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Sweet Chili Salmon Recipe

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4.2 from 56 reviews

Delicious Sweet Chili Salmon features succulent salmon pan-seared to perfection and coated with a flavorful Thai-inspired sweet chili sauce. This quick and easy recipe highlights a perfect balance of salty, sweet, and tangy flavors with a hint of fresh cilantro and sesame seeds, making it a fantastic weeknight meal.

  • Total Time: 18 minutes
  • Yield: 2-3 servings

Ingredients

Salmon

  • 1 lb (500g) salmon, cut into 2-3 pieces
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon oil

Sweet Chili Sauce

  • 4 tablespoons Thai sweet chili sauce
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons lime juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon white sesame seeds
  • 1/2 tablespoon cilantro leaves, chopped

Instructions

  1. Season the Salmon: Pat the salmon pieces dry using a paper towel to ensure a better sear. Lightly season both sides of the salmon with salt and black pepper.
  2. Prepare the Sauce: In a separate bowl, combine the Thai sweet chili sauce, lime juice, white sesame seeds, and chopped cilantro leaves. Stir well to blend the flavors and set aside.
  3. Heat the Skillet: Place a skillet over medium heat and add 1 teaspoon of oil, allowing it to warm up.
  4. Pan-Sear the Salmon: Add the salmon pieces to the hot skillet without overcrowding them to avoid steaming. Cook each side until golden and cooked through, usually about 3-4 minutes per side depending on thickness. The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 125-130°F (52-54°C).
  5. Serve: Transfer the cooked salmon to a serving plate. Drizzle the prepared sweet chili sauce evenly over the salmon and serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

  • Patting the salmon dry before seasoning helps to achieve a beautiful golden crust instead of steaming the fish.
  • Give the salmon pieces enough space in the pan to avoid crowding, which can trap steam and lead to soggy fish. Cook in batches if necessary.
  • Brushing the salmon lightly with oil before cooking helps seal in moisture and promotes a crispy surface.
  • Remove salmon from heat just before it’s fully done as it continues to cook while resting, preventing dryness.
  • Author: Adeline
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 8 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: Thai