Description

This Crispy Hot Honey Salmon Tenders recipe features tender salmon strips coated with smoky spices and parmesan, baked to a crispy perfection, then drizzled with a sweet and spicy hot honey sauce. Perfect as a flavorful and quick-to-make main dish, it’s an exciting twist on salmon that balances heat and sweetness with a satisfying crunch.

Ingredients

Scale

Salmon

2 pounds salmon, cut into 1 inch strips or chunks
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and black pepper, to taste
3 tablespoons grated parmesan (or flour)
Olive oil or melted butter, for coating

Hot Honey Sauce

1/2 cup honey
2–3 tablespoons hot sauce
1/2 – 3 teaspoons cayenne pepper (start with 1/2 teaspoon, adjust to taste)
3/4 teaspoon chipotle chili powder
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder

Garnish

Green onions, cilantro, or thyme, for serving

Instructions

Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C) and lightly oil a sheet pan to prevent sticking.
Season Salmon: Arrange the salmon strips or chunks on the prepared sheet pan. Sprinkle evenly with onion powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and grated parmesan (or flour). Gently toss or coat the salmon pieces to ensure even seasoning. Drizzle olive oil or melted butter over the salmon to help crisp the exterior during baking.
Bake Salmon: Place the sheet pan in the preheated oven and bake for 10-15 minutes. Check for a crispy top and cooked-through salmon. The exact time may vary based on chunk size but ensure the salmon is tender and flakes easily.
Make Hot Honey Sauce: While the salmon bakes, combine honey, hot sauce, cayenne pepper (starting with 1/2 teaspoon), chipotle chili powder, garlic powder, and onion powder in a small saucepan. Warm gently over low heat, stirring frequently until heated through but not boiling. Adjust cayenne pepper to your preferred heat level.
Serve: Once the salmon is done, either drizzle the warm hot honey sauce over the tenders or serve it on the side for dipping. If the sauce thickens upon standing, gently rewarm it on the stove. Garnish with chopped green onions, cilantro, or thyme and sprinkle lightly with sea salt or your preferred herbs.

Notes

You can substitute grated parmesan with flour if desired, though Parmesan adds a nutty flavor and crispness.
Adjust cayenne pepper amount in the sauce to control the heat level.
Use fresh herbs like cilantro or thyme to complement the sweet-spicy flavors.
For a gluten-free version, ensure the parmesan is free of additives or use gluten-free flour.
If reheating leftovers, warm gently to avoid drying out the salmon.

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

Keywords: salmon tenders, hot honey salmon, crispy salmon, baked salmon, spicy salmon, honey sauce, easy dinner