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A close-up shot of crispy fried shrimp being tossed in a bowl with a glossy hot honey sauce, showing the texture of the coating.

Hot Honey Fried Shrimp (Extra Crispy Recipe!)

This Hot Honey Fried Shrimp recipe delivers incredibly crispy, succulent shrimp tossed in an addictive sweet and spicy sauce. The perfect appetizer or dinner, ready in under 30 minutes with a foolproof method for maximum crunch.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizer, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 485
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Crispy Shrimp
  • 1 lb large shrimp peeled and deveined, tails on or off
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour divided
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 1 large egg lightly beaten
  • 2 cups neutral oil for frying (canola, vegetable, etc.)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Hot Honey Sauce
  • 1/2 cup honey
  • 2 tbsp hot sauce e.g., Frank's RedHot
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 tsp apple cider vinegar

Equipment

  • 1 Large skillet or Dutch oven
  • 1 Small saucepan
  • 1 Wire Rack

Method
 

  1. In a small saucepan, combine honey, hot sauce, butter, and apple cider vinegar. Warm over medium-low heat, stirring until butter melts and the sauce is smooth. Set aside.
  2. Pat shrimp completely dry and season lightly with salt and pepper. Set up three shallow dishes. In the first, whisk together 1/2 cup flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, and paprika. In the second, whisk the egg with 1 tbsp of water. In the third, place the remaining 1/2 cup of flour.
  3. Dredge each shrimp in the first flour mixture, then dip in the egg wash, and finally press into the plain flour, coating completely. Place on a wire rack.
  4. Heat oil in a large skillet to 350-360°F (175-180°C). Fry shrimp in batches for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Do not overcrowd the pan.
  5. Transfer the cooked shrimp to a wire rack to drain any excess oil. Place the hot shrimp in a large bowl, pour the hot honey sauce over them, and toss gently to coat. Serve immediately, garnished with sliced green onions if desired.

Notes

For Air Fryer Method: After breading, spray shrimp with cooking oil and air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway.
Oil Temperature is Key: Use a thermometer to ensure your oil is at the correct temperature for the crispiest results.
Don't skip drying the shrimp: Patting the shrimp dry is essential for the breading to adhere properly and become crispy.