There’s nothing quite like the flavor of perfectly grilled salmon brushed with a sweet and smoky glaze.
This honey BBQ grilled salmon is juicy, tender, and packed with flavor, making it a quick yet impressive dish for weeknights or cookouts.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The honey BBQ glaze is the perfect balance of sweet, smoky, and savory.
It’s ready in under 20 minutes, making it a great weeknight dinner.
Grilling adds a light char that enhances the salmon’s natural richness.
Pairs beautifully with fresh lemon wedges for brightness.
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Fresh salmon fillets are the star of the dish—juicy and full of omega-3s.
Honey adds natural sweetness and helps caramelize the glaze.
BBQ sauce brings smoky depth and sticky goodness.
Smoked paprika adds a warm, smoky kick.
Lemon wedges brighten the flavors right before serving.
Pro Tips Before You Start
Pat salmon dry before brushing on the glaze for better searing.
Preheat the grill well so the salmon cooks evenly without sticking.
Brush the salmon with extra glaze during grilling for more flavor.
Don’t overcook—salmon is best when still slightly pink in the center.
How to Make Honey BBQ Grilled Salmon
Step 1 – Preheat the grill
Set the grill to medium-high heat and allow it to fully preheat.
Step 2 – Make the glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together honey, BBQ sauce, olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Step 3 – Coat the salmon
Brush the salmon fillets generously with the honey BBQ glaze.
Step 4 – Grill the salmon
Place salmon on the grill, skin-side down. Cook for 5–7 minutes.
Step 5 – Flip and finish
Flip carefully and grill for another 3–4 minutes, until cooked through and lightly charred.
Step 6 – Serve
Remove from the grill and serve hot with lemon wedges.
What to Serve Them With
Serve with grilled vegetables or a fresh garden salad.
Pair with rice pilaf or garlic mashed potatoes for a heartier meal.
Enjoy with a chilled glass of white wine or iced tea.
Variations / Substitutions
Swap salmon for trout or halibut for a similar flavor.
Use maple syrup instead of honey for a different sweetness.
Add chili flakes for a spicier glaze.
Storage & Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Reheat gently in a skillet or enjoy cold in a salad.
FAQs
Can I make this salmon in the oven?
Yes, bake at 400°F for 12–15 minutes, brushing with glaze halfway through.
Can I use skinless salmon?
Yes, but be extra careful when flipping on the grill to avoid breaking.
What type of BBQ sauce works best?
Any smoky or slightly sweet BBQ sauce pairs well.
How do I know when the salmon is done?
It should flake easily with a fork but still be moist inside.
Can I marinate the salmon ahead of time?
Yes, up to 30 minutes before grilling for deeper flavor.
Can I cook this recipe on a grill pan indoors?
Absolutely—it works great on a stovetop grill pan.
Final Thoughts
This honey BBQ grilled salmon is sweet, smoky, and perfectly charred.
It’s a fast, flavorful dish that feels restaurant-worthy yet simple enough for any home cook.
