If you’re craving an easy weeknight meal that feels both cozy and elevated, this Brown Sugar Soy Glazed Salmon with Creamy Orzo is it. The salmon is glazed with a buttery, tangy-sweet sauce that caramelizes beautifully in the oven, while the creamy garlic orzo makes the perfect side to soak up every drop of flavor! They pair so well together & perfect for a busy weeknight! (ready in just 20 minutes!)
This is truly one of my absolute favorite ways to make salmon in the oven! It's great for picky eaters & such an easy dinner that ready in just 20 minutes that the entire family will enjoy!
If you love an easy weeknight dinner like this brown sugar soy glaze salmon, you are also going to LOVE my hot honey glazed salmon, air fryer teriyaki salmon bites & my salmon feta pasta bake!
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Ingredients
- Honey
- Red Pepper Flakes
- Soy Sauce
- Unsalted Butter
- Fresh Lemon Juice
- Cornstarch
- Brown Sugar
- Fresh Salmon Fillets
- Olive Oil
See recipe card for quantities.
Instructions & Video
Make the brown sugar soy glazed salmon sauce!
Salt & pepper the fresh salmon fillets & brush them with olive oil!
After baking for 15 minutes, add the sauce & broil for 5 more minutes to caramelize!
Serve overtop the creamy orzo & enjoy!
Make the Sweet Glaze
- In a small saucepan over medium-low heat, combine honey, brown sugar, chili flakes, soy sauce, 2 tablespoon butter, tablespoon lemon juice, and water. Simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in the cornstarch slurry. Return to medium heat and cook for another 5 minutes, until thickened.
- Finish with the remaining 2 tablespoon cold butter for a silky, glossy finish. Set aside.
Prepare the Salmon
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
- Season salmon filets with salt and black pepper, then brush with olive oil (making sure the salmon skin side is down). Arrange on the tray.
Bake and Glaze
- Bake salmon in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. Remove from the oven and spoon 1–2 tablespoon of glaze over each filet, letting some drip onto the tray.
- Return to the oven for another 5 minutes, until salmon is flaky and caramelized.
Make the Creamy Orzo
- Cook orzo in salted water until al dente. Drain and rinse to prevent overcooking.
- Return to the pot over medium heat. Stir in heavy cream, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Let simmer for 5 minutes, until the sauce thickens and coats the pasta.
- Stir in fresh parsley if using.
Serve
- Plate the salmon over a scoop of creamy orzo, drizzle with extra glaze, and garnish with more parsley or sesame seeds.
- (I love pairing it with this creamy orzo, one of my absolute favorite side dishes!)
Scroll all the way down for the full recipe card!
Substitutions
- Honey: Maple syrup or agave nectar for a similar sweetness.
- Chili Flakes: Cayenne pepper, hot sauce, or smoked paprika for a spicy kick.
- Soy Sauce: Tamari (for gluten-free) or coconut aminos for a milder, slightly sweet alternative.
- Unsalted Butter: Salted butter (reduce added salt) or ghee for a similar rich flavor.
- Lemon Juice: Lime juice, rice wine vinegar, or dijon mustard for extra flavor
- Cornstarch: Arrowroot powder or all-purpose flour as a thickener.
- Salmon Filets: Trout, cod, or tilapia for a similar flaky texture.
- Olive Oil: Avocado oil, canola oil, or melted coconut oil for cooking.
This is the perfect weeknight meal for the whole family to enjoy, the flavourful glaze pairs so well with the creamy orzo! It's truly my best salmon recipe yet! It's also considered a healthy meal because salmon is considered one of the healthiest proteins you can eat because it’s packed with nutrients that support heart, brain, and overall body health! Such a delicious way to get protein in!
Equipment
- Saucier
- Measuring Cups & Spoons
- Whisk & small bowl
- Baking Tray & Baking Paper (easy clean-up)
Storage
Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in the oven at 350°F or in a skillet over low heat to maintain its moisture. The hot honey sauce can be refrigerated separately and reheated on the stovetop or microwave before serving. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Top tips for success!
- Smooth Sauce: Mix the cornstarch slurry thoroughly to avoid lumps and ensure a glossy, thick sauce. Or take it off heat when you add it in to be extra cautious!
- Caramelization Key: Let the honey glaze drip onto the tray while baking for caramelized edges that enhance flavor.
- Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the salmon to avoid drying out; it should flake easily but stay moist. It'll be one of the most delicious salmon recipes you've ever had!!
FAQ
Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry with a paper towel before seasoning and baking. This ensures even cooking and better caramelization.
Tamari or coconut aminos work great as substitutes, especially if you need a gluten-free option. They’ll maintain the savory depth without compromising flavor. A must-try salmon glaze!!
Steamed rice or quinoa are classic choices, but roasted vegetables or my creamy orzo are all sides that salmon pairs perfectly with!
Related
Looking for other easy recipes like this one? Try these:
Easy Brown Sugar Soy Glazed Salmon Recipe (Oven Baked)
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a saucepan over medium-low heat, combine honey, brown sugar, chili flakes, soy sauce, 2 tablespoon butter, lemon juice, and water. Simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in the cornstarch slurry. Return to medium heat and cook for another 5 minutes, until thickened.
- Finish with the remaining 2 tablespoon cold butter for a silky, glossy finish. Set aside.
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
- Season salmon filets with salt and pepper, then brush with olive oil. Arrange on the tray.
- Bake salmon for 15 minutes. Remove from the oven and spoon 1–2 tablespoon of glaze over each filet, letting some drip onto the tray.
- Return to the oven for another 5 minutes, until salmon is flaky and caramelized.
- Cook orzo in salted water until al dente. Drain and rinse to prevent overcooking.
- Return to the pot over medium heat. Stir in heavy cream, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Let simmer for 5 minutes, until the sauce thickens and coats the pasta.
- Stir in fresh parsley if using.
- Plate the salmon over a scoop of creamy orzo, drizzle with extra glaze, and garnish with more parsley or sesame seeds.
Food safety
We sometimes take for a granted that we have years (or decades) of cooking experience, that the average visitor may not. Add to, or remove from, the list below with health and safety tips.
- Cook to a minimum temperature of 165 °F (74 °C)
- Do not use the same utensils on cooked food, that previously touched raw meat
- Wash hands after touching raw meat
- Don't leave food sitting out at room temperature for extended periods
- Never leave cooking food unattended
- Use oils with high smoking point to avoid harmful compounds
- Always have good ventilation when using a gas stove
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