There’s something undeniably comforting about a bowl loaded with tender shrimp, crisp broccoli, and fluffy rice, all coated in a luscious honey-garlic sauce. This Honey-Garlic Shrimp & Broccoli Rice Bowls recipe brings together sweet, savory, and fresh flavors in a way that’s both satisfying and simple to prepare. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner or a meal prep favorite, this dish checks all the boxes. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal fuss, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality meal right at home.

Why This Honey-Garlic Shrimp & Broccoli Rice Bowls Stands Out

What makes these Honey-Garlic Shrimp & Broccoli Rice Bowls truly special is the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The shrimp is juicy and tender, glazed with a sticky honey and soy sauce blend that’s enhanced by the warmth of fresh garlic and ginger. Meanwhile, the broccoli adds a bright, crunchy contrast that keeps every bite refreshing. Coupled with steamed rice, it’s a complete meal packed with protein, veggies, and just the right amount of carbs. Plus, it’s incredibly quick to make — perfect for those busy evenings when you want something wholesome without spending hours in the kitchen.

If you love dishes with shrimp, you might also enjoy exploring recipes like Creamy Garlic Shrimp Tortellini or the flavorful Cajun Shrimp And Rice Bowls for a delicious change of pace.

Ingredient Notes

Shrimp: Use 1 pound of peeled and deveined shrimp. Medium or large sizes work best for this dish. Fresh or thawed frozen shrimp are both great options.
Broccoli florets: Fresh broccoli florets add crunch and vibrant color. You can also use frozen broccoli if fresh isn’t available.
Cooked rice: Choose brown or white rice depending on your preference. Brown rice offers more fiber and a nuttier flavor, while white rice cooks faster and has a softer texture.
Honey: Provides the sweetness that balances the saltiness of the soy sauce. Use pure honey for the best flavor.
Soy sauce: Adds umami and saltiness. Use low-sodium soy sauce if you want to control the salt level.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is essential for that pungent, aromatic kick.
Olive oil: Used for sautéing the shrimp and broccoli. You can substitute with avocado oil or any neutral oil.
Ginger: Freshly grated ginger adds warmth and a subtle spicy note.
Salt and pepper: To taste, enhancing all the flavors.
Sesame seeds: A sprinkle of sesame seeds adds a nutty crunch and visual appeal.
Green onions: Thinly sliced for garnish, providing freshness and a mild onion flavor.

Setup & Equipment

Large skillet or wok – for cooking shrimp and broccoli.
Measuring spoons and cups – to measure sauces and seasonings accurately.
Garlic press or fine grater – for mincing garlic and ginger quickly.
Wooden spoon or spatula – for stirring and tossing ingredients.
Knife and cutting board – to prep broccoli and green onions.
Bowl – to mix sauce ingredients before cooking.

How to Prepare Honey-Garlic Shrimp & Broccoli Rice Bowls

Step 1: Prepare the sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons of honey, 3 tablespoons of soy sauce, 2 cloves of minced garlic, and 1 teaspoon of freshly grated ginger. Set this flavorful mixture aside — it will be the star of your dish.

Step 2: Cook the broccoli

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 2 cups of broccoli florets, season lightly with salt and pepper, and sauté for about 4-5 minutes until they turn bright green and become slightly tender but still crisp. Remove the broccoli from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the shrimp

In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if needed, then add 1 pound of peeled and deveined shrimp. Season with salt and pepper. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side or until they turn pink and opaque.

Step 4: Combine shrimp and sauce

Pour the prepared honey-garlic sauce over the shrimp in the skillet. Toss to coat evenly and cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and glaze the shrimp beautifully.

Step 5: Add the broccoli back in

Return the sautéed broccoli to the skillet. Toss everything together gently so the shrimp and broccoli are coated in that sticky, flavorful sauce.

Step 6: Assemble the bowls

Spoon 1 cup of cooked rice into each bowl. Top with the honey-garlic shrimp and broccoli mixture. Garnish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and sliced green onions for a finishing touch.

Healthier Substitutions

Swap white rice for cauliflower rice to reduce carbs and boost veggie intake.
Use low-sodium soy sauce to lower sodium levels without sacrificing flavor.
Replace honey with pure maple syrup or agave nectar for a different natural sweetener.
Steam the broccoli instead of sautéing to preserve more nutrients and reduce oil usage.

Cook’s Commentary

This dish is a brilliant way to enjoy shrimp without complicated prep or exotic ingredients. The honey-garlic glaze is incredibly versatile and can be tweaked to suit your taste—add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you want some heat or a splash of rice vinegar for tang. The balance between the sweet sauce and savory shrimp is what makes this meal so addictive.

For an extra boost of flavor and texture, I sometimes add toasted cashews or sliced almonds on top. It’s also a fantastic recipe for meal prepping; just store the rice separately to keep it fluffy, then reheat with the shrimp and broccoli for a quick lunch or dinner.

If you prefer chicken, try this Chicken And Broccoli Stir Fry for a similarly delicious and quick meal.

Keep It Fresh: Storage Guide

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, microwave or warm on the stovetop until heated through, adding a splash of water or broth to keep the rice moist. For best texture, keep the rice separate from the shrimp and broccoli and combine just before serving.

You can also freeze the honey-garlic shrimp and broccoli mixture for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Ask & Learn

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes! Frozen shrimp works wonderfully — just make sure to thaw it completely and pat dry before cooking to avoid excess water in the pan.

What type of rice works best with these bowls?

Both brown and white rice are excellent choices. Brown rice adds a nuttier flavor and more fiber, while white rice offers a softer, more neutral base that lets the sauce shine.

How do I make this dish spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the sauce during step 1. You can also toss in sliced fresh chili peppers when cooking the shrimp for a fiery kick.

Can I prepare this meal ahead of time?

Absolutely! Cook everything ahead, store separately, and assemble just before eating. This keeps the rice fluffy and the shrimp tender.

Quick Weeknight Wins

Creamy Garlic Shrimp Tortellini – A rich and indulgent pasta dish that’s just as quick to whip up.
Cajun Shrimp And Rice Bowls – Bring some bold spices and zest to your dinner table with this flavorful option.
Chicken And Broccoli Stir Fry – A classic combo that’s perfect for busy nights and family dinners.

Ready to Cook?

This Honey-Garlic Shrimp & Broccoli Rice Bowls recipe is a perfect example of effortless cooking that delivers maximum flavor. Once you gather your ingredients and kitchen tools, you’ll be able to create a delicious, balanced meal in under 30 minutes. Whether for a solo dinner or feeding the whole family, these bowls will quickly become a favorite go-to. So, heat that skillet, mix up your sauce, and get ready to enjoy a bowl full of sweet, savory, garlicky goodness. Your taste buds—and your schedule—will thank you!

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