There’s something about the perfect balance of sweet heat that just makes my taste buds sing—and that’s exactly what this Sweet Chili Shrimp Skewers Recipe delivers. Whether you’re firing up the grill for a casual weekend cookout or craving a quick, flavorful dinner, these skewers come together in a flash with a sticky, vibrant glaze that clings to tender shrimp. I love how each bite offers that irresistible combination of smoky char and a touch of sweetness that feels both fresh and indulgent. If you’ve ever found yourself bored of the usual takeout, this recipe is your new go-to for a homemade meal that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. Plus, it’s versatile enough to impress guests or satisfy a quiet night in. Ready to transform shrimp into a show-stopping dish? Let’s dive in!

Why choose Sweet Chili Shrimp Skewers Recipe?

Flavor-packed: This recipe masterfully balances sweet and spicy for a mouthwatering bite every time. Quick and easy: Perfect for busy cooks, it comes together in minutes with minimal prep. Grill-friendly: Ideal for outdoor gatherings or cozy indoor grills, delivering smoky char and vibrant glaze. Versatile appeal: Great as an appetizer, main, or party snack that impresses all ages. Fresh yet indulgent: Combines light, juicy shrimp with sticky, flavorful sauce—goodbye boring meals!

Sweet Chili Shrimp Skewers Recipe Ingredients

For the Shrimp

Large shrimp (peeled and deveined) – Choose fresh or thawed shrimp for juicy, tender bites every time.
Olive oil – Helps the glaze stick and adds a subtle richness to the shrimp.
Salt and pepper – Simple seasonings to enhance the natural shrimp flavor without overpowering the glaze.

For the Sweet Chili Glaze

Sweet chili sauce – The heart of this Sweet Chili Shrimp Skewers Recipe; delivers that perfect blend of sweet heat.
Honey – Adds an extra layer of natural sweetness and helps caramelize the glaze on the grill.
Soy sauce – Provides a salty depth that balances the sweetness perfectly.
Garlic (minced) – Infuses a punch of aromatic flavor that elevates every skewer.
Lime juice – Brightens the glaze with fresh acidity, cutting through the richness beautifully.

Optional Garnishes

Fresh cilantro – Adds a burst of herbal brightness as a finishing touch.
Chopped green onions – For a mild crunch and fresh color contrast.
Sesame seeds – Sprinkle on top for toasty nuttiness and visual appeal.

How to Make Sweet Chili Shrimp Skewers Recipe

Preheat Grill: Preheat your grill or indoor grill pan to medium-high (around 400°F). Oil the grates to prevent shrimp from sticking during cooking (about 5 minutes).
Marinate Shrimp: In a bowl, toss large shrimp with olive oil, salt, and pepper until fully coated. Let them marinate for 10 minutes to absorb flavors.
Thread Shrimp: Thread about 5–6 marinated shrimp per skewer, leaving small gaps so heat circulates evenly and each shrimp cooks to juicy perfection.

For the Glaze:

Mix Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together sweet chili sauce, honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, and lime juice until smooth and vibrantly colored.
Grill Skewers: Place skewers on the preheated grill, cooking until shrimp turn opaque pink and charred at edges, about 2–3 minutes per side.
Glaze & Flip: Brush the sweet chili glaze over one side of the shrimp, grill for 1 minute, flip, and baste again for a glossy, sticky finish.
Rest & Serve: Remove skewers, rest for 2 minutes to let juices redistribute, then garnish with fresh cilantro or sesame seeds before serving.

Optional: Serve with lime wedges and chopped green onions for bright, fresh finish.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Sweet Chili Shrimp Skewers Recipe?

Picture a summer evening, friends gathered around, laughter filling the air, as your Sweet Chili Shrimp Skewers take center stage—how can you enhance this delightful feast?

Coconut Rice: The creamy sweetness of coconut rice beautifully balances the spicy glaze, adding a tropical flair to your meal.
Grilled Veggies: Charred asparagus and bell peppers provide a colorful, smoky complement to the shrimp’s sweetness—perfect for a healthy side.
Garlic Bread: Crunchy on the outside, soft on the inside, garlic bread makes for a savory contrast to the shrimp’s sticky glaze, ideal for soaking up the flavors.
Asian Slaw: A crisp slaw with tangy dressing adds a crunchy texture and refreshing bite, elevating the entire dining experience effortlessly.
Caesar Salad: The creamy dressing and crunchy croutons of a classic Caesar salad are perfect to tone down the heat of the skewers while adding a touch of richness.
Cold Beer or Rosé: Pair your meal with a light, refreshing beer or a chilled rosé to cleanse the palate between the flavorful bites of shrimp.

