Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Glazed Salmon : The Ultimate Crockpot Salmon Recipe

Posted on August 13, 2025 ·

By Lyndy

slow cooker honey garlic glazed salmon in a crock pot with text overlay

When it comes to easy, flavorful, and healthy meals, few things compete with a tender, flaky piece of salmon infused with a sticky, sweet honey garlic glaze. And the best part? You can make it effortlessly in your slow cooker. That’s right—this Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Glazed Salmon is here to revolutionize your weeknight dinners and add a game-changing recipe to your list of go-to pescatarian crockpot recipes.

Whether you’re following a pescatarian diet or just want a sweet slow cooker recipe that feels gourmet with minimal effort, this one hits every mark. It’s simple, protein-rich, and full of restaurant-quality flavor, with none of the stress.

Ready to dive in? Let’s talk about why this is one of the best salmon crock pot recipes you’ll ever make.

Why You’ll Love Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Glazed Salmon

Cooking salmon in the oven or pan can be fast—but it’s also easy to overcook. That’s where the crockpot shines. It creates the ideal low-and-slow environment that keeps the salmon moist, tender, and infused with flavor.

This crock pot salmon recipe is:

  • Incredibly easy (no constant monitoring required)
  • Bursting with bold sweet and savory garlic-honey flavor
  • Perfect for busy weeknights or Sunday meal prep
  • Great for pescatarians or seafood lovers
  • Pairs well with simple sides like rice, quinoa, or steamed veggies

Looking for another cozy but healthy dinner? Don’t miss this comforting Slow Cooker Chicken Stew—a crowd-pleaser, even for meat-eaters.

Essential Ingredients for Crockpot Honey Garlic Salmon

Here’s what you’ll need to create this slow cooker fish recipe with bold, rich flavor:

Salmon Filets

Fresh or thawed frozen filets work well. Choose skin-on for more structure or skinless for ease.

Honey

This is the sweet base of your glaze and helps the sauce caramelize slightly during cooking.

Soy Sauce (or Tamari for Gluten-Free)

Adds depth and umami to balance the sweetness.

Garlic (Freshly Minced)

Fresh garlic gives the best punch, but jarred can work in a pinch.

Rice Vinegar or Apple Cider Vinegar

A splash of acid brightens up the sauce and cuts through the richness.

Cornstarch Slurry (optional)

Helps thicken the sauce after cooking.

Want a side that complements this flavor-packed salmon? Pair it with Lemon Herb Quinoa with Chickpeas or some Garlic Butter Shrimp and Mashed Potatoes.

How to Make Salmon in the Crockpot – Step-by-Step

Step 1: Prep the Salmon

Place your salmon filets in the bottom of a lightly greased slow cooker. Make sure they’re in a single layer to ensure even cooking.

Step 2: Whisk the Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, vinegar, and a pinch of black pepper.

Step 3: Pour and Cook

Pour the glaze over the salmon. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 1.5 to 2 hours. Cooking time may vary slightly based on the thickness of your filets.

Step 4: Thicken the Sauce (Optional)

Remove the cooked salmon and transfer the remaining sauce to a saucepan. Bring to a simmer and stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch + 1 tablespoon cold water) to thicken. Drizzle over the salmon when serving.

Pro Tip: For an extra glossy finish, broil the cooked salmon for 2-3 minutes just before serving.

Pair it with a light side like Cucumber Shrimp Salad or Oven-Roasted Garlic Cabbage Steaks for a balanced meal.

Make This a Full Meal – Best Side Dishes for Crockpot Salmon

Wondering what goes with this sticky, sweet fish? Here are a few winning combos:

  • Steamed jasmine rice
  • Quinoa or couscous
  • Stir-fried vegetables or bok choy
  • Roasted sweet potatoes
  • Cucumber-dill salad

For a cozy seasonal twist, try serving with Pumpkin Baked Oatmeal for a hearty side or Healthy Smashed Carrots as a warm vegetable option.

Tips for Cooking Fish in the Slow Cooker

If you’re new to fish crockpot recipes, keep these tips in mind:

  • Use thick filets to avoid overcooking. Thinner cuts may cook faster.
  • Don’t skip the parchment or foil under the salmon—it helps with removal.
  • Avoid high heat unless you’re in a rush—low heat keeps the fish moist.
  • Lift carefully using a wide spatula or fish lifter to keep the filets intact.
  • Check at 1.5 hours to avoid overcooking.

