Name: Time 15 minutes Total Time 25 minutes Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 1 ½ lb salmon, skin removed and cut into 1-inch cubes; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; ¾ teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon ground black pepper; 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided; 2 teaspoons garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ginger, grated; 3 tablespoons soy sauce; 2 tablespoons rice vinegar; ¼ cup honey; 2 teaspoons sesame seeds; 2 teaspoons chopped chives

Jump to Recipe· 4.8 from 24 reviews

If you’re craving a fuss-free dinner that’s both dazzling and delicious, this honey glazed salmon delivers on all counts. It comes together so quickly that the only numbers you need to remember are 25 minutes—a promise of fast prep and bold flavor. Featuring tender cubes of salmon kissed with a sticky, savory-sweet glaze, this dish is simple enough for your busiest weeknight and impressive enough to serve at your next gathering. Pair it with fluffy rice and some crisp-tender veggies for a bright, satisfying meal you’ll want to make again and again.

Time
15 minutes
Total Time
25 minutes Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This lineup of ingredients may be simple, but each one plays a crucial role in making your salmon pop with flavor, color, and texture. Here’s how to make every element shine in your kitchen:

Salmon: Choose fresh, skinless salmon for the juiciest, most tender bites.
Paprika: Adds a hint of warmth and a beautiful color to each cube.
Garlic powder: Gives a mellow, savory note that infuses every piece.
Onion powder: Boosts the umami without overpowering the glaze.
Salt: Enhances all the other flavors and balances the sweetness.
Black pepper: Provides a gentle heat and earthy depth.
Olive oil: Helps crisp up the salmon and brings a silky finish to the glaze.
Fresh garlic: Use minced garlic for a burst of aromatic flavor.
Ginger: Grated ginger adds zingy freshness to the sauce.
Soy sauce: Gives the glaze its salty-sweet backbone.
Rice vinegar: Brightens the sauce with just the right touch of tang.
Honey: The star of the glaze, delivering a beautiful sheen and delicate sweetness.
Sesame seeds: Sprinkle for a touch of nuttiness and extra texture.
Chopped chives: Adds a pop of color and gentle onion flavor to finish.

How to Make Honey Glazed Salmon Recipe

Step 1: Season the Salmon

Start by patting your salmon cubes dry—this is the secret to that irresistible crispy finish. In a bowl, combine them with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Pour in about a tablespoon of olive oil and gently massage everything together, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated in seasoning. This first step lays down layers of flavor before your salmon ever hits the pan.

Step 2: Sear to Perfection

Heat a heavy skillet over medium-high and swirl in a tablespoon of olive oil. Arrange the salmon cubes in a single layer (don’t crowd the pan!) and cook, flipping often, for 4-5 minutes. Your goal: golden, crispy edges that stand up to the sticky glaze. Once your salmon bites look impossibly good, transfer to a plate and repeat as needed with any remaining fish.

Step 3: Build the Flavorful Glaze

In the same skillet, lower the heat a touch and add the remaining olive oil. Toss in the minced garlic and grated ginger, stirring for about a minute. This wakes up all those fragrant notes that make your sauce sing. Immediately follow with soy sauce, rice vinegar, and honey. Let the sauce simmer gently for 3-5 minutes—it will thicken into a glossy, mouthwatering glaze.

Step 4: Glaze and Toss

Turn off the heat and nestle the crisped salmon cubes back into the skillet, tossing until every piece gleams with sauce. Taste and adjust your seasonings if you like—a pinch more salt or a swirl of honey, depending on your mood. Now it’s time for the finishing touch: sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped chives right before serving.

How to Serve Honey Glazed Salmon Recipe

Garnishes

A shower of sesame seeds and a scattering of fresh chives aren’t just for looks—they add subtle pops of flavor and elevate your honey glazed salmon to dinner-party territory. If you’re feeling extra, a little squeeze of lime or a few curls of pickled ginger can make this dish sing.

Side Dishes

This dish practically begs for a bed of fluffy jasmine rice, which soaks up any extra glaze like a dream. For a complete meal, try quick-steamed green beans, broccoli, or snow peas. Their freshness provides contrast to the sweet, sticky salmon, keeping each bite balanced and lively.

Creative Ways to Present

For a weeknight meal, simply spoon the salmon over a pile of rice and let everyone dig in. If you’re entertaining, thread the glazed cubes onto small skewers for salmon bites, or serve atop crispy rice cakes for an elegant appetizer. However you plate it, this recipe always impresses.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover honey glazed salmon keeps surprisingly well! Cool to room temperature, then transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. The flavor deepens, making it just as enjoyable the next day atop a salad or in a grain bowl.

Freezing

Yes, you can freeze the cooked salmon cubes (glazed and all). Arrange them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a zip-top freezer bag. They’ll keep for up to a month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator when you’re ready for a quick, impressive meal.

Reheating

For best results, reheat your leftovers gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water to loosen the glaze. Microwave works in a pinch, but the oven or skillet helps maintain those crave-worthy textures.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe in the air fryer?

Absolutely! Preheat your air fryer to 390°F, arrange the salmon cubes in a single layer, and cook for 7-9 minutes, flipping halfway through. It results in beautifully crisped salmon in less time.

Should I marinate the salmon?

If you have extra time, let the seasoned salmon marinate for 30 minutes to an hour before cooking. This amplifies the flavors, but don’t worry if you’re in a hurry—the dish is fabulous even with the express prep.

Can I substitute chicken or shrimp?

Definitely! Follow the same method, but adjust the cooking time as needed—shrimp cooks fastest, followed by chicken. The sweet-salty glaze pairs wonderfully with either protein, so you can use the method with your favorite options.

How do I get the salmon extra crispy?

The key is to pat the salmon cubes very dry before seasoning, and avoid overcrowding in the pan. This ensures each piece develops that golden crust without steaming.

What if I want my glaze spicy?

Try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the seasoning blend or a squirt of sriracha to the glaze. You’ll get sweet heat that takes the already bold flavor of honey glazed salmon to the next level.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a memorable meal you can whip up in record time, this honey glazed salmon recipe proves that is all you need for a fresh, colorful dinner the whole table will love. Don’t be surprised if it earns a regular spot in your rotation!