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BBQ Shrimp Skewers

Yields4 ServingsPrep Time15 minsCook Time15 minsTotal Time30 mins

BBQ Shrimp Skewers are juicy, smoky shrimp marinated in a bold barbecue glaze and grilled to perfection in minutes. This easy BBQ shrimp skewer recipe is perfect for summer grilling, quick weeknight dinners, or impressive backyard entertaining.

BBQ Shrimp Skewers

For the Shrimp
 1 ½ lbs large shrimp (16–20 count), peeled & deveined
 1 tbsp olive oil
 Salt & black pepper, to taste
BBQ Marinade / Glaze
 ½ cup BBQ sauce (sweet, smoky, or spicy)
 1 tbsp honey or brown sugar
 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice or apple cider vinegar
 1 tsp smoked paprika
 1 clove garlic, minced
 ½ tsp chili flakes or cayenne (optional)
For Serving
 Lemon wedges
 Chopped fresh parsley or cilantro
Prep the shrimp
1

  • Pat shrimp dry with paper towels.

  • Toss lightly with olive oil, salt, and pepper.

Make the BBQ marinade
2

  • In a bowl, whisk BBQ sauce, honey, lemon juice, paprika, garlic, and chili flakes.

  • Reserve ¼ cup for brushing after grilling.

Marinate
3

  • Toss shrimp in remaining marinade.

  • Let sit 15–30 minutes (do not exceed 30 minutes).

Skewer
4

  • Thread shrimp onto skewers (4–5 shrimp per skewer).

  • Use metal skewers or soak wooden ones for 30 minutes.

Grill
5

  • Preheat grill to medium-high heat (400–450°F / 205–230°C).

  • Oil grates well.

  • Grill skewers 2–3 minutes per side, until shrimp are opaque and lightly charred.

Glaze & finish
6

  • Brush shrimp with reserved BBQ sauce during final minute.

  • Remove from grill and rest briefly.

Side Information (Perfect Shrimp Pairings)
7

  • Cilantro-lime rice

  • Grilled corn on the cob

  • Coleslaw or cucumber salad

  • Grilled zucchini or asparagus

  • Garlic bread or flatbread

Pairing Suggestions
8

  • Beer: Light lager, wheat beer, or pilsner

  • Wine: Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or dry rosé

  • Non-alcoholic: Lemonade, iced green tea, or sparkling citrus water

Tips & Notes
9

  • Shrimp cook fast—overcooking = rubbery.

  • Sauce late to prevent burning sugars.

  • Add pineapple, red onion, or bell peppers to mixed skewers.

  • Want heat? Add chipotle powder or hot sauce to the glaze.

  • These skewers also work beautifully under a broiler or grill pan.

Nutrition Facts

4 servings

Serving size