Description
This Chili Lime Grilled Shrimp recipe features juicy shrimp marinated in a zesty lime and smoky chili blend, then grilled to perfection. It’s a quick, flavorful dish perfect for weeknight dinners or cookouts, offering a balance of tangy citrus and gentle heat.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on optional)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lime, juiced (about 2 tbsp)
- 1 tbsp chili powder (or half chili powder, half smoked paprika)
- 1 tsp garlic powder (or 2 fresh garlic cloves, minced)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Add shrimp to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the marinade. Let it marinate for 15–30 minutes.
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F).
- Thread shrimp onto soaked wooden skewers (4–5 per skewer), leaving space between for even cooking.
- Grill shrimp for 2–3 minutes on each side or until they turn pink and opaque, and form a “C” shape.
- Transfer to a platter, garnish with fresh cilantro, and serve immediately.
Notes
- Soak wooden skewers for at least 30 minutes before use to prevent burning.
- Grill at medium-high heat (around 400°F) for best charring without overcooking.
- Do not marinate shrimp for longer than 30 minutes, as the lime juice can make them rubbery.
- Fresh cilantro adds brightness; substitute with mint or basil if preferred.
- Customize heat by adjusting chili powder or adding chipotle powder.
- For a sweet-spicy twist, add honey or agave to the marinade.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 minutes
- Category: Seafood
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (about 4 oz)
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Sugar: N/A
- Sodium: N/A
- Fat: N/A
- Saturated Fat: N/A
- Unsaturated Fat: N/A
- Trans Fat: N/A
- Carbohydrates: N/A
- Fiber: N/A
- Protein: N/A
- Cholesterol: N/A