Honey Garlic Salmon (Sticky Honey Garlic Glazed Salmon Recipe – Easy 20 Minute Dinner)
- Sarah Smith
- Mar 10
- 3 min read
Updated: May 4
This Honey Garlic Salmon recipe is sticky, sweet, and packed with flavor. Tender salmon fillets cook in a rich honey garlic glaze made with soy sauce and garlic for a quick 20-minute salmon dinner that tastes better than restaurant takeout. If you enjoy easy seafood recipes like Bang Bang Shrimp, Crispy Coconut Shrimp, or fresh bowls like Salmon Rice Bowls, this honey garlic glazed salmon is another delicious recipe to add to your weeknight dinner rotation.
Why You’ll Love This Honey Garlic Salmon Recipe
Sticky, sweet, and savory glaze packed with flavor
Ready in about 20 minutes for quick weeknight dinners
Restaurant-style salmon made easily at home
Perfect balance of garlic, honey, and soy sauce
Great served with rice, vegetables, or noodles
Recipe Card
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Nutrition Information
(Per Serving)
Calories: ~390
Protein: 34 g
Carbohydrates: 16 g
Fat: 20 g
Fiber: 0 g
Sugar: 14 g
Ingredients
4 salmon fillets (about 5–6 oz each / 140–170 g)
1 tablespoon olive oil (15 ml)
Salt and black pepper to taste
Honey Garlic Sauce
¼ cup honey (60 ml)
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons soy sauce (30 ml)
1 tablespoon rice vinegar (15 ml)
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (optional, thickens sauce)
Optional garnish
sliced green onions
sesame seeds
lemon wedges
Instructions
Pat the salmon fillets dry and season lightly with salt and black pepper.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Place salmon in the pan skin-side down and cook for about 4–5 minutes until the skin is crisp.
Carefully flip the salmon and cook another 3–4 minutes until nearly cooked through.
In a small bowl, whisk together honey, garlic, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil.
Pour the sauce into the skillet and let it simmer for 1–2 minutes.
Add the cornstarch slurry if you want a thicker glaze, and cook another 30–60 seconds until the sauce becomes glossy.
Spoon the sauce over the salmon and cook until the salmon is fully cooked and the glaze lightly caramelizes.
Remove from heat and garnish with green onions and sesame seeds.
Tips & Variations
Bake the salmon at 400°F (200°C) for about 12 minutes instead of pan-searing.
Add fresh ginger to the sauce for extra flavor.
Substitute maple syrup for honey for a different sweetness.
Serve over jasmine rice, quinoa, or noodles.
Add steamed broccoli or snap peas for a complete meal.
This honey garlic glazed salmon also works beautifully baked, grilled, or air-fried for an easy salmon dinner.
Make-Ahead & Storage
Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave to keep the salmon moist.
The honey garlic sauce can also be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
FAQ
Can I bake honey garlic salmon instead of pan-searing?
Yes. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 12–15 minutes, then brush with the sauce during the last few minutes of cooking.
How do I know when salmon is done?
Salmon should flake easily with a fork and reach internal temperatures of about 145°F (63°C).
Can this recipe be made with frozen salmon?
Yes. Thaw the salmon completely and pat it dry before cooking for the best texture.
What sides go well with honey garlic salmon?
Rice, roasted vegetables, steamed broccoli, noodles, or a simple cucumber salad all pair beautifully.
Final Thoughts
This Honey Garlic Salmon is one of those easy seafood dinners that tastes far more impressive than the effort required. The sticky garlic glaze, tender salmon, and rich flavor make it perfect for weeknight meals while still feeling special enough for guests.
If you enjoy quick seafood recipes like Thai Cucumber and Shrimp Salad, Hot Honey Shrimp Bowl, or fresh bowls like Garlic Shrimp Mediterranean Bowl, this sweet and savory salmon recipe is another delicious dinner to keep in your rotation.
