Honey Garlic Glazed Salmon Recipe | Easy Weeknight Dinner

Tender, flaky salmon coated in a sweet and savory honey garlic glaze, then baked until beautifully caramelized. This easy honey garlic salmon recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner and is ready in about 25 minutes.

DINNER

8/12/20262 min read

Honey Garlic Glazed Salmon

Tender, flaky salmon coated in a sweet and savory honey garlic glaze, then baked until beautifully caramelized. This easy honey garlic salmon recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner and is ready in about 25 minutes.

Honey Garlic Glazed Salmon

Tender, flaky salmon coated in a sweet and savory honey garlic glaze, then baked until beautifully caramelized. This easy honey garlic salmon recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner and is ready in about 25 minutes.

Recipe Details

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes

  • Cook Time: 15 minutes

  • Total Time: 25 minutes

  • Servings: 4

  • Category: Dinner

  • Cuisine: American

  • Difficulty: Easy

Ingredients

For the Salmon

  • 4 salmon fillets, about 6 oz each

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • ½ teaspoon salt

  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

  • ½ teaspoon paprika

  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder

For the Honey Garlic Glaze

  • ¼ cup honey

  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce

  • 4 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

  • 1 tablespoon butter, melted

  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika

  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional

  • 1 teaspoon fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a baking dish.

  2. Season the salmon. Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Brush them with olive oil, then season with salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.

  3. Make the honey garlic glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, lemon juice, melted butter, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes.

  4. Glaze the salmon. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Spoon or brush the honey garlic sauce generously over each piece.

  5. Bake for 12–15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the salmon. Brush with additional glaze halfway through cooking.

  6. Caramelize the glaze. For an extra glossy and slightly caramelized finish, broil the salmon for 1–2 minutes at the end. Watch carefully so the honey doesn't burn.

  7. Garnish and serve. Remove from the oven and spoon some of the remaining pan sauce over the salmon. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

What to Serve With Honey Garlic Salmon

This salmon pairs beautifully with:

  • Garlic butter rice

  • Steamed broccoli

  • Roasted asparagus

  • Mashed potatoes

  • Green beans

  • Roasted vegetables

  • A fresh garden salad

Recipe Tips

Use fresh salmon: Fresh, center-cut salmon fillets work especially well because they stay moist and tender while baking.

Don't overcook the salmon: Salmon is best when it is just cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of your fillets.

Watch the broiler: Because the glaze contains honey, it can caramelize very quickly. Keep a close eye on the salmon during the final broiling step.

Make it spicy: Add extra red pepper flakes or a small amount of hot sauce to the glaze for a spicy honey garlic salmon.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make honey garlic salmon in the oven?

Yes. Baking is one of the easiest ways to make honey garlic salmon. Bake at 400°F for about 12–15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets.

Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes. For the best results, thaw the salmon completely and pat it dry before seasoning and glazing.

Can I make this recipe in an air fryer?

Yes. Air fry the salmon at 400°F for approximately 8–10 minutes, depending on thickness. Brush with the glaze before cooking and again near the end.

How do I store leftover salmon?

Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently so the salmon doesn't dry out.