Honey Butter Garlic Salmon Bites

When I made these Honey Butter Garlic Salmon Bites, the kitchen smelled sweet and savory at the same time.
The salmon turned golden on the outside and buttery soft inside, coated in that glossy honey garlic sauce.
I remember tasting one right from the pan—it melted in my mouth.

These bites are quick, flavorful, and full of rich, sticky goodness.
They’re perfect for dinner, appetizers, or an easy weeknight treat.

Let’s cook them together—you’ll love how simple and delicious they are.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and Easy: From start to finish in less than 20 minutes on busy weeknights.
  • Perfect Balance: Sweet honey meets savory garlic and soy sauce for layers of flavor.
  • Tender and Flaky: Salmon cooks just right, staying moist and delicious.
  • Great for Everyone: Kids and adults both enjoy these bite-sized pieces.
  • Meal Prep Friendly: Make ahead and reheat for easy lunches or dinners.
Honey Butter Garlic Salmon Bites

What You Need to Know Before You Start

Prep Time & Cook Time:

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 8 minutes
  • Total Time: About 18 minutes

Servings: This recipe makes 4 servings. Each person gets several salmon bites with plenty of sauce. Want to feed more people? Simply double everything.

Difficulty: Very easy. Perfect for beginners who want to cook fish without stress.

Required Kitchen Tools

  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board
  • Large skillet or frying pan
  • Small bowl
  • Measuring spoons
  • Spatula or wooden spoon

Ingredients for Honey Butter Garlic Salmon Bites

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Salmon Fillets: Fresh or thawed salmon works best. Look for firm, pink pieces.
  • Salt: Brings out the natural flavor of the fish.
  • Pepper: Adds a gentle kick to balance the sweetness.
  • Butter: Creates a rich base for the sauce. Use real butter, not margarine.
  • Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor. You’ll need about 3-4 cloves, minced.
  • Honey: Adds natural sweetness that caramelizes beautifully.
  • Soy Sauce: Brings salty, savory depth to the glaze.
  • Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon brightens everything up.
  • Parsley: Fresh parsley adds color and a light, fresh taste.
  • Sesame Seeds: Optional, but they add a nice crunch and look pretty.

Variations for Honey Butter Garlic Salmon Bites

  • Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or sriracha to the sauce for heat.
  • Ginger Twist: Mix in fresh grated ginger with the garlic for extra flavor.
  • Orange Glaze: Replace lemon juice with orange juice for a sweeter taste.
  • Different Herbs: Try dill or cilantro instead of parsley.
  • Teriyaki Style: Add a splash of rice vinegar and extra soy sauce.
Ingredients for Honey Butter Garlic Salmon Bites

How to Make Honey Butter Garlic Salmon Bites Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Salmon

Cut salmon fillets into bite-sized pieces, about 1-2 inches each. Pat them dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper.

2. Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, mix together honey, soy sauce, and lemon juice. Stir until combined. Set aside.

3. Cook the Salmon

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add half the butter and let it melt. Place salmon bites in the pan, leaving space between each piece. Cook for 2-3 minutes without moving them. Flip and cook another 2-3 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.

4. Add the Garlic

Push salmon to the sides of the pan. Add remaining butter to the center. When it melts, add minced garlic. Cook for about 30 seconds until it smells good.

5. Glaze the Salmon

Pour the honey sauce mixture over everything. Gently stir to coat all the salmon bites. Let the sauce bubble and thicken for 1-2 minutes.

6. Finish and Serve

Remove from heat. Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley and sesame seeds if using.

Serving and Decoration

How to Serve Honey Butter Garlic Salmon Bites

These salmon bites work well with many side dishes:

  • With Rice: Serve over white rice, brown rice, or cauliflower rice.
  • With Vegetables: Pair with steamed broccoli, green beans, or roasted asparagus.
  • With Noodles: Toss with rice noodles or regular pasta.
  • In Bowls: Create a rice bowl with vegetables, avocado, and extra sauce.
  • With Salad: Place on top of a fresh garden salad or Asian-style slaw.
How to Make Honey Butter Garlic Salmon Bites

Storing Honey Butter Garlic Salmon Bites

  • In the Refrigerator: Store cooked salmon bites in a container with a lid for up to 2 days. Keep any extra sauce separate.
  • Reheating: Warm gently in a pan over low heat or in the microwave for 30-45 seconds. Don’t overheat or the salmon gets dry.
  • Not for Freezing: Cooked salmon with sauce doesn’t freeze well. It’s best enjoyed fresh.

Tips and Tricks for Success

  • Don’t Overcook: Salmon cooks fast. Watch it carefully so it stays moist.
  • Use Fresh Garlic: Pre-minced garlic from a jar won’t taste as good.
  • Dry the Fish: Pat salmon dry before cooking so it gets a nice brown crust.
  • Test Doneness: Salmon should flake easily with a fork when done.
  • Adjust Sweetness: Taste the sauce before adding it. Add more honey if you like it sweeter.
  • Let It Rest: Allow salmon to sit for a minute after cooking. This helps it stay together.

