1. Home
  2. Dishes
  3. Sweet Chili Salmon

Sweet Chili Salmon

Section: Plan Ahead Deliciously

This dish features fresh salmon baked to perfection with a flavorful sweet chili glaze. The salmon is seasoned simply with salt and pepper before being coated in Thai sweet chili sauce, then baked until tender and flaky. Served alongside citrusy lime juice, jasmine rice, and fresh garnishes like scallions, cilantro, cucumber, and sesame seeds, it offers a balanced combination of spicy, sweet, and fresh notes that create a satisfying, vibrant meal.

Save Share Send It Print Recipe Skip to Recipe
Harper
Contributed by Harper
Last updated on Thu, 04 Dec 2025 14:25:23 GMT
A plate of Sweet Chili Salmon with rice and cucumbers. Save
A plate of Sweet Chili Salmon with rice and cucumbers. | flavorrhaven.com

This sweet chili salmon recipe brings a delightful balance of spicy and sweet flavors that makes dinner feel special without any fuss. It is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something healthy, flavorful, and on the table quickly. The easy preparation is perfect for both salmon lovers and those looking to try something new with simple ingredients.

I first tried this salmon on a casual weeknight when I wanted a no-fuss dish, and now it is one of my go-to recipes whenever I want to impress with minimal effort. My family especially loves the crispy edges of the salmon paired with the tangy lime and fresh herbs.

Ingredients

  • Fresh salmon: cut into four pieces to ensure even cooking and flaky texture
  • Salt and pepper: to enhance the natural flavor of the fish & season generously but to taste
  • Thai sweet chili sauce: adds sweetness with a mild heat and sticky glaze & opt for a good quality brand for the best flavor
  • Lime juice: for a bright citrus kick that balances the sweetness
  • Jasmine rice: is the ideal simple side & fragrant and slightly sticky to complement the salmon
  • Cucumber slices: for cool crunch and freshness
  • Scallions and cilantro: for aromatic brightness and color
  • Sesame seeds: for a nutty finish and pleasing texture & toasted is even better if time allows

Instructions

Preheat the Oven:
Set your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and place the rack in the middle position. Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper for easier cleanup.
Prepare the Salmon:
Put the salmon pieces skin-side down on your prepared baking sheet. Season each piece with salt and pepper evenly. This step is crucial to bring out the best flavor in the fish.
Add the Sweet Chili Sauce:
Spoon about a tablespoon of Thai sweet chili sauce onto each salmon piece. Using the back of the spoon, spread the sauce evenly over the top. You want a nice glaze without overwhelming the fish.
Bake the Salmon:
Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 13 to 15 minutes. Check for doneness by gently pressing the thickest part of the salmon with a fork— it should flake easily when ready. Keep in mind that the salmon will continue to cook slightly once removed from the oven.
Prepare the Serving:
Squeeze fresh lime juice over the baked salmon for a tangy zing. Serve with jasmine rice, cucumber slices, scallions, cilantro, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. This combination creates a vibrant, well-rounded plate.
Sweet chili salmon with cucumbers and lime.
Sweet chili salmon with cucumbers and lime. | flavorrhaven.com

The sweet chili sauce is a real standout in this dish. I love how the sticky glaze caramelizes slightly in the heat of the oven, adding a richness that contrasts with the fresh lime juice. One night after serving this, my kids asked if we could have it again the next day—a true sign of success in my house.

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers wrapped tightly in the refrigerator and consume within two days for the best flavor and texture. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to keep the fish moist.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you cannot find Thai sweet chili sauce, you can mix honey with a bit of chili flakes and rice vinegar for a similar glaze. Salmon can be swapped for other firm fishes like trout or cod but adjust cooking times accordingly.

Serving Suggestions

Serve alongside steamed jasmine rice or quinoa for a healthy base. Add a simple green salad or roasted vegetables to round out the meal. For extra texture add crushed peanuts or chopped cashews on top.

Sweet chili salmon with rice and cucumbers.
Sweet chili salmon with rice and cucumbers. | flavorrhaven.com

This recipe is perfect for quick dinners yet impressive enough for guests. The blend of spice and sweetness keeps it interesting every time.

FAQs about Recipes

→ What temperature should I bake the salmon at?

Bake the salmon at 400°F, placing it in the middle of the oven for even cooking.

→ How do I know when the salmon is done?

The salmon is ready when it flakes easily with a fork and has an opaque appearance throughout.

→ Can I adjust the sweetness or spice level?

Yes, you can add more or less sweet chili sauce to match your preferred balance of sweetness and spice.

→ What sides complement this dish well?

Jasmine rice, fresh cucumber, scallions, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime enhance the flavors beautifully.

→ Is the skin left on during cooking?

Yes, cook the salmon skin-side down to help keep it moist and allow easy removal after baking if desired.

Sweet Chili Salmon

Baked salmon with sweet chili sauce, lime, and fresh herbs for a flavorful, easy dinner.

Prep Time
10 mins
Cooking Time
15 mins
Overall Time
25 mins
Contributed by: Harper

Recipe Category: Meal Prep

Skill Level: Beginner-Friendly

Cuisine Type: Thai-inspired

Recipe Output: 4 Portion Size (4 salmon fillets)

Dietary Features: Low in Carbs, Free from Gluten, Free from Dairy

What You'll Need

→ Main

01 1 pound fresh salmon, cut into 4 pieces
02 Salt, to taste
03 Black pepper, to taste
04 1/4 cup Thai sweet chili sauce

→ Accompaniments (optional but recommended)

05 Lime juice, for serving
06 Cooked jasmine rice
07 Sliced cucumber
08 Chopped scallions
09 Fresh cilantro leaves
10 Toasted sesame seeds

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 01

Preheat the oven to 400°F and position the rack in the center. Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Step 02

Place the salmon pieces skin-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Season evenly with salt and black pepper.

Step 03

Spread approximately one tablespoon of Thai sweet chili sauce on each piece of salmon, totaling about 1/4 cup. Adjust the amount to taste.

Step 04

Bake in the preheated oven for 13 to 15 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork. Thicker pieces may require additional cooking time.

Step 05

Optional: Squeeze fresh lime juice over the baked salmon. Serve with jasmine rice, sliced cucumber, scallions, cilantro, and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds.

Additional Notes

  1. Salmon continues to cook slightly after removal from the oven; avoid overcooking to retain moisture.

Tools You'll Need

  • Oven
  • Baking sheet
  • Foil or parchment paper
  • Spoon

Allergen Notices

Inspect every ingredient for potential allergens and seek expert advice if necessary.
  • Fish (salmon)
  • Sesame seeds (optional)