And if you’re all about convenience, check out this one-dish Creamy Tuscan Salmon—equally delicious and weeknight-friendly.

Other Crockpot Recipes Salmon Lovers Will Enjoy

Expand your slow-cooked seafood repertoire with these ideas:

  • Teriyaki Salmon with Ginger and Garlic
  • Lemon Dill Salmon with Capers
  • Sweet Chili Salmon with Mango Salsa
  • Creamy Coconut Curry Salmon

Or explore vegetarian crockpot options like 1-Pot Green Lentil Dal for a meatless yet hearty dish.

Make It Pescatarian-Friendly

This pescatarian crockpot recipe fits beautifully into a seafood-focused lifestyle. It’s gluten-free adaptable, high in protein, and full of omega-3s.

Pair with Sweet Potato and Chickpea Curry or Mediterranean Shrimp Bowls to build a week’s worth of delicious pescatarian meals.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Storing Leftovers

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Avoid freezing, as salmon texture changes once thawed.

Reheating

Gently reheat in the microwave or stovetop. Add a splash of water or glaze to keep it moist.

Bonus: Flaked leftover salmon is perfect in salads, wraps, or added to Vegetable Biryani for a quick rice bowl.

FAQs About Crockpot Salmon Recipes

Can you cook salmon in a crockpot?

Absolutely! Cooking it low and slow keeps the fish moist and helps it soak up sauces beautifully.

Do I need to sear the salmon first?

Nope! This recipe is fully hands-off. However, broiling it at the end adds a nice caramelized finish.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can store cooked salmon in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes—just thaw it overnight in the fridge for even cooking.

Is this recipe spicy?

No, but you can add red pepper flakes or sriracha to the sauce for heat.

Other Easy Seafood Recipes to Try Next

If you loved this honey garlic crockpot salmon, you’ll love these:

Looking for a vegetarian night? Try this flavorful Sticky Honey Gochujang Chicken for a sweet and spicy twist.

Final Thoughts: Why This is the Best Sweet Slow Cooker Recipe for Salmon Lovers

This slow cooker honey garlic glazed salmon recipe is proof that simple ingredients and minimal effort can still create a show-stopping meal. Whether you’re new to fish crockpot recipes or a seasoned home cook, this is one dish that deserves a spot in your weekly rotation.

With a blend of sweet, salty, and savory flavors, this crock pot salmon is perfect for busy weeknights, special occasions, or clean-eating meal preps.

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Irresistible Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Glazed Salmon (Easy & Sweet)


  • Author: Lyndy
  • Total Time: 1 hour 55 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

This Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Glazed Salmon is tender, flaky, and bursting with sweet and savory flavor. Gently cooked in a crockpot, the salmon stays moist while soaking up a garlicky honey-soy glaze, making it an easy, healthy, and foolproof dinner option for busy nights or special occasions.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 salmon fillets, skin removed (about 6 oz each)
  • 1/3 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1 tablespoon water
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley or green onions, for garnish
  • Sesame seeds (optional, for topping)

Instructions

  1. Make the glaze: Whisk honey, soy sauce, lemon juice, garlic, and ginger (if using) in a small bowl.
  2. Season salmon: Lightly season fillets with salt and pepper, then place in slow cooker in a single layer.
  3. Cook: Pour glaze over salmon, cover, and cook on low for 1.5–2 hours until opaque and flaky.
  4. Thicken sauce (optional): Remove salmon, mix cornstarch with water, and simmer cooking liquid until thickened.
  5. Glaze & serve: Drizzle thickened sauce over salmon, garnish with herbs and sesame seeds, and serve warm.

Notes

  • Check salmon after 1.5 hours to prevent overcooking.
  • Use parchment or foil liner in the slow cooker for easier cleanup.
  • Thaw frozen salmon completely before cooking.
  • Optional aromatics like lemon slices or herbs can enhance flavor.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Slow Cooker
  • Cuisine: Asian-Inspired

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 salmon fillet
  • Calories: 310
  • Sugar: 17g
  • Sodium: 530mg
  • Fat: 11g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 33g
  • Cholesterol: 85mg

Keywords: honey garlic salmon, slow cooker salmon, crockpot fish, easy salmon recipe, pescatarian dinner

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