Easy Skillet Honey Garlic Salmon: Your Go-To Sweet and Savory Dinner in 25 Minutes
Prepare to elevate your weeknight dinner routine with this incredibly simple yet extraordinarily flavorful **Honey Salmon recipe**. Coated in a luscious, sticky-sweet, and savory glaze, this dish promises to deliver a burst of taste that will have everyone asking for seconds. Best of all, it comes together effortlessly in a single skillet, requiring just 25 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for busy evenings, this pan-seared honey garlic salmon is a healthy, delicious, and impressive meal that you’ll want to make again and again.
Why This Honey Garlic Salmon Recipe is a Must-Try
The magic of this garlic honey salmon lies in its perfectly balanced, delicate glaze. Imagine the richness of honey, the subtle heat of Asian sweet chili sauce, the pungent aroma of fresh garlic, and the umami depth of soy sauce, all harmonizing to create an explosion of sweet and savory flavors. This incredible sauce beautifully complements the flaky, tender salmon fillets, making every bite a delight.
We adore this glaze so much that it’s common practice in our kitchen to whip up a double batch. The extra sauce can be stored in a jar, ready to be drizzled over white rice, steamed vegetables, or even grilled chicken, instantly adding that signature sweet-savory kick to other dishes. This versatility makes the recipe not just a meal, but a secret weapon for enhancing various culinary creations.
While salmon can be prepared in countless ways – baked, grilled, broiled – there’s something uniquely captivating about a well-executed glaze. Whether it’s the popular teriyaki salmon, the subtly sweet maple soy salmon, or this irresistible honey garlic version, the tender and buttery texture of salmon fillets pairs exceptionally well with a sticky, flavorful coating. The glaze not only infuses the fish with incredible taste but also locks in moisture, ensuring a succulent result every time. Furthermore, salmon is packed with omega-3 fatty acids, making this dish not only delicious but also a fantastic choice for a healthy and nutritious meal.
Key Ingredients for Flavorful Honey Salmon
Crafting this delightful honey salmon requires just a handful of fresh, quality ingredients that come together to create an unforgettable flavor profile. The full list of measurements, ingredients, and detailed instructions can be found in the printable recipe card at the very end of this post. But first, let’s dive into what makes each component essential.
Ingredient Spotlight & Expert Substitution Tips
Understanding each ingredient’s role and knowing what substitutions are possible can make your cooking experience even more enjoyable and adaptable to what you have on hand.
- SALMON – For the best results, we highly recommend using center-cut salmon fillets. These cuts typically offer a more uniform thickness, which ensures even cooking. Aim for fillets weighing about 8 ounces each, which can be easily sliced from a larger piece using a sharp chef’s knife. Fresh salmon is always preferred over frozen for its superior texture and flavor. However, if frozen salmon is your only option, be sure to allow it to thaw completely overnight in the refrigerator before cooking. Patting the salmon dry with paper towels before seasoning is crucial for achieving a beautiful sear and preventing it from steaming in the pan.
- THE GLAZE SAUCE – The heart of this dish is its dynamic sauce, a masterful blend of sweet and savory elements.
- Honey: Provides natural sweetness and that characteristic sticky texture. Maple syrup can be a good alternative if you’re out of honey, though it will slightly alter the flavor profile.
- Soy Sauce: Adds a deep umami flavor and saltiness. For a gluten-free option, tamari works perfectly. Low-sodium soy sauce can also be used if you’re watching your sodium intake.
- Asian Sweet Chili Sauce: This ingredient is key for a sweet heat and a touch of tang. It brings a complexity that elevates the glaze. If you can’t find it, a mixture of sriracha (for heat) and a little extra honey or sugar (for sweetness), along with a dash of rice vinegar, can serve as a substitute, though the flavor won’t be identical.
- Minced Garlic: Freshly minced garlic is non-negotiable for its aromatic depth and robust flavor. While garlic powder can be used in a pinch, fresh garlic offers a much more vibrant taste.
- Cornstarch Slurry: A simple mixture of cornstarch and water (the “slurry”) is essential for thickening the sauce into that desirable glossy glaze. Without it, the sauce would remain thin and run off the salmon. There isn’t a direct substitute that provides the same thickening power and clear finish, but arrowroot powder can work similarly.
- Olive Oil: Used for searing the salmon in the skillet, ensuring it cooks beautifully and doesn’t stick. Any high-heat cooking oil like avocado oil or canola oil can also be used.
- Garlic Salt & Black Pepper: Simple seasonings that enhance the salmon’s natural flavor before it even meets the incredible glaze. Adjust to your personal preference.
