Name: Easy Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp You Can Make at Home
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 1 lb Medium shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 tsp Garlic powder; 1 tsp Onion powder; 1 tsp Kosher salt; 1/2 cup Cornstarch; 2 cups Vegetable oil (For frying); 1/2 cup Japanese mayonnaise (Regular mayonnaise can be substituted); 1/4 cup Sweetened condensed milk; 1/4 cup Honey (Maple syrup is a vegan substitute); 2 tbsp Lemon juice (Fresh squeezed preferred); 1/4 cup Glazed walnuts; 2 tbsp Scallions, sliced

Stepping into the kitchen, I can almost hear the sizzling of crispy shrimp and the sweet aroma of honey wafting through the air. It’s incredible how easy it is to recreate a restaurant favorite at home, especially with this quick copycat recipe for Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp. In just 20 minutes, you can whip up a dish that’s not only family-friendly but also a lighter alternative to heavy takeout—perfect for those weeknight dinners when you want something special without the fuss. Imagine satisfying your cravings while also impressing your loved ones with a delightful blend of textures and flavors. Are you ready to bring a taste of the restaurant experience right to your dining table? Let’s dive in!

Why is this Honey Walnut Shrimp Special?

Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 20 minutes, making it a lifesaver for busy weeknights.

Crispy Texture: Enjoy the delightful crunch of perfectly fried shrimp paired with sweet, glazed walnuts.

Healthier Choice: A lighter version of takeout, this dish allows you to indulge without the extra calories of heavy batter.

Family Favorite: Its creamy sweetness is sure to please even the pickiest eaters, making it a guaranteed hit at the dinner table!

Serve with Style: Pair it with coconut rice or steamed veggies for a complete meal that feels indulgent yet fresh. For more crowd-pleasing dishes, don’t forget to check out my Christmas Salad Festive and Baked Brie Puff recipes!

Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp Ingredients

For the Shrimp
• Shrimp – Use medium-sized, peeled and deveined for the best texture.
• Garlic Powder – Adds savory depth; fresh minced garlic works well too.
• Onion Powder – Enhances flavor; finely chopped onions can be a substitute.
• Kosher Salt – Essential for seasoning; table salt is saltier by volume.
• Cornstarch – Provides a light, crispy coating during frying; can be swapped with potato starch.
• Vegetable Oil – Choose oil with a high smoke point, like canola or peanut oil for frying.

For the Sauce
• Japanese Mayonnaise – Adds creaminess; regular mayonnaise can be a substitute.
• Sweetened Condensed Milk – Contributes sweetness and richness; full-fat coconut milk can approximate this flavor.
• Honey – Sweetens the sauce; maple syrup is a great vegan alternative.
• Lemon Juice – Provides acidity to balance the sweetness; fresh squeezed is preferred for brightness.

For the Garnish
• Glazed Walnuts – Adds sweetness and crunch; lightly toasted pecans can work if needed.
• Scallions – For freshness and color; chives can be used as a substitute.

Dive into the delightful world of Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp, and let these ingredients lead you to a delicious family meal!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp

Step 1: Coat the Shrimp
In a large resealable plastic bag, combine garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, and cornstarch. Add the medium-sized peeled and deveined shrimp, seal the bag, and shake vigorously until each shrimp is evenly coated. This coating will give your shrimp a delightful crunch once fried, setting the stage for the delicious Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together Japanese mayonnaise, sweetened condensed milk, honey, and fresh lemon juice until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This creamy sauce is essential to achieving the signature flavor of Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp. Set it aside to let the flavors meld together while you move on to frying.

Step 3: Fry the Shrimp
Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches around 350°F. Carefully add the coated shrimp in small batches, frying them for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown, opaque, and curled. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the shrimp to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil, ensuring they stay crispy.

Step 4: Combine
In a large mixing bowl, combine the crispy fried shrimp with the glazed walnuts, which will add crunch and sweetness to the dish. Pour the prepared sauce over the shrimp and walnuts, gently tossing everything together until evenly coated. This step ensures each bite of your Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp is flavorful and delightful.

Step 5: Serve
Transfer your delicious Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp to a serving dish and garnish with sliced scallions for a burst of freshness and vibrant color. Serve immediately over a bed of coconut rice or alongside steamed vegetables to create a balanced meal. Enjoy the burst of flavors and textures that this quick and easy dish brings!

How to Store and Freeze Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp

Room Temperature: Best enjoyed fresh; if left out, consume within 2 hours to ensure safety.
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Separate the shrimp and sauce to maintain texture.
Freezer: Freezing is not recommended as the shrimp may lose its crispy texture upon thawing.
Reheating: For the best texture, reheat in an oven or air fryer at 350°F for 5-10 minutes until heated through.

Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp Variations

Feel free to experiment with this recipe to make it your own and cater to your family’s tastes!

