Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes! I like to use frozen skinless Atlantic salmon fillets and thaw them in the fridge overnight for this recipe. Wild-caught varieties like Sockeye also work, but they’re leaner and may cook a little faster, so keep an eye on doneness. Just make sure the salmon is fully thawed and patted dry before seasoning—if it’s still a bit wet, the spice mix won’t stick as well and the texture can turn out uneven.

Should I leave the skin on or take it off?

This is a matter of preference . Although leaving the skin on can help the salmon stay more moist during cooking, I personally use skinless salmon for this recipe. The hot honey glaze helps keep the fish moist, and since the skin won’t crisp up in the oven or air fryer, I usually go for a skinless fillet. I’m not a fan of salmon skin unless it’s crispy!

What if I don’t have hot honey?

No problem. You can make a quick version by mixing regular honey with about 1/8 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce. If you’re avoiding honey, maple syrup with a bit of brown sugar and cayenne works well too.

How spicy is this recipe?

It has a mild heat - just enough to balance the sweet and savory flavors. If you’re sensitive to spice, you can use regular honey. If you love heat, feel free to add a little cayenne with an extra drizzle of hot honey to kick it up!

How do I reheat leftovers without drying them out?

I usually reheat the salmon in the microwave (let’s be honest, that’s what most of us do). While it won’t taste quite as good as when it’s freshly made, you can minimize the dryness. Just add a few drops of water or olive oil on top of the salmon and cover it with a damp paper towel. Heat in short bursts (about 30 seconds at a time) until just warmed through. A small drizzle of hot honey at the end brings back some moisture and adds flavor too!

What’s the best side dish to serve with this?

I love pairing it with broken jasmine rice and roasted asparagus —that’s my go-to combo when I want something simple and satisfying. It also goes well with sautéed green beans, broccoli, or even a quick cucumber salad. If you’re not in the mood for rice, mashed potatoes are a great option too. You can check out the Serving Suggestions and Full Dinner Game Plan sections in this post for more ideas on how to bring it all together.

Honey Old Bay Salmon (Quick & Easy with Hot Honey Glaze)

Name: Honey Old Bay Salmon (Quick and Easy with Hot Honey Glaze)
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each), thawed and patted dry; 1½ teaspoons Old Bay seasoning; ½ to ¾ teaspoon Kosher salt, adjust to taste; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; ½ teaspoon paprika; 2 to 4 tablespoons hot honey, plus more to taste

Honey Old Bay Salmon (Quick and Easy with Hot Honey Glaze)

close-up of glazed salmon being lifted with a spatula, with Old Bay and hot honey in the background

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This Honey Old Bay Salmon is quick, easy, and full of flavor thanks to a hot honey glaze. Ready in 25 minutes - perfect for busy weeknights or special dinners.

Author: George
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Category: Main
Method: Oven, Air Fryer
Cuisine: American
Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

Scale

4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each), thawed and patted dry
1½ teaspoons Old Bay seasoning
½ to ¾ teaspoon Kosher salt, adjust to taste
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon paprika
2 to 4 tablespoons hot honey, plus more to taste

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Instructions

Preheat oven or air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
If using the oven, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. If using an air fryer, lightly oil the basket or use a liner if needed.
Mix the seasoning.
In a small bowl, combine Old Bay, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
Season the salmon.
Pat the salmon fillets dry. Sprinkle the seasoning mix evenly over both sides of each fillet and gently pat to help it stick.
Cook the salmon.
- Oven: Place salmon on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 10 minutes.
- Air fryer: Place salmon in a single layer and cook for 8 minutes.
Add hot honey.
Drizzle 1/2 to 1 tablespoon of hot honey over each fillet. Aim to drizzle it near the center of each fillet (not the edges) so it doesn't run off. Use the back of a spoon or pastry brush to gently spread it.
Finish cooking.
- Oven: Return to oven and bake for 2 to 4 more minutes, until salmon flakes easily and the honey caramelizes slightly.
- Air fryer: Cook for an additional 2 minutes to set the glaze.
- For a more caramelized finish:
  - Option 1: Drizzle the hot honey before cooking (right after seasoning the fillets).
  - Option 2: Use the broiler for 1–2 minutes after adding the honey — just watch closely so it doesn't burn.
Serve.
Optional: Drizzle with more hot honey before serving.

Notes

Hot honey substitute: No hot honey? Mix regular honey with 1/8 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce. Avoiding honey? Try maple syrup with a pinch of cayenne and a little brown sugar to thicken.
Spice level: This dish has mild to moderate heat. Use less hot honey (or regular honey) for a milder version. Add more cayenne or hot honey for extra heat.
Salt: This recipe was tested with Diamond Crystal Kosher Salt. If using table salt, start with 1/3 teaspoon and adjust to taste.
Want another easy baked fish dinner? Try my Oven-Baked Swai Fish recipe next — it’s just as simple and perfect for busy weeknights.

Find it online: https://www.myeclecticbites.com/hot-honey-old-bay-salmon/