This Easy Crispy Honey Garlic Glazed Salmon is the perfect fusion of sweet, savory, and crispy. In under 30 minutes, you’ll have a golden-brown salmon fillet that’s caramelized with a sticky honey garlic glaze and finished with a satisfying crunch. It’s an elegant yet simple dish that works just as beautifully for busy weeknights as it does for special occasions.
The glaze is made from a handful of pantry staples—honey, soy sauce, garlic—and transforms ordinary salmon into a flavorful, high-protein dinner that pairs wonderfully with rice, steamed veggies, or a fresh salad. Whether you’re looking for an easy dinner idea or something healthy and satisfying, this honey garlic salmon recipe delivers every time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & easy: Ready in just 25 minutes from start to finish.
- One-pan meal: Minimal cleanup with skillet-only cooking.
- Healthy & satisfying: High in protein and made with whole-food ingredients.
- Kid-friendly flavors: Sweet and savory glaze wins over picky eaters.
- Restaurant-quality at home: Crispy edges, tender flakes, and bold flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 4 salmon fillets (skin-on): Skin helps crisp and protect the fish as it cooks. Choose fresh, center-cut if possible.
- 1/4 cup honey: Adds sweetness and helps create the caramelized glaze.
- 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce: Adds umami depth and balances the honey.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced): Fresh garlic adds punchy flavor—don’t skimp!
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For searing the salmon and crisping the skin.
- Chopped green onions: Optional garnish for a fresh pop of color and flavor.
How to Make It
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the salmon: Rinse the fillets under cold water and pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels. This helps them crisp up during cooking.
- Make the glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, and minced garlic. Set aside.
- Sear the salmon: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place salmon skin-side down and cook for about 4 minutes or until the bottom is golden and crispy.
- Glaze & cook through: Flip the fillets. Brush half the glaze over the tops and cook another 3–4 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) and the fish flakes easily.
- Finish & serve: Drizzle the remaining glaze over the cooked salmon and garnish with chopped green onions. Serve hot.
Recipe Tips & Tricks
- Pat the salmon dry: Excess moisture prevents browning. Dry fish = crispy skin.
- Use a nonstick or well-seasoned skillet: Helps prevent sticking and tearing.
- Don’t overcook: Salmon continues cooking slightly after removing from heat. Aim for 145°F internal temp.
- Double the glaze: Want extra sauce for rice or vegetables? Make a double batch of the glaze.
Recipe Variations & Substitutions
- Dairy-free: Already dairy-free!
- Gluten-free: Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
- Spicy version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the glaze.
- No-skin salmon: You can use skinless fillets—just flip more carefully to avoid breaking.
Serving Suggestions
- Starches: Serve over jasmine rice, quinoa, or mashed sweet potatoes.
- Veggies: Pairs well with steamed broccoli, snap peas, or roasted asparagus.
- Salads: Try it with an Asian cucumber salad or sesame kale slaw.
- Drinks: A chilled sauvignon blanc or sparkling water with citrus works well.
Storage, Freezing, & Reheating Instructions
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Let salmon cool completely, then wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat or in a 325°F oven until warmed through. Avoid microwaving to preserve texture.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, just be sure to thaw it completely and pat dry to remove excess moisture before cooking.
What’s the best way to keep salmon crispy?
Start with a hot pan, cook skin-side down first, and avoid overcrowding. Don’t move the salmon around while it sears.
Can I bake this instead of pan-frying?
Yes! Bake at 400°F for 12–14 minutes, brushing the glaze on halfway through. Broil for the last 1–2 minutes for extra caramelization.
Is this recipe healthy?
Yes—it’s rich in omega-3s, high in protein, and made with wholesome ingredients like honey and garlic. Choose wild-caught salmon for maximum nutritional benefit.
Closing Thoughts + Call to Action
This Crispy Honey Garlic Glazed Salmon is a go-to dinner that looks impressive but comes together effortlessly. It’s perfect for everything from busy weeknights to elegant dinners, offering a restaurant-quality taste in a fraction of the time.
If you try this recipe, be sure to leave a star rating and comment below! Pin it for later, or share a photo of your finished dish on Instagram and tag us. For another quick and delicious dinner idea, check out our Garlic Butter Beef Bites recipe!