Honey Garlic Butter Salmon in Foil

Moist, flaky, and bursting with flavor, Honey Garlic Butter Salmon in Foil is the kind of meal that looks (and tastes!) like it took a ton of effort—but in reality, it comes together in less than 30 minutes. This recipe is a favorite in kitchens everywhere thanks to its sweet, savory glaze, minimal cleanup, and perfectly cooked salmon every single time.

Baking it in foil locks in all those incredible juices, making the salmon tender and deliciously infused with a garlicky, buttery, honey glaze. It’s a weeknight dinner winner or a show-stopping main for guests.

Why This Salmon Recipe Is a Winner

Sweet honey meets rich, savory garlic butter
Salmon is juicy, flaky, and perfectly seasoned
Foil packet locks in flavor and makes cleanup easy
Quick prep, ready in under 30 minutes
Pairs beautifully with veggies, rice, or salad

This dish is foolproof and flexible, making it one of the most loved salmon recipes on the internet.

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 to 1.5 lbs salmon fillet (skin on or off)
2 tbsp melted unsalted butter
4 garlic cloves, minced
1/3 cup honey
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
1 tbsp chopped parsley (or cilantro)
Salt and black pepper to taste
Lemon slices for garnish

Optional: a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat

How to Make Honey Garlic Butter Salmon in Foil

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and lightly grease it with nonstick spray. Place the salmon in the center, skin-side down.
In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, minced garlic, honey, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
Pour the mixture evenly over the salmon. Use a spoon to spread it, if needed.
Fold up the foil over the salmon, sealing it to create a packet.
Bake for 15–18 minutes, depending on thickness. For extra caramelization, open the foil in the last 3–5 minutes and broil briefly.
Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon slices. Serve hot!

Tips for Perfect Salmon Every Time

Don’t overcook — salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and is opaque pink throughout.
Broil at the end for a golden, sticky glaze.
Use fresh garlic and lemon for the brightest flavor.
Let the salmon rest for 5 minutes before serving to let juices settle.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this tender honey garlic butter salmon with:

Steamed rice or lemony quinoa
Roasted or sautéed veggies (broccoli, asparagus, green beans)
Garlic mashed potatoes
A light salad with vinaigrette
Crusty bread to soak up the sauce

It’s a flexible dish that fits into everything from a healthy weeknight dinner to a romantic meal for two.

Make-Ahead & Storage Tips

Make Ahead: You can prepare the foil packet and sauce ahead of time, then bake fresh.
Leftovers: Store cooked salmon in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Gently warm in the oven at 300°F or in a skillet with a splash of water and covered lid to retain moisture.
Freezing: Freeze cooked portions in airtight containers up to 2 months.

Variations to Try

Orange Twist: Use fresh orange juice instead of lemon for a citrusy punch
Asian Style: Add a splash of soy sauce or a drizzle of sesame oil
Spicy Version: Stir in chili flakes or a bit of Sriracha to the glaze
Herb-Lover’s: Add rosemary, dill, or thyme to the foil packet

This Honey Garlic Butter Salmon in Foil is a beloved staple for good reason. It’s easy, it’s delicious, and it feels fancy while being completely fuss-free. Whether you’re cooking for a group or just yourself, this recipe will make you feel like a pro in your kitchen.

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