Orange Glazed Salmon Recipe

I’ve got to share this Orange Glazed Salmon Recipe with you because it’s become one of my absolute go-tos for a quick yet fancy-feeling dinner. The combination of fresh orange juice, a touch of honey, and savory soy sauce creates this heavenly glaze that transforms simple salmon into a restaurant-worthy dish without much hassle. Whenever I need something impressive but not complicated, this recipe delivers every time.

You’ll find that the glaze perfectly balances tangy and sweet, complementing the rich flavor of salmon without overpowering it. Plus, it’s wonderfully flexible—you can whip it up on a busy weeknight or serve it at a dinner party. Trust me, once you try this Orange Glazed Salmon Recipe, it’ll become your secret weapon to make salmon exciting and full of flavor.

❤️

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Effortless yet impressive: It’s a fancy-looking dish that comes together in under 30 minutes.
  • Balanced flavors: Citrus, sweetness, and umami blend perfectly to enhance the salmon.
  • Flexible and forgiving: You can adjust sweetness, thickness, or protein size to suit your taste.
  • Family-friendly: My family goes crazy for this—it’s always a hit at the dinner table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients create a harmony of flavors that really lets the salmon shine. Using fresh orange juice adds brightness, while soy sauce brings a savory depth. Here are a few shopping tips to keep in mind so you get the best results.

  • Butter: I prefer butter for richness, but olive oil works well if you want a lighter touch.
  • Salmon fillets: Fresh or thawed wild or farmed salmon both work—just pick thick pieces for juiciness.
  • Salt and pepper: Simple seasoning lets the glaze shine without overpowering the fish.
  • Orange juice: Fresh-squeezed makes a noticeable difference; bottled is fine if you’re in a pinch.
  • Honey: Balances the acidity and enhances the glaze’s stickiness.
  • Soy sauce: Adds depth and saltiness; low-sodium is a good option to control salt levels.
  • Garlic: Fresh minced garlic provides that perfect pungent kick to the glaze.
  • Cornstarch: Optional, but I use it to thicken the glaze for a luscious finish—whisked with water to avoid lumps.
Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

I love how this Orange Glazed Salmon Recipe invites a little creativity. Over the years, I’ve experimented with some tweaks that keep the core flavors but switch things up just enough to keep it fresh and exciting.

  • Spicy kick: I sometimes add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha to the glaze, which my family adores for a little heat.
  • Ginger addition: Grated fresh ginger gives a zesty lift to the glaze, making it perfect for an Asian-inspired meal.
  • Gluten-free option: Swap soy sauce for tamari or coconut aminos without losing that umami punch.
  • Different seafood: I’ve tried this glaze on cod and halibut with great success if salmon’s not on hand.

How to Make Orange Glazed Salmon Recipe

Step 1: Sear the Salmon to Golden Perfection

Start by heating the butter in your skillet over medium-high heat. When it’s melted and shimmering, season the salmon fillets generously with salt and pepper. Pop them skin side up in the pan and let them cook undisturbed for 3-5 minutes until that surface turns beautifully golden. This part gives you that caramelized flavor and irresistible texture.

Now, flip the fillets carefully—you want to keep them intact—and cook for another 3-4 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F. I always use a meat thermometer here to make sure it’s perfectly done without drying out. Once cooked, remove the salmon and tent it with foil—this keeps the fish warm and juicy while you make the glaze.

Step 2: Whisk Up the Zesty Orange Glaze

With the skillet still on the stove but heat lowered to medium, mix together fresh orange juice, honey, soy sauce, and minced garlic. If you want a thicker glaze (and I usually do), whisk in the cornstarch slurry made by combining cornstarch with cold water. Pour the mixture into the pan and watch it come to life—it thickens in about 30-60 seconds, turning glossy and sticky.

Tip: Stir continuously as it thickens to avoid lumps and prevent it from burning on the bottom. You’ll love the rich aroma that fills your kitchen at this point.

Step 3: Coat Salmon with the Glaze and Serve

Return the salmon fillets to the skillet and gently turn them to coat in that luscious orange glaze. You could even toss in a few fresh orange slices for both a pop of color and extra citrus flavor. I love watching the glaze cling to the salmon, promising every bite will be packed with flavor.

After just a minute or two of gently warming them together, your Orange Glazed Salmon Recipe is ready to plate. From here, it’s just about savoring those juicy, tangy bites.

👨‍🍳

Pro Tips for Making Orange Glazed Salmon Recipe

  • Use room temperature salmon: This helps it cook evenly and prevents the outside from overcooking before the center is done.
  • Don’t overcrowd the pan: Give each fillet some space so they sear properly and develop that lovely crust.
  • Prep the glaze ingredients ahead: It’s a quick step, so measure and mix before starting to cook the salmon for smooth workflow.
  • Check doneness with a thermometer: Avoids overcooking while ensuring safety and perfect texture every time.

How to Serve Orange Glazed Salmon Recipe

Orange Glazed Salmon, orange glazed salmon recipe, quick salmon dinner, healthy salmon recipes, easy salmon glaze

Garnishes

I like to crown my salmon with a few fresh orange slices or thin strips of orange zest for that extra zing and beautiful presentation. A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or green onions adds color and a fresh contrast to all the rich glaze. Sometimes, I toss in a few toasted sesame seeds for a bit of nuttiness and crunch—my family loves that little twist!

