1-First Step: Prep the shrimp and aromatics Start by peeling and deveining 1 pound of medium raw shrimp if that is not already done. Grate 1 to 2 garlic cloves and 1 inch of fresh ginger. This small prep step matters because the grated pieces blend smoothly into the sauce and coat the shrimp better. If you are short on time, garlic powder can stand in for fresh garlic, though the flavor will be a little softer.

2-Second Step: Mix the marinade In a bowl, combine 1/3 cup honey, 1/4 cup coconut amino liquid, the grated garlic, and the grated ginger. Stir well until the mixture is smooth. This is the flavor base for your high-protein honey garlic shrimp. If you want a more savory dish, use low-sodium soy sauce instead of coconut amino liquid. The sauce should taste balanced, with sweetness up front and a gentle salty finish.

3-Third Step: Marinate the shrimp Toss the shrimp with 1/4 of the marinade and refrigerate for 15 to 20 minutes. Marinating is optional, but it really helps the shrimp soak up flavor and stay tender. Because shrimp are delicate, keep the marinating time short. You do not need hours here. Just a quick rest is enough to make the honey garlic shrimp taste brighter and more layered.

4-Fourth Step: Sear the shrimp Heat 2 teaspoons olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook for about 2 minutes per side, just until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Avoid crowding the pan, since that can trap steam and slow down browning. If you are using chicken instead of shrimp, cut the chicken into small cubes and cook until it reaches a safe internal temperature.

5-Fifth Step: Thicken the sauce Remove the shrimp from the pan and pour in the remaining marinade. Cook it for about 3 to 4 minutes, stirring often, until it thickens into a shiny glaze. This step is what gives honey garlic shrimp its sticky finish. If the sauce seems too thin, give it another minute or two, but do not walk away. Honey can go from thin to too thick very quickly.

6-Final Step: Coat and serve Return the shrimp to the pan and stir until every piece is coated in the glaze. Finish with 2 teaspoons sesame seeds, 1 to 2 chopped green onions, and 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro. Serve with lemon wedges for a fresh squeeze right before eating. The lemon brightens the sweetness and makes the whole dish taste cleaner and more balanced. For a full meal, serve your high protein shrimp over rice, quinoa, or steamed vegetables.