Nutrition

NutrientPer Serving
Calories320
Protein28g
Fat18g
Carbohydrates14g
Sugar12g
Sodium480mg
Fiber0g

Values are approximate and based on 4 servings

Print

Honey Butter Garlic Salmon Bites

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

  • Author: Zara Blake
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 8 minutes
  • Total Time: 18 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Seafood / Main Dish

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 and 1/2 pounds (680g) salmon fillets, cut into 1-2 inch pieces
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 3 tablespoons (42g) unsalted butter, divided
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 tablespoons honey
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

 

  • 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (optional)

Instructions

  • Prep Salmon: Cut salmon into bite-sized pieces. Pat dry and season with salt and pepper.
  • Mix Sauce: In a small bowl, combine honey, soy sauce, and lemon juice. Set aside.
  • Cook Salmon: Heat skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 and 1/2 tablespoons butter. When melted, add salmon pieces. Cook 2-3 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.
  • Add Garlic: Push salmon to the sides. Add remaining butter to the center. Add minced garlic and cook 30 seconds.
  • Glaze: Pour honey sauce over salmon. Stir gently to coat. Cook 1-2 minutes until sauce thickens slightly.

 

  • Garnish: Remove from heat. Top with parsley and sesame seeds.

Did you make this recipe?

Share a photo and tag us — we can’t wait to see what you’ve made!

Honey Butter Garlic Salmon Bites FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes. Thaw it completely first. Pat very dry before cooking.

What if I don’t have fresh lemon?

Bottled lemon juice works in a pinch. Fresh tastes better though.

How do I know when salmon is done?

It should flake easily with a fork and look opaque, not translucent.

Can I make this with other fish?

Yes. Try it with cod, tilapia, or shrimp. Adjust cooking time as needed.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Use tamari or gluten-free soy sauce instead of regular soy sauce.

Conclusion

Honey Butter Garlic Salmon Bites bring together simple ingredients in a way that tastes fancy but doesn’t take much time. The combination of sweet honey, rich butter, and savory garlic creates a sauce that makes the salmon shine. Whether you’re cooking for your family on a Tuesday night or wanting to impress dinner guests, this recipe delivers every time. The best part is how quick it comes together, leaving you more time to enjoy your meal and less time standing at the stove.

When I made these Honey Butter Garlic Salmon Bites, the kitchen smelled sweet and savory at the same time.
The salmon turned golden on the outside and buttery soft inside, coated in that glossy honey garlic sauce.
I remember tasting one right from the pan—it melted in my mouth.

These bites are quick, flavorful, and full of rich, sticky goodness.
They’re perfect for dinner, appetizers, or an easy weeknight treat.

Let’s cook them together—you’ll love how simple and delicious they are.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and Easy: From start to finish in less than 20 minutes on busy weeknights.
  • Perfect Balance: Sweet honey meets savory garlic and soy sauce for layers of flavor.
  • Tender and Flaky: Salmon cooks just right, staying moist and delicious.
  • Great for Everyone: Kids and adults both enjoy these bite-sized pieces.
  • Meal Prep Friendly: Make ahead and reheat for easy lunches or dinners.
Honey Butter Garlic Salmon Bites

What You Need to Know Before You Start

Prep Time & Cook Time:

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 8 minutes
  • Total Time: About 18 minutes

Servings: This recipe makes 4 servings. Each person gets several salmon bites with plenty of sauce. Want to feed more people? Simply double everything.

Difficulty: Very easy. Perfect for beginners who want to cook fish without stress.

Required Kitchen Tools

  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board
  • Large skillet or frying pan
  • Small bowl
  • Measuring spoons
  • Spatula or wooden spoon

Ingredients for Honey Butter Garlic Salmon Bites

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Salmon Fillets: Fresh or thawed salmon works best. Look for firm, pink pieces.
  • Salt: Brings out the natural flavor of the fish.
  • Pepper: Adds a gentle kick to balance the sweetness.
  • Butter: Creates a rich base for the sauce. Use real butter, not margarine.
  • Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor. You’ll need about 3-4 cloves, minced.
  • Honey: Adds natural sweetness that caramelizes beautifully.
  • Soy Sauce: Brings salty, savory depth to the glaze.
  • Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon brightens everything up.
  • Parsley: Fresh parsley adds color and a light, fresh taste.
  • Sesame Seeds: Optional, but they add a nice crunch and look pretty.

