Traeger Sweet Chili Shrimp is a deliciously smoky and flavorful dish that combines the natural sweetness of shrimp with a tangy, slightly spicy chili glaze. Cooked to perfection on a Traeger grill, this recipe delivers a mouthwatering balance of flavors that will impress seafood lovers and grilling enthusiasts alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The smoky flavor from the Traeger grill enhances the sweet and spicy glaze.
Quick and easy to prepare, making it a perfect weeknight meal or party appetizer.
The combination of sweet chili sauce and seasoning creates an irresistible taste.
Versatile enough to be served with rice, vegetables, or on skewers for a fun presentation.
A great way to enjoy restaurant-quality shrimp at home.

Ingredients

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

Large shrimp, peeled and deveined
Sweet chili sauce
Soy sauce
Garlic, minced
Ginger, grated
Lime juice
Olive oil
Salt and pepper
Red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
Fresh cilantro (for garnish)
Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Preheat the Traeger Grill – Set your Traeger to 375°F and allow it to preheat with the lid closed for about 10-15 minutes.
Prepare the Marinade – In a bowl, mix sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Marinate the Shrimp – Add the shrimp to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well coated. Let it marinate for about 15-20 minutes.
Skewer the Shrimp (Optional) – Thread shrimp onto skewers for easy grilling and flipping.
Grill the Shrimp – Place shrimp directly on the grill or on skewers. Grill for about 2-3 minutes per side until shrimp are pink and opaque.
Baste with Extra Sauce – During grilling, brush the shrimp with additional marinade for extra flavor.
Garnish and Serve – Remove from the grill, sprinkle with cilantro and sesame seeds, and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 6 minutes
Total Time: 26 minutes

Variations

Spicy Version: Add extra red pepper flakes or Sriracha to the marinade.
Coconut Twist: Mix in a little coconut milk for a tropical flavor.
Citrus Kick: Increase the lime juice and add orange zest for a citrusy twist.
Honey Glaze: Replace some of the sweet chili sauce with honey for a richer sweetness.
Vegetable Additions: Grill bell peppers, zucchini, or onions alongside the shrimp.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it may make the shrimp rubbery.
Freezing: Not recommended, as shrimp can become tough when thawed and reheated.

FAQs

How long should I marinate the shrimp?

For best results, marinate the shrimp for at least 15-20 minutes but no longer than an hour to prevent mushy texture.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, but thaw them completely and pat dry before marinating to ensure the best texture.

Do I need to use skewers?

No, but skewers make flipping easier and help prevent shrimp from falling through the grill grates.

Can I make this recipe in the oven?

Yes, bake at 375°F for about 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through.

What type of wood pellets should I use?

Hickory, cherry, or maple pellets pair well with seafood, adding a subtle smoky flavor.

Can I cook these in a pan instead of a grill?

Yes, cook in a hot skillet over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes per side.

How do I prevent shrimp from sticking to the grill?

Lightly oil the grill grates before placing the shrimp to prevent sticking.

What sides go well with this dish?

Steamed rice, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad complement this dish well.

Can I make the marinade ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the marinade up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative.

Conclusion

Traeger Sweet Chili Shrimp is an easy yet flavorful dish that brings together the perfect balance of sweetness, spice, and smokiness. Whether served as an appetizer, main dish, or party favorite, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home with minimal effort and maximum taste!