This honey garlic glazed salmon is tender, flaky, and coated in a sticky sweet and tangy glaze that tastes like it came straight from a restaurant kitchen. Baked to juicy perfection and finished with a glossy garlic-infused sauce, this quick 20-minute recipe is perfect for busy weeknights without sacrificing flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

It’s ready in just 20 minutes. From start to finish, this salmon goes from oven to table fast, making it ideal for weeknight dinners.

It’s baked, not pan-seared. No oil splatters or stovetop mess. The salmon roasts gently in the oven while the glaze reduces neatly in a pan.

It’s packed with bold flavor. Sweet honey, savory soy sauce, fresh garlic, and a splash of rice vinegar create the perfect balance of sweet, salty, and tangy.

It’s versatile. Serve it over rice, alongside steamed vegetables, or flake it into bowls and salads.

It looks impressive. The glossy glaze and tender fillets make this dish elegant enough for guests.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 pound fresh salmon fillets, cut into 2 to 4 equal pieces
3 tablespoons honey
2 large garlic cloves, finely minced
2 1/2 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons rice wine vinegar (not seasoned)
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
1 small bunch scallions, finely chopped (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C).

In a medium bowl, whisk together the honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, rice wine vinegar, red pepper flakes, and salt until fully combined. Set aside.

Lightly grease a baking dish or baking sheet with oil. Arrange the salmon fillets in a single layer.

Bake for 14 to 18 minutes, depending on thickness. The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork or reaches an internal temperature between 135°F and 145°F, depending on your preferred doneness.

When the salmon has about 10 minutes left in the oven, place a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, pour the honey garlic mixture into the skillet.

Let the glaze bubble rapidly for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring frequently. It should reduce by about half and become darker and thicker. Do not let it burn.

Remove the skillet from the heat immediately. The glaze will continue to thicken as it cools.

Once the salmon is done baking, gently transfer it into the skillet and spoon the glaze over each fillet until well coated.

Garnish with chopped scallions and serve immediately.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4 servings

Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 14 to 18 minutes
Total time: Approximately 20 minutes

Calories per serving: Approximately 222 kcal

Variations

Pan-seared version: Sear the salmon in a lightly oiled skillet for 3 to 4 minutes per side until golden. Remove, prepare the glaze in the same pan, then return the salmon to coat.

Maple twist: Substitute maple syrup for honey. The glaze will be slightly thinner with a subtle maple flavor.

Soy-free option: Replace soy sauce with coconut aminos for a milder and slightly sweeter flavor.

Citrus boost: Add 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice and 1/8 teaspoon orange zest to the glaze for a bright citrus note.

Sesame finish: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over the salmon before serving.

Extra heat: Increase red pepper flakes or add a small drizzle of chili oil for more spice.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

For best results, reheat in a 400°F oven for 5 to 10 minutes on a baking sheet, uncovered, until warmed through. This helps prevent overcooking.

You may also reheat in the microwave in 30-second intervals, covered loosely to retain moisture.

Cooked salmon can be frozen for up to 3 months, tightly wrapped. However, the glaze texture may change slightly after thawing. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheheating.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes. Thaw the salmon completely in the refrigerator and pat it dry before baking to ensure even cooking.

How do I know when salmon is fully cooked?

Salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature between 135°F and 145°F.

Can I use skin-on salmon?

Yes. Skin-on fillets work well. You can bake them skin-side down and remove the skin easily after cooking if desired.

Why isn’t my glaze thickening?

The glaze likely needs more time to reduce. Let it bubble a bit longer, stirring frequently. It will also thicken more as it cools.

What if my glaze becomes too thick?

Warm it gently over low heat while stirring to loosen it slightly.

Can I make this ahead of time?

It’s best served fresh, but you can prepare the glaze mixture ahead and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before cooking.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, substitute the soy sauce with gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos.

What sides pair well with honey garlic salmon?

Steamed rice, roasted vegetables, sautéed greens, quinoa, or a fresh cucumber salad all pair beautifully.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes. Simply double all ingredients. You may need to slightly increase the glaze reduction time.

Can I cook this at a lower temperature?

You can bake at 400°F instead, but increase the cook time by a few minutes until the salmon reaches the proper internal temperature.

Conclusion

This honey garlic glazed salmon delivers bold flavor, tender texture, and a glossy, irresistible finish in just 20 minutes. With simple ingredients and easy steps, it’s a dependable recipe you’ll return to again and again. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, this dish guarantees a delicious and stress-free dinner every time.

Print