Variations for Honey Butter Garlic Salmon Bites

  • Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or sriracha to the sauce for heat.
  • Ginger Twist: Mix in fresh grated ginger with the garlic for extra flavor.
  • Orange Glaze: Replace lemon juice with orange juice for a sweeter taste.
  • Different Herbs: Try dill or cilantro instead of parsley.
  • Teriyaki Style: Add a splash of rice vinegar and extra soy sauce.
Ingredients for Honey Butter Garlic Salmon Bites

How to Make Honey Butter Garlic Salmon Bites Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Salmon

Cut salmon fillets into bite-sized pieces, about 1-2 inches each. Pat them dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper.

2. Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, mix together honey, soy sauce, and lemon juice. Stir until combined. Set aside.

3. Cook the Salmon

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add half the butter and let it melt. Place salmon bites in the pan, leaving space between each piece. Cook for 2-3 minutes without moving them. Flip and cook another 2-3 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.

4. Add the Garlic

Push salmon to the sides of the pan. Add remaining butter to the center. When it melts, add minced garlic. Cook for about 30 seconds until it smells good.

5. Glaze the Salmon

Pour the honey sauce mixture over everything. Gently stir to coat all the salmon bites. Let the sauce bubble and thicken for 1-2 minutes.

6. Finish and Serve

Remove from heat. Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley and sesame seeds if using.

Serving and Decoration

How to Serve Honey Butter Garlic Salmon Bites

These salmon bites work well with many side dishes:

  • With Rice: Serve over white rice, brown rice, or cauliflower rice.
  • With Vegetables: Pair with steamed broccoli, green beans, or roasted asparagus.
  • With Noodles: Toss with rice noodles or regular pasta.
  • In Bowls: Create a rice bowl with vegetables, avocado, and extra sauce.
  • With Salad: Place on top of a fresh garden salad or Asian-style slaw.
How to Make Honey Butter Garlic Salmon Bites

Storing Honey Butter Garlic Salmon Bites

  • In the Refrigerator: Store cooked salmon bites in a container with a lid for up to 2 days. Keep any extra sauce separate.
  • Reheating: Warm gently in a pan over low heat or in the microwave for 30-45 seconds. Don’t overheat or the salmon gets dry.
  • Not for Freezing: Cooked salmon with sauce doesn’t freeze well. It’s best enjoyed fresh.

Tips and Tricks for Success

  • Don’t Overcook: Salmon cooks fast. Watch it carefully so it stays moist.
  • Use Fresh Garlic: Pre-minced garlic from a jar won’t taste as good.
  • Dry the Fish: Pat salmon dry before cooking so it gets a nice brown crust.
  • Test Doneness: Salmon should flake easily with a fork when done.
  • Adjust Sweetness: Taste the sauce before adding it. Add more honey if you like it sweeter.
  • Let It Rest: Allow salmon to sit for a minute after cooking. This helps it stay together.

Nutrition

NutrientPer Serving
Calories320
Protein28g
Fat18g
Carbohydrates14g
Sugar12g
Sodium480mg
Fiber0g

Values are approximate and based on 4 servings

Print

Honey Butter Garlic Salmon Bites

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

  • Author: Zara Blake
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 8 minutes
  • Total Time: 18 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Seafood / Main Dish

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 and 1/2 pounds (680g) salmon fillets, cut into 1-2 inch pieces
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 3 tablespoons (42g) unsalted butter, divided
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 tablespoons honey
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

 

  • 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (optional)

Instructions

  • Prep Salmon: Cut salmon into bite-sized pieces. Pat dry and season with salt and pepper.
  • Mix Sauce: In a small bowl, combine honey, soy sauce, and lemon juice. Set aside.
  • Cook Salmon: Heat skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 and 1/2 tablespoons butter. When melted, add salmon pieces. Cook 2-3 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.
  • Add Garlic: Push salmon to the sides. Add remaining butter to the center. Add minced garlic and cook 30 seconds.
  • Glaze: Pour honey sauce over salmon. Stir gently to coat. Cook 1-2 minutes until sauce thickens slightly.

 

  • Garnish: Remove from heat. Top with parsley and sesame seeds.

Did you make this recipe?

Share a photo and tag us — we can’t wait to see what you’ve made!

Honey Butter Garlic Salmon Bites FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes. Thaw it completely first. Pat very dry before cooking.

What if I don’t have fresh lemon?

Bottled lemon juice works in a pinch. Fresh tastes better though.

How do I know when salmon is done?

It should flake easily with a fork and look opaque, not translucent.

Can I make this with other fish?

Yes. Try it with cod, tilapia, or shrimp. Adjust cooking time as needed.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Use tamari or gluten-free soy sauce instead of regular soy sauce.

Conclusion

Honey Butter Garlic Salmon Bites bring together simple ingredients in a way that tastes fancy but doesn’t take much time. The combination of sweet honey, rich butter, and savory garlic creates a sauce that makes the salmon shine. Whether you’re cooking for your family on a Tuesday night or wanting to impress dinner guests, this recipe delivers every time. The best part is how quick it comes together, leaving you more time to enjoy your meal and less time standing at the stove.

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