Air Fryer Option: Use an air fryer at 390°F for a healthier, crispy shrimp version in just 6-8 minutes.
Veggie Boost: Add snap peas or bell peppers for a colorful, nutritious twist that enhances the dish’s flavor and appeal.
Nut Alternatives: Swap glazed walnuts for lightly toasted pecans or almonds for a unique take without sacrificing crunch.
Spicy Kick: Drizzle sriracha or sprinkle red pepper flakes into the sauce for a delightful heat that balances the sweetness.
Coconut Milk Creaminess: Substitute sweetened condensed milk with full-fat coconut milk for a richer, dairy-free option.
Citrus Zest: Add a teaspoon of lime or orange zest to the sauce for an extra layer of refreshing citrus flavor.
Sugar-Free: Replace honey with a sugar-free syrup to create a low-calorie version for those watching their sugar intake.

For more ideas or tantalizing flavors, you might also enjoy my recipes like Pears Feta Honey and Christmas Salad Festive that complement this sweet and savory sensation!

Expert Tips for Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp

Oil Temperature Matters: Ensure your oil is hot enough before frying shrimp; a test shrimp should bubble immediately upon contact to achieve crispiness.
Fry in Batches: Avoid overcrowding the skillet to maintain the temperature of the oil, which prevents the shrimp from steaming instead of frying.
Keep Sauce Separate: To ensure your shrimp stays crispy, add the sauce just before serving. This prevents the coating from becoming soggy.
Garnish for Flavor: Don’t skip the scallions; they add not just color but also a fresh flavor that elevates the overall taste of the dish.
Substitutions Simplified: If certain ingredients are unavailable, like Japanese mayonnaise, regular mayonnaise will suffice while still maintaining a delightful flavor.
Serve Immediately: For the best experience, serve your Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp right after preparation. This ensures the dish maintains its ideal texture and flavor.

What to Serve with Quick and Easy Copycat Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp

With its crispy shrimp and creamy sweetness, this dish pairs beautifully with these delightful accompaniments.

Coconut Rice: The subtle sweetness of coconut rice complements the honey glaze perfectly, creating a harmonious balance with each bite.
Steamed Broccoli: Bright green florets provide a crunchy texture and add a nutritious element, enhancing the overall meal experience.
Garlic Green Beans: Tender green beans sautéed in garlic bring a fresh, savory flavor, elevating the dish alongside the sweet shrimp.
Fried Rice: A flavorful fried rice, tossed with peas and carrots, offers heartiness that pairs well with the lightness of the honey walnut shrimp.
Asian Cucumber Salad: Refreshing cucumbers in a tangy dressing provide a crisp contrast to the creamy dish, making each bite enjoyable.
Spring Rolls: Crispy spring rolls filled with veggies or shrimp create an excellent appetizer, setting the scene for a delightful Asian-inspired feast.
Chilled Sake or White Wine: A glass of chilled sake or a light white wine complements the flavors beautifully, making your dining experience even more special.
Sesame Noodles: These savory noodles with a touch of nuttiness are not only comforting but also add a deliciously chewy texture to your meal.
Mango Sticky Rice: For dessert, opt for mango sticky rice; the sweet mango and creamy coconut milk echo the flavors of the main dish while providing a sweet ending.

Make Ahead Options

Making Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp ahead of time is a great way to save you valuable time during busy weekdays! You can prep the shrimp by coating them with the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and cornstarch mixture up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate them in a sealed bag. The sauce can also be prepared ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply fry the shrimp as directed and combine with the sauce and glazed walnuts. This way, you’ll enjoy the same delicious, crispy result with minimal effort—the perfect solution for those hectic nights!

Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! For this recipe, it’s best to use medium-sized shrimp that are peeled and deveined. Look for shrimp that are firm and have a slight sheen. If you notice any dark spots or a strong odor, it’s best to avoid those. Fresh shrimp will yield the best flavor and texture, but frozen shrimp can also work; just make sure to thaw them properly before using.

How should I store leftovers of Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp?
Very easy! After enjoying your meal, let the leftovers cool down and then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Be sure to keep the shrimp and sauce separate to help maintain the crispiness of the shrimp.

Can I freeze the Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp?
It’s generally not recommended to freeze this dish, as the shrimp could lose their crispy texture upon thawing. However, if you must freeze it, fry the shrimp without the sauce and store them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen solid. Then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, reheat them in an oven or air fryer at 350°F for 5-10 minutes until crispy again.

What’s the best way to reheat leftover shrimp?
For the best results, I recommend using an oven or an air fryer to reheat your leftovers. Preheat either to 350°F, spread the shrimp out in a single layer, and heat for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through. This method helps revive the crispy texture—microwaving can make them soggy, so let’s skip that!

Are there any allergens I should be aware of for this dish?
Definitely a good question! This recipe contains seafood, dairy (from the mayonnaise and sweetened condensed milk), and nuts (from the glazed walnuts). If you’re making this for someone with allergies, you can substitute the mayonnaise with a dairy-free alternative and use a nut-free glaze for the walnuts. Always double-check with guests to ensure everyone’s dietary needs are met!