Description

BBQ Candied Salmon is a crave-worthy dish that brings together tender salmon fillets coated in a sweet, smoky barbecue glaze with hints of caramelized brown sugar. This quick and easy recipe delivers a restaurant-quality, candied finish in under half an hour—perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests with minimal effort.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Salmon

4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper

For the BBQ Candied Glaze

½ cup barbecue sauce
¼ cup brown sugar
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder

Garnish (Optional)

Fresh lemon wedges
Chopped parsley

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Instructions

Prepare the Oven – Preheat your oven to 400 °F (200 °C). Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper for easier cleanup.
Make the Glaze – In a small bowl, whisk together the barbecue sauce, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth and well combined.
Arrange the Salmon – Place the salmon fillets skin-side down on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each fillet for even cooking.
Glaze the Salmon – Spoon or generously brush the BBQ candied glaze over the tops of each salmon fillet, covering them evenly.
Bake – Transfer the sheet to the preheated oven and bake for 12–15 minutes. Salmon should be cooked through and easily flake with a fork. The top will look caramelized and glossy.
Optional: Broil – If you prefer a deeper glaze and a touch of char, broil the salmon for 1–2 minutes. Watch closely to prevent burning.
Garnish and Serve – Remove from the oven, let rest briefly, and garnish with fresh lemon wedges and chopped parsley if desired. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.

Notes

Use skinless or skin-on salmon fillets—both work well.
Adjust brown sugar for more or less sweetness according to taste.
Pair with rice, roasted veggies, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
This glaze works well on other fish like trout or cod.
Keep an eye on the salmon if broiling, as sugars in the glaze can burn quickly.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main-course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 fillet (about 6 oz, with glaze)
Calories: 350
Sugar: 16g
Sodium: 680mg
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 11g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 22g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 34g
Cholesterol: 75mg