Sweet Chili Shrimp Skewers

Name: Sweet Chili Shrimp Skewers
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon lime juice; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated; Salt and pepper to taste; Wooden skewers, soaked in water

Highlighted under: World Cuisine

I absolutely adore making Sweet Chili Shrimp Skewers; they're a vibrant highlight at any gathering. The sweet and spicy glaze perfectly complements the succulent shrimp, imparting a depth of flavor that keeps everyone coming back for seconds. It's a perfect balance that I love serving alongside a fresh salad or warm rice. Whether it's a summer barbecue or an indoor dinner party, this recipe brings fun and excitement to the table. Trust me, these skewers will become a favorite in your repertoire!

Created by

Lara

Last updated on 2026-02-04T15:29:27.315Z

When I first made Sweet Chili Shrimp Skewers, I was surprised by how quickly they came together. The combination of fresh shrimp with that zesty sweet chili sauce created an irresistible dish that disappeared in minutes. I remember serving them at a weekend barbecue, and my friends couldn’t stop raving about them!

One detail that makes this recipe special is marinating the shrimp beforehand. It allows the flavors to infuse beautifully, ensuring each bite is packed with tangy sweetness. This simple step transforms an ordinary dish into a party favorite, and it’s one I always recommend to elevate your skewers.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Sweet and spicy flavor profile that tantalizes the taste buds
Quick and easy prep makes it perfect for weeknight dinners
Versatile dish that pairs well with any side, from rice to salads
Visually stunning presentation that impresses at parties

Mastering the Marinade

The sweet chili sauce is the star of this shrimp skewer recipe, bringing both flavor and moisture. Its combination of sugar and chili creates a perfect glaze that caramelizes beautifully on the grill. When mixing the marinade, be sure to taste it after combining all the ingredients; adjust the soy sauce or lime juice to suit your palette. This balance of sweet and savory will enhance the natural sweetness of the shrimp.

Letting the shrimp marinate for at least 15 minutes is crucial for flavor development. If you’re short on time, even 5 minutes will make a difference, but the longer they sit, the more pronounced the taste. For a more intense flavor, consider marinating the shrimp for up to an hour, but avoid exceeding this time as the acidity from lime juice can begin to 'cook' the shrimp, resulting in a rubbery texture.

Grilling Techniques

When grilling the skewers, preheat your grill to medium-high heat, which is typically around 375°F to 400°F. This temperature ensures that the shrimp cook evenly and quickly without drying out. Keep a close eye on them, as shrimp cook rapidly, often in just 2-3 minutes per side. Look for a change in color to opaque and a slight curl; this indicates they are done and at their juiciest.

If you find the shrimp sticking to the grill, lightly oiling the grates before cooking can help. Additionally, if your shrimp are particularly large, consider using two skewers for each skewer of shrimp to prevent flipping issues, ensuring they stay intact while cooking. This method also allows for easy turning without losing any shrimp to the grill.

Ingredients

For the Shrimp Skewers

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon lime juice
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
Salt and pepper to taste
Wooden skewers, soaked in water

Instructions

Prepare the Marinade

In a medium bowl, combine sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, lime juice, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Mix well and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Marinate the Shrimp

Add the shrimp to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Assemble the Skewers

Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Thread the marinated shrimp onto the soaked wooden skewers.

Cook the Skewers

Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the shrimp are opaque and cooked through.

Serve

Remove the skewers from the grill and serve hot, drizzled with any remaining marinade if desired.

Pro Tips

For an added kick, feel free to include slices of bell pepper or onion on the skewers. They not only enhance the flavor but also add a nice crunch!

Serving Suggestions

These Sweet Chili Shrimp Skewers are versatile and pair beautifully with a variety of sides. Consider serving them with a bright cucumber salad or fluffy jasmine rice, which can absorb the delicious marinade drips. For a refreshing twist, toss together a mango salsa with diced mango, red onion, lime juice, and cilantro to complement the shrimp's sweetness.

If you're looking to make this dish a full spread, grilled vegetables are an excellent choice, too. Options like bell peppers, zucchini, or red onion can be skewered alongside the shrimp for a colorful, cohesive presentation. They can be tossed with the same marinade for added flavor; just be sure to adjust the grilling time for the veggies, which will need a bit longer to soften.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

For a streamlined cooking process, the shrimp can be marinated a day in advance. Simply mix the marinade, add the shrimp, and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This not only saves time on meal day but also allows for even deeper flavor absorption. Just be sure to use the shrimp within 24 hours to maintain their freshness and texture.

If you plan to make larger batches for gatherings, cooked skewers can be kept warm in a low oven (around 200°F) until it's time to serve. They’re also great for storing leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; reheat them quickly on the grill or in a skillet over medium heat to bring back their texture and flavors before serving.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before marinating.

→ What can I serve with these skewers?

These skewers go beautifully with jasmine rice, a fresh green salad, or even in tacos!

→ Can I make the marinade ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the marinade up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to use it.

→ Are there any vegetarian alternatives?

Yes, you can replace shrimp with firm tofu or grilled vegetables for a vegetarian version!