Juicy Blackened Salmon with garlic butter and bold Cajun spices. This easy salmon recipe creates the perfect smoky crust while keeping the salmon tender and flaky inside. Ready in 20 minutes in one skillet.
Make the Blackening Seasoning: In a small bowl, whisk together the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, black pepper, oregano, thyme, and cayenne pepper until combined.
Prepare the Salmon: Pat the salmon fillets very dry with paper towels. This is important for creating a dark crust. Drizzle the salmon with olive oil, then generously coat all sides with the blackening seasoning.
Heat the Skillet: Heat a large cast iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add a little olive oil.
Cook the Salmon: Place the salmon fillets in the skillet presentation-side down first. Cook undisturbed for about 4-5 minutes, depending on thickness, until a dark crust forms. Carefully flip and cook another 3-5 minutes until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and reaches your desired doneness.
Add Garlic Butter: Lower the heat slightly. Add the butter and chopped garlic to the skillet. Spoon the melted garlic butter over the salmon for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Finish and Serve: Remove from heat and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top and optional drizzle of honey. Garnish with parsley and serve immediately.
Notes
Bring your salmon to room temperature as it cooks more evenly
Use thicker center-cut salmon fillets
The darker crust is flavor, not burning
Make sure to add garlic at the end to prevent bitterness
Add fresh lemon at the end to brighten all the flavors