This Chili’s Garlic Lime Shrimp recipe is a delicious mix of bold flavors with minimal time in the kitchen.
You’ll love how using fresh lime juice adds a refreshing tang to every bite, perfectly complemented by the garlic’s savory touch.
My best tip is to be sure marinate the shrimp for at least 15 minutes to let the flavors fully infuse.
I always garnish with fresh cilantro for an extra burst of freshness.
How to Make Chili’s Garlic Lime Shrimp
Ingredients
- 2 lbs. Shrimp (jumbo, steamed)
- 2 tbsp. Garlic (minced)
- 2 Limes (juiced)
- 1 tsp. Lime Zest
- 3 tbsp. Chili Oil
- 1 tsp. Red Pepper Flakes
- 1 tsp. Paprika
- 1 tsp. Ground Ancho Chile Pepper
- 1 tsp. Ground Cumin
- 1/2 tsp. Salt
- 1/4 tsp. Pepper
- 1/4 cup Olive Oil
- 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes (halved)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1:
Mix the lime juice, lime zest, chili oil, garlic, red pepper flakes, paprika, ground ancho chile pepper, ground cumin, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.
Step 2:
Add the steamed shrimp to the marinade.
Let it rest for 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
Step 3:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the marinated shrimp and cook for 5 to 8 minutes until it turns golden.
Step 4:
Add cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for another 3 minutes.
They should soften slightly.
Step 5:
Plate the shrimp and sprinkle additional lime zest on top for a fresh burst of flavor.
Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe
Marinating Time Matters!
Make sure to let the shrimp marinate for at least 30 minutes so the flavors truly meld together.
Choose the Right Shrimp!
Opt for jumbo shrimp for the best outcome, as it will hold up well during cooking and absorb the flavors effectively.
Adjust the Spice!
Feel free to play with the amount of red pepper flakes to match your spice preference without overwhelming the dish.
Cooking with Enthusiasm!
Cook on medium heat to avoid burning the spices and to keep the garlic from becoming too bitter.
Fresh Ingredients Shine!
Using fresh lime juice and real garlic instead of bottled varieties will provide the freshest taste possible for this shrimp dish.
What to Serve with Chili Garlic Lime Shrimp
Garlic Noodles
You can pair your chili garlic lime shrimp with garlic noodles for a savory twist.
These noodles are infused with rich flavors that blend well with the zestiness of the shrimp.
When I make this dish, the noodles bring a comforting balance that complements the shrimp’s bold taste.
Jasmine Rice
Serving shrimp over a bed of jasmine rice is always a fantastic option.
The rice’s delicate aroma and fluffy texture harmonize with the vibrant flavors of chili and lime.
You can also add a hint of cumin or cilantro to enhance the flavor profile.
Roasted Baby Potatoes
Roasted baby potatoes make a delightful companion to your shrimp dish.
These small, crispy potatoes have a creamy interior that adds a satisfying texture to your meal.
I find that the subtle sweetness of the potatoes contrasts perfectly with the spicy shrimp.
Grilled Pineapple
Grilled pineapple might sound unusual, but it pairs amazingly well with chili garlic lime shrimp.
The caramelized edges of the fruit add a sweet and smoky note.
This unexpected combination can bring freshness that highlights the shrimp’s flavors beautifully.
Mexican Street Corn
Mexican street corn is another fantastic, non-traditional option to pair with the shrimp.
The tangy, creamy, and spicy flavors of the corn provide a vibrant contrast to the shrimp.
You can have fun sprinkling some cotija cheese on top for extra flavor.
Variations and Substitutions
Feel free to shake things up by swapping some ingredients or adding new ones!
Ingredient Swaps
If you don’t have lime on hand, lemon juice can be a great alternative for a similar citrus punch.
You can replace fresh garlic with garlic powder if you prefer a more subtle flavor without the chunks.
Spice Adjustments
Not a fan of too much heat?
Try using smoked paprika instead of chili powder for a milder kick while still adding delicious depth.
On the other hand, if you seek more spice, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to your marinade.
This simple addition can give the shrimp more heat!
Texture and Flavor Boosts
Consider adding avocados or mango on the side for an extra layer of flavor.
They pair wonderfully with the chili and lime zest.
If you’re feeling adventurous, think about tossing in some finely chopped cilantro for a fresh, herbaceous note.
How to Store Leftover Chili Garlic Lime Shrimp
Use Airtight Containers
An airtight container is your best friend when storing leftover shrimp in the fridge.
Keeping the air out helps maintain the shrimp’s freshness and flavor for up to three or four days.
I always recommend using a sturdy glass or plastic container for the best results.
Refrigerate Promptly
Place your leftover chili garlic lime shrimp in the fridge as soon as it cools down.
Quick refrigeration prevents the growth of bacteria, preserving the shrimp’s quality.
Make sure the temperature is set to below 40°F (4°C) for safe storage.
Freezing Option
If you’re not planning to eat the leftovers soon, consider freezing them.
Wrap the shrimp tightly in foil or plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer bag.
Frozen shrimp can last for up to two months, retaining most of their taste and texture.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Overcooking the Shrimp
You don’t want to end up with tough and rubbery shrimp, so keep an eye on the cooking time.
Shrimp cook quickly, usually in just 5 to 8 minutes, and should be removed from heat once they turn pink and opaque.
Not Marinating Long Enough
Marinating your shrimp enhances flavor, so don’t skimp on this step.
Letting the shrimp marinate for at least 30 minutes in the lime, garlic, and chili mixture makes a huge difference in taste.
Skipping Fresh Ingredients
Using fresh lime juice rather than bottled varieties adds brightness that enhances the dish.
Freshly minced garlic and chopped cilantro elevate the flavor, so be sure to prep fresh ingredients.
Remember to taste as you go, adjusting seasoning as needed!
Chili's Garlic Lime Shrimp Recipe
- 2 lbs. Shrimp jumbo, steamed
- 2 tbsp. Garlic minced
- 2 Limes juiced
- 1 tsp. Lime Zest
- 3 tbsp. Chili Oil
- 1 tsp. Red Pepper Flakes
- 1 tsp. Paprika
- 1 tsp. Ground Ancho Chile Pepper
- 1 tsp. Ground Cumin
- 1/2 tsp. Salt
- 1/4 tsp. Pepper
- 1/4 cup Olive Oil
- 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes halved
- Mix the lime juice, lime zest, chili oil, garlic, red pepper flakes, paprika, ground ancho chile pepper, ground cumin, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.
- Add the steamed shrimp to the marinade.
- Let it rest for 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the marinated shrimp and cook for 5 to 8 minutes until it turns golden.
- Add cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for another 3 minutes.
- They should soften slightly.
- Plate the shrimp and sprinkle additional lime zest on top for a fresh burst of flavor.
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