How to Prepare Irresistible Honey Salmon
These step-by-step photos and detailed instructions are here to guide you visually through the process of making this recipe. For a concise, printable version of this recipe, complete with precise measurements and full instructions, simply Jump to Recipe at the bottom of this post.
The beauty of this honey garlic salmon is its straightforward approach. We’ll start by crafting the star of the show – the sticky, flavorful glaze – before moving on to perfectly searing the salmon fillets to a tender, flaky finish.
Phase 1: Crafting the Sweet & Savory Glaze
- Combine Ingredients: Begin by adding the honey, soy sauce, Asian sweet chili sauce, and minced garlic into a medium saucepan. Stir these ingredients together thoroughly to ensure they are well combined.
- Bring to a Boil: Place the saucepan over medium-high heat. Continuously stir the mixture as it heats up. You’ll want to bring it to a gentle boil, but be careful not to scorch the honey. Frequent stirring prevents sticking and ensures all flavors meld beautifully. Once boiling, immediately remove the saucepan from the heat to avoid over-reduction.
- Thicken with Slurry: In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water to create a smooth slurry. Return the saucepan with the glaze mixture to low heat, and gradually whisk in the cornstarch slurry. Continue to stir until the sauce begins to visibly thicken and achieves a glossy consistency. This process usually takes just a minute or two. Once thickened, remove from heat and set aside. This is your luscious honey garlic glaze!
Phase 2: Pan-Searing the Salmon to Perfection
- Prepare Salmon Fillets: If necessary, use paper towels to gently pat your salmon fillets completely dry. This step is crucial for achieving a beautiful crispy skin and an excellent sear. Season both sides of the fillets generously with garlic salt and black pepper according to your taste preferences.
- Heat Skillet: Add olive oil to a large, heavy-bottomed skillet (cast iron or stainless steel works best for searing) and heat it over medium-high heat. Allow the oil to get hot enough that it shimmers slightly but isn’t smoking.
- Initial Sear (Skin Side Down): Brush the seasoned salmon fillets with a generous amount of the prepared honey garlic sauce. Carefully place the salmon into the hot skillet, skin-side up (flesh side down). This initial sear on the flesh side helps develop a beautiful crust. Immediately after placing them, brush the skin side (now facing up) with additional sauce.
- Cook First Side: Cook for approximately 6 minutes. During this time, you’ll observe the flesh of the salmon beginning to change color, transforming from a vibrant pink to a lighter, opaque pale pink as it cooks through. This visual cue indicates that the salmon is cooking nicely.
- Flip and Finish: Carefully turn the fillets over with a fish turner spatula, allowing the skin side to now face down. Pour any remaining honey garlic sauce directly into the skillet around the salmon. Reduce the heat to medium. Continue cooking for an additional 3 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked to your desired doneness and the sauce is bubbly and further thickened, creating a beautiful glaze over the skin.
Frequently Asked Questions & Expert Tips for Perfect Salmon
Even seasoned cooks can benefit from a few extra pointers when it comes to cooking fish. Here are some common questions and our best advice for ensuring your honey salmon turns out perfectly every time.
Determining the doneness of salmon is key to preventing dry, overcooked fish. To test your fillets, gently press your finger (or the tip of a knife if it’s too hot) onto the top center or the thickest part of the fillet. If it begins to flake easily or separate into layers, it’s done. The flesh should change from a translucent pink to an opaque pale pink. Be cautious not to overcook, as this will result in a dry and overly flaky texture. For precise results, an instant-read thermometer is your best friend; salmon is perfectly cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 125-135°F (52-57°C) in its thickest part. Remember, it will continue to cook slightly from residual heat after being removed from the pan.
To keep your delicious honey salmon fresh, allow it to cool completely to room temperature before storing. Transfer any leftovers to an air-tight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheating salmon can sometimes be tricky as it tends to dry out. The best way to reheat is gently in a microwave on low power, or in a preheated oven at 275°F (135°C) covered with foil until just warmed through.
While salmon is best enjoyed fresh off the skillet, you can certainly prepare the honey garlic glaze ahead of time. Make the sauce, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When you’re ready to cook, simply warm the glaze slightly before brushing it onto the salmon. This makes for an even quicker meal prep on busy weeknights!
A heavy-bottomed skillet is ideal for searing salmon because it distributes heat evenly and retains it well. Cast iron or stainless steel skillets are excellent choices that help achieve a beautiful, crispy crust on the salmon. Non-stick pans can also work but may not give you quite the same level of browning and crispness.
