Salmon recipes don’t get easier or more flavorful than this crispy honey garlic salmon. With just six ingredients and under 25 minutes of total time, you’ll have a restaurant-style dish at home. The salmon fillets are pan-seared to create a golden crust, then coated in a sweet-savory honey garlic glaze that caramelizes perfectly. It’s the ideal balance of crispy texture and bold flavor—all without turning on your oven.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- 🍯 Sweet, sticky glaze pairs perfectly with tender salmon
- ⏱️ Cooks in under 10 minutes
- 🐟 Uses just 6 everyday ingredients
- 🍚 Great with rice, noodles, or roasted veggies
- 👌 Gluten-free friendly if using GF soy sauce
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets (skin-on preferred)
- ¼ cup honey
- 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Salmon
Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Dry skin ensures a crispy sear.
2. Make the Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, and minced garlic. Set aside.
3. Sear the Salmon
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add salmon fillets, skin-side down. Let cook undisturbed for 4 minutes until crispy.
4. Glaze and Finish
Flip the salmon. Pour glaze over each fillet and continue cooking for 3–4 more minutes, spooning the sauce over the tops. The glaze should bubble and thicken.
5. Serve
Remove from heat. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve immediately.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 8–10 minutes
- Total Time: 20–25 minutes
- Servings: 4
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – Estimated)
- Calories: 340
- Protein: 34g
- Fat: 16g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Sugar: 13g
- Sodium: 470mg
Tips & Variations
- 🔥 Don’t move the fillets while searing—this helps the crust form
- 🌶️ Add red chili flakes or sriracha for heat
- 🍋 Squeeze lemon juice at the end for brightness
- 🍁 Swap honey for maple syrup for a different twist
- 🧂 Use tamari or coconut aminos for gluten-free version
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, just thaw it fully and pat it very dry before cooking.
What’s the best pan to use?
A non-stick or cast iron skillet works best for crisping skin.
Can I bake this instead?
Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes and glaze at the end.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container. Reheat gently in a skillet.
Crispy Honey Garlic Salmon
Equipment
- Skillet (non-stick or cast iron)
- Mixing bowl
- Tongs or spatula
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets
- ¼ cup honey
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 green onions chopped
Instructions
- Pat salmon fillets dry.
- Whisk honey, soy sauce, and garlic in a small bowl.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Place salmon skin-side down. Sear 4 minutes.
- Flip, pour glaze over each piece, and cook 3–4 more minutes.
- Spoon sauce over salmon. Garnish with green onions. Serve hot.
Notes
Conclusion
When it comes to quick and satisfying salmon recipes, this crispy honey garlic salmon hits all the marks. It’s sweet, savory, and crispy all at once—with minimal cleanup and maximum flavor. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a family, this one-pan meal will quickly become a weeknight staple.