Mix and match these delectable options to tailor your dinner to your preferred tastes, creating an unforgettable meal everyone will love!

Tips for the Best Sweet Chili Shrimp Skewers Recipe

Choose Fresh Shrimp: Use fresh or fully thawed shrimp to ensure the juiciest, most tender bites in your Sweet Chili Shrimp Skewers Recipe.
Don’t Overcrowd Skewers: Leave space between shrimp for even cooking and perfect char without steaming them.
Preheat Grill Properly: Ensure the grill is hot and well-oiled before placing skewers to prevent sticking and promote caramelization.
Apply Glaze Gradually: Brush the glaze in stages while grilling to build sticky layers without burning the sugars.
Rest Before Serving: Let skewers rest briefly after grilling to keep shrimp moist and allow flavors to settle beautifully.

Make Ahead Options

These Sweet Chili Shrimp Skewers Recipe are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time on busy weeknights! You can marinate the shrimp and prepare the sweet chili glaze up to 24 hours in advance; simply toss the shrimp in olive oil, salt, and pepper, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The glaze can also be prepared ahead; just whisk the ingredients together and keep it chilled until ready to use. When it’s time to cook, thread the marinated shrimp onto skewers, grill them for a quick 2–3 minutes per side, and brush with glaze for that delicious, sticky finish. This way, you’ll enjoy fresh, vibrant skewers that are just as tasty as if they were made from scratch!

How to Store and Freeze Sweet Chili Shrimp Skewers

Fridge: Store leftover Sweet Chili Shrimp Skewers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure to let them cool completely before sealing to avoid condensation.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze skewers in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be kept for up to 2 months.

Reheating: To enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the grill or in a skillet over medium heat for 4–5 minutes, brushing with additional glaze if desired.

Sweet Chili Shrimp Skewers Variations & Substitutions

Get ready to unleash your inner chef and put your unique spin on this delightful recipe!

Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of sriracha or red pepper flakes to your glaze for a fiery twist that perfectly complements the sweetness.
Citrus Burst: Swap lime juice for orange juice for a sweeter, fruitier glaze that adds a refreshing twist to your skewers.
Herbed Delight: Incorporate fresh herbs like basil or mint in addition to cilantro for a vibrant twist that brings aromatic freshness.
Veggie Medley: Mix in bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes on the skewers for added flavor, color, and a satisfying crunch.
Gluten-Free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce to make this dish gluten-free without sacrificing that savory flavor.

Each variation offers a new adventure for your taste buds. Feel free to explore and enjoy crafting your version of sweet chili shrimp skewers!

Sweet Chili Shrimp Skewers Recipe FAQs

How fresh should the shrimp be for the best Sweet Chili Shrimp Skewers Recipe?
Fresh or fully thawed shrimp work best to keep the texture juicy and tender. Look for shrimp that are firm with a mild ocean scent, avoiding any with dark spots or a strong fishy odor.

Can I store leftovers of Sweet Chili Shrimp Skewers, and how long will they stay good?
Absolutely! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure the skewers cool completely before sealing to prevent sogginess from condensation.

Is it possible to freeze these shrimp skewers, and how should I do it?
Very much so! Lay the cooked skewers in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm (about 1-2 hours). Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag, squeezing out excess air. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the grill or stovetop for 4–5 minutes, brushing extra glaze for that fresh sticky punch.

What if my shrimp become rubbery or dry after grilling?
Don’t worry, it happens! The key is cooking shrimp quickly over medium-high heat—about 2–3 minutes per side—and not overdoing it. Avoid overcrowding the skewers to allow even cooking and prevent steaming. Also, resting the skewers for a couple of minutes helps keep the shrimp juicy.

Are Sweet Chili Shrimp Skewers safe for pets or people with allergies?
While shrimp can be delicious for us, they aren’t recommended for pets due to potential allergies and seasoning in the glaze. For those with shellfish allergies, this recipe should be avoided altogether. If allergies are a concern, try swapping shrimp for chicken or firm tofu and adjust the glaze accordingly for a similar sweet-spicy kick.