Side Dishes

This salmon pairs magically with fluffy jasmine rice or warm quinoa, soaking up every drop of that citrus glaze. For veggies, I’m all about roasted asparagus, garlic green beans, or a simple arugula salad with a light vinaigrette. Each side complements the fish without competing with its vibrant flavor.

Creative Ways to Present

For dinner parties, I’ve served this Orange Glazed Salmon Recipe over a bed of wilted spinach or alongside saffron-infused rice for an elegant touch. You could even plate it on a sleek white platter with microgreens and edible flowers to impress your guests visually. Adding a drizzle of extra glaze artfully on the plate elevates the whole experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the fridge and usually enjoy it within 2-3 days. Keeping it sealed well helps maintain freshness and prevents the glaze from making the container sticky. You’ll want to reheat gently to keep the salmon from drying out.

Freezing

I’ve frozen leftover salmon before, but the texture suffers a bit after thawing. If you want to freeze it, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag. I recommend freezing before glazing—then thaw and glaze freshly cooked salmon for best results.

Reheating

To reheat, I gently warm the salmon in a skillet on low heat, spooning some glaze over the top to restore moisture. Microwaving works too, but I do it in short bursts to avoid overcooking. Reheating slowly keeps the salmon tender and flavorful.

FAQs

  1. Can I use bottled orange juice in the Orange Glazed Salmon Recipe?

    Yes, you certainly can! While fresh-squeezed orange juice offers the best bright and natural flavor, bottled juice works well if you’re in a pinch. Just make sure it’s 100% orange juice without added sugars or flavors to keep the glaze tasting fresh and balanced.

  2. How do I know when the salmon is perfectly cooked?

    The safest and most reliable way is to use a meat thermometer; salmon is done when it reaches 145°F in the thickest part. The flesh should be opaque and flake easily with a fork. Cooking times vary slightly based on fillet thickness, so the thermometer is your best friend.

  3. Can I make this Orange Glazed Salmon Recipe ahead of time?

    You can prepare the glaze in advance and refrigerate it, then just reheat and brush onto freshly cooked salmon. However, I recommend cooking the salmon fresh for the best texture. Storing the fully cooked glazed salmon overnight can change the texture, but it’s still delicious when reheated carefully.

  4. What’s the best way to thicken the glaze?

    Whisking a cornstarch slurry (1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 teaspoon cold water) into the glaze is what I rely on to get that perfect thickness. It thickens quickly with gentle heat, adding a glossy finish that clings beautifully to the salmon.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so satisfying about serving this Orange Glazed Salmon Recipe to my family and seeing everyone’s delighted faces after the first bite. It’s easy enough for busy days but still feels like a special occasion dish. I hope you give it a try—you might find it becomes your new favorite for impressing guests or brightening up your weeknight dinners. Cooking salmon this way really showcases how simple ingredients, when combined thoughtfully, can create something truly delicious and memorable.

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Orange Glazed Salmon Recipe

Orange Glazed Salmon Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.5 from 143 reviews
  • Author: Jessica
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Description

This Orange Glazed Salmon recipe features tender salmon fillets cooked to perfection and coated in a sweet and savory orange glaze made with fresh orange juice, honey, soy sauce, and garlic. The glaze can be thickened with cornstarch for an extra luscious coating. Perfect for a quick, flavorful, and healthy dinner served with your favorite sides.


Ingredients

Units Scale

Salmon and Seasoning

  • 1 pound salmon fillets
  • Salt, to taste
  • Pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon butter

Orange Glaze

  • 1/2 cup orange juice (fresh squeezed from about 1 orange)
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch whisked with 1 teaspoon water (optional for thicker glaze)

Instructions

  1. Heat the Butter: Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat until melted and hot.
  2. Season and Cook Salmon: Season the salmon fillets evenly with salt and pepper. Place them in the skillet skin side up and cook for 3-5 minutes until the top is golden brown. Flip and cook another 3-4 minutes, or until the salmon reaches an internal temperature of 145°F at the thickest part.
  3. Rest the Salmon: Remove the cooked salmon from the skillet and place it on a plate. Tent loosely with foil to keep warm while you prepare the glaze.
  4. Prepare the Orange Glaze: Reduce the heat to medium. In a small bowl, whisk together the orange juice, honey, soy sauce, garlic, and the cornstarch slurry if you want a thicker sauce.
  5. Cook the Glaze: Pour the glaze mixture into the same skillet used for the salmon. Cook the sauce, stirring frequently, until it heats through and thickens in about 30-60 seconds if using cornstarch.
  6. Coat the Salmon: Return the salmon fillets to the skillet and spoon the orange glaze over them, coating thoroughly. Optionally, add extra orange slices for garnish.
  7. Serve: Serve the orange glazed salmon immediately with your choice of sides.

Notes

  • For a thicker, glaze-like sauce, use the optional cornstarch slurry. Omit it if you prefer a thinner sauce.
  • Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within 2-3 days for best quality.
  • Nutritional information provided is an estimate and can vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.

Leave a Comment & Rate this Recipe!

If you love this recipe, please consider giving it a star rating when you leave a comment. Star ratings help people discover my recipes online. Your support means a lot to me, I appreciate you.

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *