Crispy Sesame Popcorn Shrimp

If you’re on the hunt for a quick, flavorful, and irresistibly crunchy seafood dish, Crispy Sesame Popcorn Shrimp is here to make your dinner dreams come true. Using an 11.8oz package of SeaPak Popcorn Shrimp, this recipe cooks up a perfect balance of sweetness, tang, and a little spicy kick—all coated in a glossy, crunchy sesame glaze that’ll have you grabbing for seconds (and thirds!). Whether you’re whipping this up for a casual weeknight or impressing friends with an easy appetizer, these shrimp are sure to shine.

Why It’s My Go-To

What makes Crispy Sesame Popcorn Shrimp a staple in my kitchen? It’s the perfect harmony of convenience and incredible flavor. The pre-breaded SeaPak Popcorn Shrimp saves so much prep time, allowing you to enjoy a restaurant-worthy dish without the hassle. Plus, the homemade sauce combines honey, brown sugar, and a splash of rice vinegar for that perfect sweet-and-tangy balance, enhanced with sesame oil and a hint of chili garlic paste for warmth.

This dish is incredibly versatile, pairing beautifully with steamed rice, crunchy slaw, or even tossed into a crisp salad for an easy lunch. And if you’re a fan of shrimp dishes, you might love the Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Penne for another quick seafood dinner idea!

What’s in the Bowl

• 11.8oz package SeaPak Popcorn Shrimp: The star of the show, pre-breaded for ultra-crispy results.
• 1 cup chicken broth: Adds depth to the sauce without overpowering the shrimp.
• 3 tablespoons honey: Natural sweetness that balances the savory elements.
• 3 tablespoons brown sugar: Adds a rich molasses flavor to deepen the sauce.
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar: Brings a bright tang that cuts through the sweetness.
• 1/4 cup soy sauce: The umami base for the glaze (ensure a gluten-free version if needed).
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil: Infuses that signature nutty aroma.
• 1/2 teaspoon chili garlic paste: Adds subtle heat and garlicky punch.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic for aromatic flavor.
• 1/4 teaspoon ginger, minced: Bright, zesty undertones.
• 2 tablespoons corn starch: Thickens the sauce to a perfect glaze consistency.
• 1 teaspoon sesame seeds: Toasted and sprinkled on top for extra crunch and flavor.

What’s in the Gear List

• Large skillet or frying pan: For cooking the shrimp and making the sauce.
• Mixing bowl: To combine the sauce ingredients.
• Whisk: Helps blend the sauce smoothly.
• Measuring cups and spoons: For accuracy with sweeteners and spices.
• Spatula or tongs: To toss the shrimp gently in the sauce.
• Small bowl: To mix corn starch with water for slurry.

Crispy Sesame Popcorn Shrimp — Do This Next

Step 1: Heat the Shrimp

Begin by heating your skillet over medium heat. Add the SeaPak Popcorn Shrimp straight from the package—no need to thaw—and cook according to package instructions until golden and crispy, which usually takes about 4-5 minutes. Once cooked, transfer the shrimp to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.

Step 2: Whisk the Sauce

In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken broth, honey, brown sugar, rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, chili garlic paste, minced garlic, and ginger. Whisk until the sugar is mostly dissolved and the mixture looks well combined.

Step 3: Thicken the Sauce

In a small bowl, mix the corn starch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to create a smooth slurry. Pour the sauce mixture into the skillet over medium heat and bring it to a gentle simmer. Slowly stir in the corn starch slurry while whisking continuously. The sauce will begin to thicken and develop a shiny glaze consistency.

Step 4: Toss the Shrimp

Return the crispy popcorn shrimp to the skillet with the sauce. Gently toss or stir to coat each piece evenly without breaking the crispy coating. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, letting the glaze cling to the shrimp.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle the toasted sesame seeds over the sauced shrimp for that final nutty crunch. Serve immediately over steamed rice or alongside your favorite fresh veggies.

If you’re craving an extra layer of flavor, try drizzling some Sweet And Sour Sauce on the side for dipping or even mixing into the glaze for a twist!

Easy Ingredient Swaps

• Chicken broth: Swap for vegetable broth or water if you prefer a lighter base.
• Honey: Use maple syrup or agave nectar for a plant-based sweetener alternative.
• Soy sauce: Try tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free or milder soy flavor.
• Chili garlic paste: Replace with sriracha or red pepper flakes if you want to control heat level.
• SeaPak Popcorn Shrimp: Substitute with any pre-breaded shrimp or even bite-sized chicken nuggets for a different protein.

Common Errors (and Fixes)

• Shrimp getting soggy: Be sure to drain well on paper towels after cooking and don’t overcoat with sauce. Toss gently to preserve crispness.
• Sauce too thin: Gradually add corn starch slurry a little at a time until your desired thickness is reached.
• Sauce too sweet or salty: Adjust by adding more rice vinegar for brightness or a splash of water to dilute intensity.
• Shrimp overcooked and rubbery: Follow package instructions closely and avoid reheating shrimp too long in the sauce.

Save for Later: Storage Tips

Store any leftover Crispy Sesame Popcorn Shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To maintain crispiness, reheat in a skillet over medium heat rather than microwaving, which can make the coating soggy. If needed, add a splash of water to loosen the sauce while reheating. For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked shrimp without sauce and prepare fresh sauce when ready to serve.

Troubleshooting Q&A

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! The sauce can be prepared up to 2 days in advance and refrigerated. Before adding shrimp, reheat gently and whisk in the corn starch slurry to thicken it fresh.

What if I don’t have rice vinegar?

Lemon juice or apple cider vinegar can be used as substitutes, but use less than the recipe calls for and adjust to taste to avoid overpowering acidity.

How can I make this less spicy?

Simply reduce or omit the chili garlic paste. You can also replace it with a mild garlic paste or just minced garlic for flavor without heat.

Can I bake the shrimp instead of frying?

Yes! Bake the popcorn shrimp according to package directions for a healthier option. Keep the sauce preparation the same and toss the baked shrimp in the glaze just before serving.

Explore More

• Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Penne – Another shrimp-packed dinner that’s creamy, garlicky, and perfect for weeknights.
• Sweet And Sour Sauce – A tangy, sweet sauce that pairs beautifully with fried seafood and Asian-inspired dishes.

That’s a Wrap

There you have it! Crispy Sesame Popcorn Shrimp that delivers on crunch, flavor, and ease. This recipe is a fantastic way to elevate frozen shrimp into something special without stress or fuss. It’s sweet, tangy, and just spicy enough to keep your taste buds dancing. Next time you want a crowd-pleaser or a flavorful weeknight fix, this dish will be ready to steal the show.

Get your skillet heated and those shrimp sizzling—these crispy bites won’t last long at the table!

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