Description
This Baked Chili Lime Shrimp recipe offers a quick and flavorful dish featuring succulent shrimp marinated in a zesty blend of lime juice, garlic, and chili spices, then baked to perfection. With a hint of heat and a burst of citrus, it’s perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner or a tasty appetizer.
Ingredients
Scale
Shrimp Marinade
- 1 pound shrimp (31-40 count size, thawed and peeled)
- 1/2 tablespoon olive oil
- Juice and zest of 1 lime
- 5-6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tablespoon chili powder
- Cayenne pepper, to taste (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Finishing
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and adjust the oven rack to the middle position to ensure even cooking of the shrimp.
- Marinate shrimp: Place the shrimp in a large Ziploc bag along with olive oil, lime juice and zest, minced garlic, chili powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Seal the bag and gently shake to coat the shrimp evenly. Refrigerate and marinate for 10 minutes to allow flavors to infuse.
- Prepare for baking: Transfer the marinated shrimp and all the marinade into a baking dish. Cut the butter into small pieces and distribute them evenly across the shrimp for added richness and flavor during baking.
- Bake shrimp: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes until the shrimp are pink, opaque, and cooked through. Be careful not to overcook to maintain a tender texture.
- Garnish and serve: Remove the shrimp from the oven and immediately sprinkle with freshly chopped cilantro or parsley. Serve hot as a main dish or appetizer.
Notes
- Use medium to large shrimp (31-40 count) for best texture and flavor.
- Adjust cayenne pepper to your preferred spice level or omit for milder taste.
- To prevent overcooking, check shrimp at 12 minutes and remove as soon as they turn pink and opaque.
- This dish pairs well with rice, quinoa, or a crisp salad for a balanced meal.
- For a dairy-free option, omit butter or substitute with a plant-based alternative.
