Bold Flavor in Every Bite These Sweet Chili Shrimp Bites are the perfect spicy-sweet combo for any party or weeknight dinner. Quick to prepare, packed with bold flavor, and served with a creamy garlic dip—this appetizer is guaranteed to wow your guests. The balance of tangy chili glaze and garlicky coolness is simply irresistible, and that’s exactly why this sweet chili shrimp bites recipe is always on rotation in my kitchen.
My Family’s Shrimp Obsession The first time I served these shrimp bites was on a Friday night when my husband got home from work starving and tired. He took one bite, and his eyes lit up—”What is this magic?!” he asked. Since then, we make them on cozy evenings in or when friends come over. Even my picky eater 7-year-old calls them “sweet fireballs.” That creamy garlic dip on the side? It’s now my go-to dip for almost everything. Trust me, once you try these sweet chili shrimp bites, you’ll be hooked too.
Why This Garlic Shrimp Recipe Works
The magic lies in the pairing of heat and cream. The chili glaze gives a sticky sweetness, a little fire, and a gorgeous glaze on the shrimp. Then that garlic dip swoops in with cool, creamy contrast. This garlic shrimp recipe is also super versatile. You can grill it in summer or pan-fry it year-round. Plus, shrimp cooks in minutes!
It’s also ideal for health-conscious foodies. Shrimp is naturally low-cal and packed with lean protein. And since the marinade and dip use pantry basics, no fancy ingredients are needed. Bonus: this recipe easily adapts for gluten-free or low-carb lifestyles. You can even swap shrimp for tofu or chicken.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
For the Shrimp:
- 450g (1 lb) large shrimp, peeled & deveined: A lean protein that absorbs the glaze quickly and delivers a juicy bite.
- 60ml (1/4 cup) sweet chili sauce: The main flavor booster; brings that signature tangy-sweet heat.
- 15ml (1 tbsp) soy sauce: Adds umami depth and balances the sweetness.
- 15ml (1 tbsp) olive oil: Helps the shrimp grill or fry evenly with a golden finish.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Lends warm, savory notes to amplify the chili glaze.
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional): For an extra spicy kick.
- Salt & pepper, to taste: Brings out the shrimp’s natural flavor.
- Fresh cilantro or green onions, for garnish: Adds a fresh herbal pop of color and flavor.
For the Garlic Dip:
- 120g (1/2 cup) mayonnaise: Forms the creamy, rich base.
- 30g (2 tbsp) sour cream: Adds tanginess and lightens the texture.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic = bold flavor and aromatic punch.
- 15ml (1 tbsp) lemon juice: Brightens the dip and balances the mayo.
- Salt & pepper, to taste: Essential to round out the dip.
How to Cook Garlic Shrimp
- Marinate the Shrimp: In a large bowl, mix chili sauce, soy sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Toss in the shrimp and coat well. Let marinate 15–30 minutes.
- Grill or Fry: Heat your grill or skillet over medium-high. Add a little oil if pan-frying. Cook shrimp 2–3 minutes per side until pink and lightly caramelized.
- Prepare Garlic Dip: In a small bowl, whisk together mayo, sour cream, minced garlic, lemon juice, and seasoning until smooth. Chill until ready.
- Garnish & Serve: Plate the shrimp. Garnish with chopped cilantro or green onions. Serve with the dip on the side—and watch them disappear!
Notes
- Use a grill basket to avoid losing shrimp between grates.
- Want extra crisp? Lightly dust shrimp with cornstarch before pan-frying.
- The garlic dip holds well in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Can’t do spice? Use honey garlic sauce instead of sweet chili.
- These sweet chili shrimp bites are also excellent served cold over salad!
Conclusion
These shrimp bites are little flavor bombs that come together fast and disappear even faster. The balance of sweet heat and creamy dip makes them addictive in the best way. If you’re looking for a winning dish to impress, these sweet chili shrimp bites are it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prep these ahead of time?
Absolutely! Marinate the shrimp and make the dip in advance. Just cook the shrimp fresh for best texture.
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just be sure to fully thaw and pat them dry before marinating.
How spicy is this recipe?
It has a mild to moderate heat. Adjust the red pepper flakes to control spice level.
Can I make it healthier?
Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream and low-fat mayo. You can also air-fry the shrimp!
What goes well with it?
They pair great with jasmine rice, veggie skewers, or tossed salad.
Sweet Chili Shrimp Bites
Ingredients
For the Shrimp:
- 450 g 1 lb large shrimp, peeled & deveined: A lean protein that absorbs the glaze quickly and delivers a juicy bite.
- 60 ml 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce: The main flavor booster; brings that signature tangy-sweet heat.
- 15 ml 1 tbsp soy sauce: Adds umami depth and balances the sweetness.
- 15 ml 1 tbsp olive oil: Helps the shrimp grill or fry evenly with a golden finish.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Lends warm savory notes to amplify the chili glaze.
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes optional: For an extra spicy kick.
- Salt & pepper to taste: Brings out the shrimp’s natural flavor.
- Fresh cilantro or green onions for garnish: Adds a fresh herbal pop of color and flavor.
For the Garlic Dip:
- 120 g 1/2 cup mayonnaise: Forms the creamy, rich base.
- 30 g 2 tbsp sour cream: Adds tanginess and lightens the texture.
- 2 cloves garlic minced: Fresh garlic = bold flavor and aromatic punch.
- 15 ml 1 tbsp lemon juice: Brightens the dip and balances the mayo.
- Salt & pepper to taste: Essential to round out the dip.
Instructions
- Marinate the Shrimp: In a large bowl, mix chili sauce, soy sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Toss in the shrimp and coat well. Let marinate 15–30 minutes.
- Grill or Fry: Heat your grill or skillet over medium-high. Add a little oil if pan-frying. Cook shrimp 2–3 minutes per side until pink and lightly caramelized.
- Prepare Garlic Dip: In a small bowl, whisk together mayo, sour cream, minced garlic, lemon juice, and seasoning until smooth. Chill until ready.
- Garnish & Serve: Plate the shrimp. Garnish with chopped cilantro or green onions. Serve with the dip on the side—and watch them disappear!
Notes
