Name: Easy Crispy Honey Garlic Glazed Salmon Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Ingredients: 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each, skin-on or skinless); Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for crispier exterior); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 tablespoon butter; 1/3 cup honey; 3 tablespoons soy sauce; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or lemon juice; 1 teaspoon fresh grated ginger (optional); 1 teaspoon cornstarch + 1 tablespoon water (for thickening)

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it brings together bold, crave-worthy flavors in less than 30 minutes. The salmon develops a golden, crispy exterior thanks to a light cornstarch coating, and the honey garlic glaze is the perfect mix of sweet, savory, and just a little tangy. I can pair it with rice, noodles, veggies, or even toss it on a salad for a quick, delicious meal that never disappoints.

ingredients

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

salmon fillets (skinless or skin-on)
salt
black pepper
cornstarch
olive oil or neutral oil (for frying)
garlic (minced)
honey
soy sauce
rice vinegar or lemon juice
red pepper flakes (optional)
green onions or sesame seeds (for garnish)

directions

I start by patting the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel and seasoning both sides with salt and pepper.
I coat each fillet lightly in cornstarch to help develop that crispy crust.
I heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, then place the salmon in the pan. I sear it for 3–4 minutes on the first side without moving it, then flip and cook another 2–3 minutes until golden and cooked through. I set the salmon aside.
In the same pan, I lower the heat and sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds.
I stir in the honey, soy sauce, and vinegar, letting it simmer for 1–2 minutes until the glaze thickens slightly.
I return the salmon to the pan and spoon the glaze over each piece until fully coated and glossy.
I serve it hot, garnished with green onions, sesame seeds, or chili flakes if I want a little heat.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 2 to 4 people and takes about 20–25 minutes from start to finish. It’s ideal for weeknights when I want something quick but flavorful and satisfying.

Variations

I sometimes add a spoonful of sriracha or chili garlic sauce for extra heat. If I want a deeper flavor, I use maple syrup instead of honey. Orange juice and zest make a great citrus twist, and I’ve also tossed in thinly sliced bell peppers or broccoli florets to make it a one-pan meal.

storage/reheating

I store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, I use a skillet over low heat or the oven at 300°F (150°C) to preserve the texture. Microwaving works in a pinch, but it can soften the crispy crust. I keep extra glaze on the side and drizzle it on just before serving to freshen up the flavor.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, I make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry to get the best sear and texture.

What helps make the salmon crispy?

The cornstarch coating and searing over medium-high heat help create that crispy outer layer. I avoid overcrowding the pan and don’t move the fillets while they sear.

Can I bake this salmon?

Yes. I bake the salmon at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes, then pour the glaze on top and broil for 1–2 minutes to get some caramelization.

Is this dish sweet or savory?

It’s a mix of both—sweet from the honey, savory from the soy sauce, and balanced by garlic and vinegar. I can adjust the sweetness by changing the honey amount.

What sides go well with it?

I like serving this with jasmine rice, garlic noodles, sautéed bok choy, steamed broccoli, or a fresh cucumber salad. It’s also great over mixed greens for a lighter option.

Conclusion

Easy Crispy Honey Garlic Glazed Salmon is one of those simple yet unforgettable recipes that I keep coming back to. With just a few pantry staples and less than 30 minutes, I get a dish that’s crispy, sticky, savory, and full of flavor. It’s a winner every time—perfect for fast dinners or anytime I want something delicious without the fuss.