Why You’ll Love This Recipe

BBQ Grilled Shrimp Skewers are a quick and flavorful dish perfect for summer grilling, weeknight dinners, or entertaining guests. Juicy shrimp are marinated in a savory, slightly sweet barbecue blend, then grilled to perfection for a smoky char and mouthwatering taste. Serve them on their own, over rice, or with fresh salad for a complete meal.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

largeshimp (peeled and deveined)olive oilgarlic (minced)lemon juicebarbecue saucepaprikachili powdersaltblack pepperwooden or metal skewers

directions

Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes if using.

In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, barbecue sauce, paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper.

Add shrimp to the marinade, toss to coat, and refrigerate for 15–30 minutes.

Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates.

Thread the shrimp onto skewers, leaving a bit of space between each.

Grill the skewers for 2–3 minutes per side, or until shrimp are pink, opaque, and slightly charred.

Remove from grill and serve immediately with extra barbecue sauce or lemon wedges if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 4 servings.Preparation time: 10 minutesMarinating time: 15–30 minutesGrilling time: 6 minutesTotal time: 30–45 minutes

Variations

Use honey barbecue sauce for a sweeter glaze.

Add chunks of bell pepper, onion, or pineapple between shrimp on skewers.

Spice it up with a dash of cayenne pepper or hot sauce in the marinade.

Try a garlic butter glaze instead of barbecue for a different flavor profile.

storage/reheating

Store leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave for 30–60 seconds.Do not overheat to avoid rubbery texture.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just thaw them completely and pat dry before marinating.

Do I have to marinate the shrimp?

Marinating enhances flavor, but even 10–15 minutes makes a difference.

Can I cook these in a grill pan or oven?

Yes, a grill pan over medium-high heat or a broiler set to high will also work.

How do I prevent the shrimp from sticking?

Oil the grill grates or pan well before cooking, and avoid flipping too early.

Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?

Fresh or raw shrimp are best for grilling, as pre-cooked ones may become overdone.

Should I peel the shrimp before grilling?

Yes, peeling makes them easier to eat and allows more flavor to absorb.

Can I make these ahead?

You can marinate the shrimp a few hours ahead, but grill them just before serving.

Are these skewers spicy?

The level of spice is mild but adjustable with more or less chili powder.

What sides go well with grilled shrimp?

Try rice, grilled veggies, coleslaw, or corn on the cob.

Can I freeze grilled shrimp?

Freezing is not recommended, as texture may change after thawing.

Conclusion

BBQ Grilled Shrimp Skewers are a simple yet crowd-pleasing dish with bold flavors and a delicious char. Whether you’re firing up the grill for a casual dinner or a festive gathering, these skewers are sure to impress. Easy to prepare and quick to cook, they’re a go-to option for any seafood lover.