Chili Garlic Shrimp Stir-Fry in Minutes is a quick, vibrant, and flavor-packed dish perfect for busy weeknights. Succulent shrimp are cooked to perfection with crisp vegetables and coated in a spicy, garlicky sauce that delivers an instant burst of umami and heat. The combination of fresh ingredients, bold seasoning, and speedy cooking makes this stir-fry both healthy and satisfying.

I love this recipe because it brings restaurant-quality flavors to the home kitchen in under 20 minutes. The shrimp stay tender, the vegetables retain a delightful crunch, and the chili garlic sauce creates a perfect balance of spice, sweetness, and tang. This dish proves that quick meals can be incredibly flavorful and visually appealing.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s incredibly versatile and forgiving. The shrimp cook almost instantly, and the vegetables can be tailored to whatever is on hand, making it easy to adapt based on season or pantry availability. The chili garlic sauce is bold and aromatic but can be adjusted to suit your spice tolerance. Every bite is packed with flavor, and the stir-fry comes together in minutes without sacrificing taste or quality.

It’s also a one-pan wonder that minimizes cleanup, making it ideal for busy cooks or those looking for an effortless, healthy dinner.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This dish is a must-try because it combines speed, simplicity, and gourmet flavor. The chili garlic sauce elevates everyday shrimp into a fiery, savory experience, while the quick stir-frying preserves the vegetables’ natural color and crunch. It’s ideal for anyone craving a light, protein-rich meal with a punch of heat.

It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or even a casual dinner with friends. Pair it with rice, noodles, or enjoy it on its own for a low-carb option.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes

Servings and Calories

• Servings: 4
• Calories: Approximately 280 per serving
• Course: Main course
• Cuisine: Asian-inspired

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1–2 teaspoons chili flakes (adjust to taste)
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 cup snap peas
• 1 medium carrot, julienned
• 3 green onions, chopped
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (optional, for thickening)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Cooked rice or noodles for serving
• Optional garnish: sesame seeds, chopped cilantro

Cooking Directions

1. Prepare vegetables and shrimp.
2. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Stir-fry garlic and chili flakes until fragrant.
4. Add shrimp and cook until pink and opaque.
5. Add vegetables and stir-fry for 3–4 minutes until crisp-tender.
6. Add soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, and sesame oil. Stir to coat.
7. Optional: Add cornstarch slurry to thicken sauce.
8. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Prepare Ingredients

1. Peel and devein the shrimp if needed.
2. Wash and thinly slice the bell peppers, carrot, and snap peas.
3. Mince garlic and chop green onions.
4. Mix soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, and sesame oil in a small bowl.

Step 2: Cook Garlic and Shrimp

1. Heat vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add minced garlic and chili flakes, sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp and stir-fry for 2–3 minutes until they turn pink and opaque.
4. Remove shrimp and set aside to prevent overcooking.

Step 3: Cook Vegetables

1. Add carrots, bell peppers, and snap peas to the same pan.
2. Stir-fry for 3–4 minutes until vegetables are crisp-tender but still vibrant.

Step 4: Combine and Add Sauce

1. Return the shrimp to the pan.
2. Pour in the prepared sauce and toss everything to coat evenly.
3. Optional: Stir in cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce slightly.
4. Add green onions and cook for 1 more minute.

Step 5: Serve

1. Serve hot over steamed rice or cooked noodles.
2. Garnish with sesame seeds or chopped cilantro if desired.

How to Serve This Recipe

• Serve over white, brown, or jasmine rice.
• Pair with noodles or quinoa for variety.
• Add a wedge of lime on the side for a fresh citrus kick.
• Ideal for lunch or dinner, and works well for meal prep.

Recipe Tips

• Do not overcook shrimp; they turn rubbery quickly.
• Slice vegetables uniformly for even cooking.
• Adjust chili flakes based on spice tolerance.
• Use a hot pan to achieve proper stir-fry sear and avoid steaming the vegetables.
• Cornstarch slurry is optional; the sauce will still be flavorful without thickening.

Variations

• Garlic Butter Shrimp Stir-Fry: Replace chili flakes with garlic and butter for a milder version.
• Spicy Thai Stir-Fry: Add 1 tablespoon of Thai chili paste or Sriracha.
• Low-Sodium Version: Use low-sodium soy sauce and skip additional salt.
• Vegetable-Heavy: Add broccoli, zucchini, or mushrooms for more bulk and nutrition.
• Sweet and Spicy: Increase honey to 2 tablespoons for a sweet heat contrast.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days; best eaten fresh.
• Freezing: Not recommended for vegetables, as they may become mushy. Freeze cooked shrimp and sauce separately for up to 1 month.
• Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to loosen the sauce if needed.

Special Equipment Needed

• Wok or large skillet
• Spatula or wooden spoon
• Cutting board and knife
• Mixing bowl for sauce

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes. Thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.

Can I make this dish milder?
Reduce or omit chili flakes and use bell peppers only.

Can I prep vegetables ahead of time?
Yes. Slice and store in an airtight container in the fridge up to a day before cooking.

Can I use other proteins?
Chicken, tofu, or scallops work well as substitutes.

Can I store leftovers?
Store shrimp and vegetables separately from rice or noodles for best texture.

Conclusion

Chili Garlic Shrimp Stir-Fry in Minutes is a quick, flavorful, and healthy dish that combines tender shrimp, crisp vegetables, and a bold garlicky, spicy sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or quick lunches, it delivers restaurant-quality flavor in minimal time. With simple ingredients, easy preparation, and versatile options for customization, this stir-fry is a must-have recipe for anyone who loves fast, fresh, and flavorful meals.