Name: Crispy Honey Garlic Glazed Salmon Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 17 min
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Ingredients: 4 salmon fillets (skin-on or skinless, about 6 oz each); Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 tablespoons cornstarch (for a crispy coating); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1/4 cup honey; 3 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium preferred); 3–4 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or lemon juice; 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for heat); 1 tablespoon water + 1 teaspoon cornstarch (for thickening, optional)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this recipe delivers bold flavor with very little effort. The contrast between the crisp sear on the salmon and the sticky glaze makes every bite satisfying. It’s versatile enough for weeknight dinners or impressing guests, and I only need one pan to bring it all together. The glaze alone is so good, I could eat it with a spoon.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Salmon fillets (skin-on or skinless)
Salt
Black pepper
Olive oil or avocado oil (for searing)
Minced garlic
Honey
Soy sauce
Lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
Optional garnish: green onions, sesame seeds, or red pepper flakes

Directions

I start by patting the salmon fillets dry with paper towels and seasoning both sides with salt and pepper.
I heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, I place the salmon fillets skin-side down (if using skin-on) and sear for about 4–5 minutes until crispy.
I flip and cook the other side for another 2–4 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets, until cooked through. Then I remove the salmon from the skillet and set it aside.
In the same skillet, I reduce the heat and add the minced garlic, sautéing for 30 seconds until fragrant.
I stir in the honey, soy sauce, and lemon juice, bringing the mixture to a simmer. It thickens into a glossy glaze in about 2–3 minutes.
I return the salmon to the pan, spooning the glaze over each fillet to coat it well.
After a minute or two, I remove everything from heat and serve immediately with a sprinkle of green onions or sesame seeds.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people.

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

Sometimes I add a splash of rice vinegar or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the glaze for extra brightness or heat. I’ve also used maple syrup instead of honey when I want a deeper sweetness. For a lighter version, I bake the salmon instead of searing it and drizzle the glaze on top after baking. And when I want extra crunch, I dust the salmon lightly with cornstarch before searing.

storage/reheating

If I have leftovers, I store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I gently warm the salmon in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water to loosen the glaze, or I use the microwave in short bursts. I avoid overcooking it when reheating, so the salmon stays moist and flaky.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, I do it often. I just make sure the salmon is completely thawed and patted dry before cooking so it gets crispy.

How do I know when the salmon is fully cooked?

I check that it flakes easily with a fork and the center is opaque. If I’m using a thermometer, I look for an internal temperature of 125–130°F for medium.

What sides go well with honey garlic salmon?

I like serving it with steamed rice, sautéed green beans, roasted broccoli, or even a simple cucumber salad to balance the rich glaze.

Can I bake the salmon instead of pan-searing?

Yes, when I want a hands-off option, I bake it at 400°F for 12–15 minutes, then spoon the glaze over before serving or broil for a minute to caramelize it.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

It can be. I just swap out the soy sauce for tamari or a certified gluten-free soy sauce, and everything else stays the same.

Conclusion

This crispy honey garlic glazed salmon is one of my favorite go-to meals when I want something fast, flavorful, and just a little indulgent. The crispy sear, sticky glaze, and tender fish always come together perfectly in one pan. Whether I’m serving it on a busy weeknight or cooking to impress, this recipe never disappoints.

Crispy Honey Garlic Glazed Salmon Recipe