cup honey; ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated; 1 tbsp olive oil; 2 cups cooked white or brown rice; Optional: 1 tsp cornstarch (for thickening), 1 tbsp water

Published: August 24, 2025

by Olivia

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: This meal is ready in just 20 minutes, making it ideal for hectic weeknights.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of honey and garlic creates a rich sauce that elevates the shrimp to new heights.
Versatile Dish: Easily customize with your favorite vegetables or substitute proteins for a unique twist.
Minimal Cleanup: With just one pan needed for cooking the shrimp, cleanup is a breeze.
Family-Friendly: This dish appeals to all ages with its tasty flavors and comforting ingredients.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience seamless, gather these essential tools before starting your 20 Minute Honey Garlic Shrimp & Rice Bowl. Having everything ready will help you stay organized and efficient in the kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large skillet
Small bowl
Whisk
Measuring cups
Knife
Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

Large skillet: A must-have for cooking shrimp evenly while allowing enough space for them to sear perfectly.
Small bowl: Ideal for mixing the honey garlic sauce without cluttering your workspace.
Whisk: Helps combine ingredients smoothly, ensuring every bite is full of flavor.

Ingredients

Here are the ingredients you’ll need to create this delightful dish:

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
¼ cup honey
¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
1 tbsp olive oil
2 cups cooked white or brown rice
1 tsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
1 tbsp water (if using cornstarch)
2 tbsp green onions, sliced (for garnish)
1 tsp sesame seeds (for garnish)

How to Make 20 Minute Honey Garlic Shrimp & Rice Bowl

Step 1: Cook the Rice

Start by preparing the rice according to package instructions. Once cooked, set it aside to keep warm while you prepare the shrimp.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together:
¼ cup honey
¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
Minced garlic (4 cloves)
Grated fresh ginger (1 tsp)

If you opt to thicken the sauce, mix in:
1 tsp cornstarch with
1 tbsp water

Add this mixture into your sauce blend.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

Heat:
1 tbsp olive oil

in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook for about:
1. 2-3 minutes per side, until they turn pink and slightly golden.

Step 4: Add the Sauce

Once the shrimp are cooked through, pour your prepared honey garlic sauce over them. Cook for an additional:
1. 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and coat each piece of shrimp evenly.

Step 5: Serve

Spoon the honey garlic shrimp generously over bowls of warm rice. Garnish with:
Sliced green onions (2 tbsp)
Sesame seeds (1 tsp)

Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious creation!

How to Serve 20 Minute Honey Garlic Shrimp & Rice Bowl

Serving your 20 Minute Honey Garlic Shrimp & Rice Bowl is an opportunity to enhance its flavor and presentation. Here are some creative ways to enjoy this delicious dish.

Garnish with Fresh Ingredients

Green Onions: Sliced green onions add a fresh, crisp flavor that complements the sweetness of the shrimp.
Sesame Seeds: A sprinkle of sesame seeds provides a nice crunch and enhances the bowl’s visual appeal.

Pair with Extra Sauces

Chili Sauce: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, serving with chili sauce can elevate the flavors.
Soy Sauce: A dash of extra soy sauce can enhance the umami taste, perfect for soy lovers.

Create a Complete Meal

Add Vegetables: Consider adding steamed broccoli or snap peas for color and nutrition.
Include Avocado: Slices of creamy avocado can provide richness and balance the flavors in the bowl.

How to Perfect 20 Minute Honey Garlic Shrimp & Rice Bowl

Perfecting your 20 Minute Honey Garlic Shrimp & Rice Bowl takes just a few simple steps. Follow these tips for optimal results.

Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp will enhance the flavor and texture, making your dish even more delightful.
Control Heat Levels: Cooking on medium-high heat ensures that shrimp cook evenly without becoming rubbery.
Thicken Sauce Wisely: If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix cornstarch with water before adding it to the honey garlic mix.
Serve Immediately: For the best taste experience, serve the bowl right after preparing it while everything is warm and fresh.

Best Side Dishes for 20 Minute Honey Garlic Shrimp & Rice Bowl

Adding side dishes can make your meal more satisfying. Here are some great options to pair with your 20 Minute Honey Garlic Shrimp & Rice Bowl.

Steamed Broccoli: This bright green vegetable adds color and health benefits, making your meal more balanced.
Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad will provide crunch and coolness to complement the warm shrimp.
Garlic Noodles: Tossed noodles with garlic butter offer another layer of flavor that pairs well with shrimp.
Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup can enhance your dining experience while adding depth to the meal.
Roasted Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus roasted until tender adds elegance to your table setting.
Spring Rolls: These crispy appetizers filled with veggies are perfect as finger food alongside your rice bowl.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your 20 Minute Honey Garlic Shrimp & Rice Bowl, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:

Skipping the marinade: Not allowing the shrimp to soak in the honey garlic sauce can lead to bland flavors. Take a few minutes to let them marinate for richer taste.
Overcooking the shrimp: Cooking shrimp too long makes them tough. Aim for just 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and shiny.
Using regular soy sauce: Using high-sodium soy sauce can overwhelm the dish. Always choose low-sodium options for a balanced flavor.
Ignoring rice quality: Not all rice is created equal. Use fluffy white or brown rice for the best texture and flavor pairing with the shrimp.
Neglecting garnishes: Skipping green onions or sesame seeds means missing out on added texture and flavor. Always garnish for a beautiful presentation.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
Keep in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Freezing 20 Minute Honey Garlic Shrimp & Rice Bowl

Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
Can be stored for up to 1 month.

Reheating 20 Minute Honey Garlic Shrimp & Rice Bowl

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until heated through.
Microwave: Heat in short bursts, stirring between intervals, until warmed through.
Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the 20 Minute Honey Garlic Shrimp & Rice Bowl?

The dish includes succulent shrimp cooked in a honey garlic sauce served over fluffy rice. It’s simple yet delicious!

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the shrimp and sauce ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. Just cook fresh rice before serving.

How spicy is the 20 Minute Honey Garlic Shrimp & Rice Bowl?

This recipe is not spicy at all. You can add red pepper flakes if you prefer some heat!

What can I substitute for shrimp?

If you want an alternative, chicken or tofu works well with the same honey garlic sauce.

Final Thoughts

The 20 Minute Honey Garlic Shrimp & Rice Bowl is not only quick but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the sweetness of the sauce. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something satisfying yet simple. Give it a try and enjoy this delightful meal!

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