Delicious Serving Suggestions for Honey Salmon
This versatile honey salmon pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes, allowing you to create a complete and satisfying meal. For a classic combination, serve your glistening salmon fillets over a bed of fluffy white rice, brown rice, or quinoa. The grains perfectly absorb the extra honey garlic glaze, making every forkful burst with flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider cauliflower rice.
To round out the meal and add a healthy dose of vegetables, choose your favorite roasted or steamed greens. Asparagus, green beans, broccoli, and Brussels sprouts are all excellent choices that complement the salmon’s rich flavor. You can even drizzle some of the reserved honey garlic sauce over your veggies for an extra layer of taste! A simple fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette also makes for a refreshing accompaniment.
Beyond the basics, think about garnishes to elevate your dish. A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds, a handful of chopped fresh cilantro or green onions, or a squeeze of fresh lime or lemon juice can add a vibrant finish and an extra pop of flavor. Enjoy this succulent honey salmon warm, directly from the skillet, for the ultimate culinary experience.
Explore More Delicious Salmon Recipes
If you’ve enjoyed this honey salmon recipe and are looking for more ways to incorporate this healthy and flavorful fish into your diet, we have a collection of other fantastic salmon dishes that are sure to impress. From rich and creamy to spicy and bold, there’s a salmon recipe for every palate and occasion:
- Stuffed Salmon: An elegant dish perfect for entertaining.
- Cajun Salmon: For those who love a bit of a spicy kick.
- Salmon Marinade: Learn the secrets to infusing your salmon with deep flavor.
- Brown Sugar Salmon: Another sweet and savory favorite.
- Crusted Salmon: For a satisfying crunch with every bite.
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Honey Salmon
IMPORTANT – There are often Frequently Asked Questions within the blog post that you may find helpful. Simply scroll back up to read them!
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Ingredients
- 2 pounds center cut salmon filets
- garlic salt to taste
- black pepper to taste
- 2 Tablespoons olive oil
Sauce
- ¼ cup honey
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 2 Tablespoons Asian sweet chili sauce
- 2 Tablespoons minced garlic
- ½ cup water
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
Things You’ll Need
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Saucepan
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Large heavy bottomed skillet
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Pastry brush
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Fish turner
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Whisk
Before You Begin
- Center cut salmon provides uniform thickness between your filets. Use a sharp chef’s knife to slice the filet into 4 smaller filets weighing about 8 ounces each. We highly recommend using fresh salmon over frozen. If you do have frozen salmon, allow it to fully thaw overnight in the refrigerator before using.
- To test your filets for doneness, gently press your finger (or the tip of a knife if it’s too hot) onto the top center or thickest part of the filet – if it begins to flake or separate then it is done cooking. If you overcook the filets, they will be dry and overly flaky. You may also use an instant read thermometer to check for doneness, salmon is finished when it reaches 125-135F in the thickest part of the filet.
- Store leftovers in an air-tight container kept in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Instructions
Make The Sauce
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Add honey, soy sauce, Asian sweet chili sauce, and minced garlic to a saucepan. Stir together well and bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring frequently. Remove from heat.
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Make a slurry from the cornstarch and water and whisk it into the sauce, heating just long enough for it to begin to thicken a bit. Remove from heat.
Preparing The Salmon
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If needed, pat salmon filets dry with paper towel. Season to taste with garlic salt and black pepper.
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Add olive oil to the skillet and heat over medium-high.
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Brush seasoned salmon filets with a generous amount of the sauce. Place salmon, skin side up into the prepared skillet. Brush the skin side with additional sauce.
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Cook for 6 minutes, the flesh will begin to change from pink to a pale pink as it cooks. Turn the filets over with a fish turner spatula.
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Add remaining sauce to the skillet and reduce heat to medium, cooking for an additional 3 minutes, sauce will be bubbly.
Nutrition
The recipes on this blog are tested with a conventional gas oven and gas stovetop. It’s important to note that some ovens, especially as they age, can cook and bake inconsistently. Using an inexpensive oven thermometer can assure you that your oven is truly heating to the proper temperature. If you use a toaster oven or countertop oven, please keep in mind that they may not distribute heat the same as a conventional full sized oven and you may need to adjust your cooking/baking times. In the case of recipes made with a pressure cooker, air fryer, slow cooker, or other appliance, a link to the appliances we use is listed within each respective recipe. For baking recipes where measurements are given by weight, please note that results may not be the same if cups are used instead, and we can’t guarantee success with that method.