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BBQ Grilled Shrimp on a hot fiery grill | JenniferCooks.com

When the grill's hot and the shrimp are fresh, these BBQ Grilled Shrimp Skewers come together in minutes-and they taste like summer on a plate. Juicy jumbo shrimp tossed in garlic, a smoky shrimp marinade, and just a hint of brown sugar make for the kind of shrimp kabobs that disappear as soon as they hit the table. It's the kind of recipe that feels fancy enough for company but easy enough for any night of the week.

Growing up in Clear Lake, a suburb of Houston, and just a short drive from Galveston Bay, shrimp was more than just seafood-it was a way of life. I learned early how to clean and devein shrimp, and I'll admit there was a certain pride in turning raw shrimp into a meal worth gathering around. Trips to Kemah meant watching the shrimp boats unload heaps of extra-large shrimp, fresh crabs, and oysters straight onto piles of crushed ice. Those markets smelled of salt air and promise-perfect places to dream up the next barbecue shrimp feast.

What I carried home from those trips wasn't just seafood; it was an appreciation for keeping things simple. Cooking shrimp doesn't need bells and whistles-just hot grill grates, a bold rub, maybe a splash of lemon juice at the end, and you're in business. Add fresh herbs for color, and you've got yourself an easy grilled shrimp recipe that works as a main dish, tucked into a shrimp taco, or even served over cauliflower rice if you're leaning toward healthy dinners.

That connection to Gulf Coast seafood culture is why I still love summer grilling recipes like these shrimp kebabs. They're quick, they're versatile, and they make the kind of meal that brings everyone to the dinner table. Whether you drizzle them with homemade BBQ sauce or keep them simple with citrus, these skewers prove that cooking shrimp doesn't have to be complicated-it just has to taste good.

The Gist

Cook Time: 6 minutes
Total Time: 26 minutes
Yield: Serves 8
Skill Level: Easy
Dietary Notes: Gluten-Free, Low Carb

Why You'll Love It

Works on a charcoal grill, gas grill, or indoor grill pan.

Quick and easy-on the table in under 30 minutes.

Made with simple pantry spices and fresh shrimp.

Perfect for summer cookouts, weeknight dinners, or appetizers.

Let's Get to Cookin'

Prepare the Spice Rub

Whisk chipotle chili powder, brown sugar, cumin, seasoned salt, and black pepper in a small bowl.

Season the Shrimp

Place shrimp in a large bowl. Add olive oil and garlic; toss to coat. Sprinkle the spice rub over the shrimp and stir until evenly coated. Let sit while the grill heats.

Skewer the Shrimp

Thread shrimp onto skewers, piercing through the head and tail. Use two parallel skewers per row to prevent spinning and make turning easier.

Grill the Shrimp

Preheat the grill to medium-high. Oil the grates lightly. Grill shrimp 2-3 minutes per side, until opaque pink and slightly charred. Remove to a platter and serve immediately.

✨ Scroll on down, friend. That full recipe's waitin' for you at the bottom. ✨

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Chef's Tips for BBQ Grilled Shrimp Skewers

Don't over-marinate - 15-30 minutes is plenty for shrimp.
Preheat your grill - ensures even cooking and prevents sticking.
Use double skewers - keeps shrimp stable and easy to flip.
Look for opaque pink - once the shrimp are pink all the way through, they're done.
Finish with citrus - a squeeze of lemon or lime brightens everything.

What to Serve It With

Smoky Chipotle Corn Salad
Grilled Smashed Potatoes with Rosemary and Garlic
Grilled Fresh Corn on the Cob
Grilled Asparagus

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just thaw and pat dry before seasoning.

Do I have to use chipotle chili powder?
No, smoked paprika works for a milder flavor.

What if I don't have a grill?
Use a grill pan on the stovetop for similar results.

How do I know when shrimp are done?
They're ready when opaque and firm, about 2-3 minutes per side.

Leftovers & Storage

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Reheat gently in a skillet or under the broiler for 1-2 minutes.
Freezing not recommended-shrimp can turn rubbery.

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Rubbermaid Brilliance Storage Containers

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Stick Around for Seconds

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Tried It?

Did you make these shrimp skewers? Leave a comment or tag your photos with #jennifercooks-I'd love to see your grillin' game.

What's for Dinner Next?

If those BBQ Grilled Shrimp Skewers hit the spot, keep the seafood streak going with these easy, crowd-pleasing mains-perfect for busy weeknights or a laid-back grill night on the patio.

Simply Grilled Wild Sockeye Salmon | JenniferCooks.com

Simply Grilled Wild Sockeye Salmon - Clean, bright, and fast: olive oil, salt, pepper, and a hot grill let the salmon shine.

Easy Baja Style Fried Fish Tacos - Crispy beer-battered fish tucked into warm tortillas with creamy Baja sauce and crunchy slaw.

Grilled Salmon Fish Tacos | Jennifer Cooks

Sweet and Spicy Salmon Fish Tacos - Grilled salmon with a sweet-heat rub and fresh citrus slaw for a lighter, zesty taco night.

Shrimp and Cheese Grits - Plump shrimp and smoky andouille over creamy, cheesy grits with Cajun spices.

Authentic Cajun Style Shrimp & Sausage Gumbo - Deep, cozy flavors from a dark roux with tender shrimp and andouille.

Easy Honey Mustard Roasted Salmon - Weeknight-friendly fillets glazed with honey, whole-grain mustard, lemon, and garlic.

*****

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BBQ Grilled Shrimp

Smoky, garlicky BBQ shrimp skewers with a hint of sweet heat-quick to grill, easy to love, and perfect for weeknights or backyard cookouts with family and friends.

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Course: Main Dish

Cuisine: American

Keyword: backyard bbq ideas, easy summer dinners, healthy grilling recipes, high protein meals, low carb dinner ideas, outdoor entertaining ideas, quick weeknight dinner

Prep Time: 20

Cook Time: 6

Total Time: 26

Servings:

Calories: 154kcal

Author: Jennifer Locklin

Equipment

Ingredients

3 pounds large shrimp 16 count, peeled and deveined, tails on
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 teaspoons chipotle chili powder
2 tablespoons light brown sugar
2 teaspoons ground cumin
2 teaspoons Lawry's Seasoned Salt
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
4 cloves garlic coarsely chopped

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