Glazed Bourbon Orange Salmon

by

Sweet, citrusy salmon with a glossy bourbon glaze

This Glazed Bourbon Orange Salmon is the perfect blend of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors in one elegant dish. Fresh salmon fillets are seared to perfection, then coated in a glossy glaze made from bourbon, fresh orange juice, and brown sugar. The result is tender, flaky salmon with a caramelized, restaurant-quality finish. Best of all, it comes together in under 30 minutes—making it an ideal recipe for weeknight dinners, romantic date nights, or even special holiday meals. Pair it with garlic mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or rice for a complete meal that feels gourmet without the fuss.

Time Breakdown

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Servings: 4

Ingredients List

  • 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each, skin on or off)
  • ½ cup fresh orange juice (Florida orange juice if available 🍊)
  • ¼ cup bourbon
  • ¼ cup brown sugar, packed
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (plus more for searing)
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • Orange slices & fresh parsley, for garnish

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

This recipe doesn’t require fancy gadgets, just a few reliable kitchen basics to keep everything simple and stress-free.

  • Large skillet (cast iron or nonstick)
  • Mixing bowl
  • Measuring cups & spoons
  • Whisk
  • Tongs or spatula
  • Cutting board & sharp knife

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Make the glaze: In a bowl, whisk together orange juice, bourbon, brown sugar, soy sauce, olive oil, garlic, paprika, and pepper.
  2. Sear the salmon: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon olive oil. Place salmon fillets skin-side down (if skin-on) and sear 3–4 minutes until golden. Flip and cook another 2–3 minutes.
  3. Add the glaze: Pour the orange-bourbon mixture into the skillet. Reduce heat to medium and let simmer 5–7 minutes until sauce thickens into a glossy glaze.
  4. Coat the salmon: Spoon glaze over salmon repeatedly until fillets are fully coated and caramelized.
  5. Garnish & serve: Transfer to plates, drizzle with extra glaze, and garnish with fresh parsley and orange slices.

Pro Tips

  • No Alcohol Option: Replace bourbon with apple cider or more orange juice for a family-friendly version.
  • Crispy Skin Lovers: Keep skin on and sear skin-side first for a crispy finish.
  • Meal Prep: Cook salmon ahead and reheat gently with glaze for up to 2 days.
  • Serving Idea: Pair with rice pilaf, roasted asparagus, or mashed sweet potatoes for a stunning dinner. 🌿

Nutrition Table

Serving SizeCaloriesProteinCarbsFatFiberSugar
1 fillet36028g14g20g0g11g