Chilli Garlic Prawns are bold, spicy, and bursting with flavor—ready in just minutes. Juicy prawns are coated in a fiery garlic sauce that’s perfectly balanced with a hint of sweetness, making every bite irresistible. Whether you’re craving a quick weeknight dinner or looking to impress guests with a restaurant-worthy dish, this recipe delivers maximum taste with minimal effort.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy – From stove to table in under 20 minutes.
- Big Flavor, Simple Ingredients – Everyday pantry staples transform into a rich, spicy garlic sauce.
- Perfect for Any Occasion – A weeknight dinner, date night, or party starter.
- Crowd-Pleaser – Spicy, garlicky, and slightly sweet—everyone goes back for seconds.
- Better Than Takeout – Homemade means fresher, juicier prawns and full control over the spice level.
What makes this recipe stand out? The balance of heat from chili, richness from garlic, and a touch of sweetness ensures a sauce that clings beautifully to every prawn—comforting yet exciting.
Ingredients Needed
For the Prawns
- 500g / 1 lb raw prawns (shrimp), peeled and deveined – fresh or frozen, thawed.
- 1 ½ tbsp vegetable oil (or canola oil) – for high-heat searing.
- 1 tsp sesame oil, toasted – adds nutty depth.
For the Sauce
- 3 garlic cloves, finely minced – the star flavor.
- 2 tsp fresh ginger, grated or finely chopped – optional, but adds zing.
- 1 tsp dried chilli flakes – adjust for heat preference.
- ½ cup (125 ml) water – forms the sauce base.
- 3 tbsp Sriracha – gives heat and tang.
- 2 tsp light or all-purpose soy sauce – savory balance.
- 3 tbsp brown sugar – for caramelized sweetness (white sugar works too).
Garnish (Optional)
- Sesame seeds – lightly toasted for crunch.
- Green onions, thinly sliced – for freshness.
- Fresh red chillies, sliced – extra heat and color.
How to Make Chilli Garlic Prawns
Step 1: Sear the prawns
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over high heat. Add half the prawns in a single layer and sear for 45–60 seconds per side, until they turn golden. Remove to a bowl and repeat with the remaining prawns. This quick sear locks in their natural juices.
Step 2: Build the flavor base
Take the skillet off the heat for a moment to cool slightly, then reduce to medium heat. Add sesame oil, followed by garlic, ginger, and chilli flakes. Sauté for 30–45 seconds, until the garlic turns golden and aromatic—this step is the foundation of the sauce.
Step 3: Make the sauce
Pour in water, then stir in Sriracha, soy sauce, and brown sugar. Increase to medium-high heat and simmer for about 3 minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon.
Step 4: Combine prawns with sauce
Return the prawns to the skillet and toss gently to coat. Cook for 1–2 minutes more, until the sauce clings to the prawns and they are fully reheated.
Step 5: Garnish and serve
Sprinkle with sesame seeds, sliced green onions, and fresh chilli if desired. Serve immediately with steamed rice, noodles, or cauliflower rice for a lighter option.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serving Ideas – Pair with jasmine rice, fried rice, or noodles. Works great as a starter with toothpicks at parties. A crisp side salad balances the spice.
- Storage – Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Reheating – Warm gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving too long, as prawns can turn rubbery.
Helpful Notes
- Adjust spice levels by reducing or increasing Sriracha and chilli flakes.
- Frozen prawns work perfectly—just thaw thoroughly and pat dry before cooking.
- For extra depth, add a splash of rice vinegar or lime juice at the end.
- Want more vegetables? Toss in bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for a stir-fry twist.
Chilli Garlic Prawns
Ingredients
Method
- Step 1: Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over high heat. Sear prawns in batches for 45–60 seconds per side until golden. Remove and set aside.
- Step 2: Reduce heat to medium. Add sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and chilli flakes. Sauté 30–45 seconds until aromatic.
- Step 3: Add water, Sriracha, soy sauce, and brown sugar. Simmer for 3 minutes until sauce thickens slightly.
- Step 4: Return prawns to the skillet and toss to coat. Cook 1–2 minutes until sauce clings and prawns are heated through.
- Step 5: Garnish with sesame seeds, green onions, and sliced chillies. Serve immediately with rice or noodles.
Notes
Conclusion
Chilli Garlic Prawns are the perfect combination of fiery heat, garlicky goodness, and just the right touch of sweetness. They’re quick enough for weeknights yet impressive enough for guests. With minimal prep and bold flavors, this dish is guaranteed to become a favorite.
If you try this recipe, please leave a comment and star rating below—I’d love to hear your thoughts! And don’t forget to share your delicious creation on Pinterest or Facebook.
What twist will you add to make these prawns your own? Let me know in the comments!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use frozen prawns?
Yes! Just thaw them completely and pat dry with paper towels before cooking to avoid excess water.
How do I make this gluten-free?
Swap soy sauce for tamari or a certified gluten-free soy sauce alternative.
Can I adjust the spice level?
Absolutely. Use less Sriracha and chilli flakes for a milder version, or add extra fresh chilli for more heat.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
It’s best enjoyed fresh. While you can freeze cooked prawns, they may become rubbery after thawing.
How thick should the sauce be?
The sauce should be glossy and coat the prawns like a thin glaze. If it’s too watery, simmer a bit longer. If too thick, add a splash of water.