Hot Honey Fried Shrimp (Crispy, Sticky & Spicy)
Get ready for your new favorite appetizer obsession: Hot Honey Fried Shrimp. As seen in the photos, these are not just your average fried shrimp; they are coated in a perfectly seasoned, golden crispy crust and then tossed in a luscious, sticky glaze that is equal parts sweet and spicy. The glossy amber sauce clings to every nook and cranny of the breading, speckled with red pepper flakes that promise a delightful kick with every bite.
The magic of this dish is the texture contrast. You get the initial crunch of the savory, spice-infused fried batter, followed immediately by the smooth, sticky heat of the homemade hot honey butter sauce. It’s a flavor profile that hits every note on the palate—salty, sweet, spicy, and savory. Whether served as a party appetizer or a main dish over rice, these shrimp are impossible to stop eating.
Secrets to the Perfect Hot Honey Fried Shrimp
Why It Works
This recipe succeeds because of the “sweet heat” balance. The rich sweetness of the honey mellows out the sharp acidity of the hot sauce and the bite of the cayenne, creating a complex flavor that is addictive rather than overwhelming. Visually, the “glassy glaze” seen in the image is achieved by adding a touch of butter and apple cider vinegar to the honey, which gives it that luxurious sheen and prevents it from crystalizing.
A specific technique visible in the photo is the rough, textured coating. This allows the sauce to pool in the crevices rather than sliding off. This is achieved by seasoning the flour heavily with smoked paprika and garlic powder, creating a crust that is flavorful on its own even before the sauce is added.
Chef’s Tips
- Sauce While Hot: The secret to that perfect sticky coating is to toss the shrimp in the sauce immediately after frying. The heat from the shrimp helps the butter and honey melt into the breading slightly, locking in the flavor.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When frying, give the shrimp plenty of space. If you add too many at once, the oil temperature drops, and the breading will absorb oil and become greasy instead of crispy.
- Adjust the Heat: The red pepper flakes seen in the image add texture and extra heat. If you prefer a milder version, you can strain the sauce or reduce the cayenne in the flour dredge.
Serve these sticky delights with a side of cool ranch dressing or pile them high on a po’ boy sandwich for a spicy twist on a classic.
Storage
These are best eaten fresh as the sauce will eventually make the breading soggy. However, you can store leftovers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in an air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes to crisp them back up. Microwaving is not recommended.
Substitutions
Protein: This batter and sauce combination works perfectly with chicken tenders or cauliflower florets for a vegetarian option. Sweetener: You can substitute maple syrup or agave for the honey, though the flavor profile will change. Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch/rice flour mix for the breading.
Ingredients
1 lb, large, peeled and deveined (tails on or off)
For frying (enough to fill pan 1 inch deep)
1 cup, for the coating
2 tbsp, (optional addition for extra crunch)
1 tsp
1 tsp
1 tsp
1/2 tsp, adjust for heat preference
1/2 tsp
1/4 tsp
2 large, beaten
2 tbsp
1/2 cup
2 tbsp (Frank's RedHot or similar)
1 tbsp, unsalted
1 tbsp, cuts the sweetness
1/4 tsp, for the sauce
Shopping Tip
For best results, gather all ingredients before you start cooking. Fresh ingredients will give you the most flavorful results.
Instructions
In a small saucepan over low heat, combine honey, hot sauce, butter, apple cider vinegar, and red pepper flakes. Simmer gently for 2-3 minutes until combined and slightly thickened. Set aside (keep warm).
In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk. In a separate bowl, mix the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne, salt, and black pepper.
Dip each shrimp first into the flour mixture, shaking off excess. Then dip into the egg wash, and finally back into the flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere the breading.
Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or Dutch oven to 350°F (175°C).
Fry the shrimp in batches for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Do not overcrowd.
Remove shrimp with a slotted spoon and place on a wire rack or paper towels for just a minute to drain excess oil.
Transfer the hot fried shrimp to a large bowl. Pour the warm hot honey sauce over them and toss gently until every shrimp is coated and glistening.
Serve immediately while hot and crispy.
Serve this recipe straight from the kitchen for the best taste and texture. It's sure to become a favorite that you'll make again and again.
Frequently Asked Questions
→ What type of ingredients work best for this dish?
Use the freshest ingredients available for the best flavor and texture results.
→ Can I make substitutions?
Yes, feel free to swap ingredients based on your preferences or dietary needs.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store in the refrigerator and reheat gently to maintain the best texture.
Hot Honey Fried Shrimp (Crispy, Sticky & Spicy)
Get ready for your new favorite appetizer obsession: Hot Honey Fried Shrimp. As seen in the photos, these are not just your average fried shrimp; they are coate
Ingredients
Instructions
In a small saucepan over low heat, combine honey, hot sauce, butter, apple cider vinegar, and red pepper flakes. Simmer gently for 2-3 minutes until combined and slightly thickened. Set aside (keep warm).
In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk. In a separate bowl, mix the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne, salt, and black pepper.
Dip each shrimp first into the flour mixture, shaking off excess. Then dip into the egg wash, and finally back into the flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere the breading.
Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or Dutch oven to 350°F (175°C).
Fry the shrimp in batches for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Do not overcrowd.
Remove shrimp with a slotted spoon and place on a wire rack or paper towels for just a minute to drain excess oil.
Transfer the hot fried shrimp to a large bowl. Pour the warm hot honey sauce over them and toss gently until every shrimp is coated and glistening.
Serve immediately while hot and crispy.
Rate This Recipe
Tools You'll Need
- Deep Skillet or Dutch Oven
- Small Saucepan
- Wire Rack
Recipe Tags
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At Cozy Bites Kitchen, we believe that great food doesn't have to be complicated. Our passion is creating easy, cozy, and delicious homemade recipes for everyday cooking - quick meals, comfort dishes, family dinners, soups, pastas, and simple home-style favorites. Warm, friendly, and fuss-free cooking made for real life.
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