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Grilled bbq salmon on a black plate with potato salad and corn.

Foolproof BBQ Salmon on the Grill


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Description

This easy BBQ salmon recipe is completely foolproof. Grill skin-side down with BBQ sauce for perfect results every time. Add salmon to your next cookout!


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 4 6-ounce salmon fillets
  • 1/4 cup BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Chives, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat grill to medium-high (400°F) and oil the grates well. Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels and season with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
  2. Place salmon skin-side down on the grill. Cook for 2 minutes undisturbed to set the skin and prevent sticking.
  3. Brush the tops of the salmon fillets generously with BBQ sauce. Close the grill lid and reduce heat to 375°F if needed.
  4. Continue cooking with the lid closed for 8 more minutes, or until salmon flakes easily and reaches your desired internal temperature (125-135°F for medium-rare to medium-well).
  5. Remove from grill. Garnish with chopped chives.

Notes

  • Skin-side cooking: This method keeps the delicate flesh from sticking to the grates while the skin crisps up beautifully. The skin will release easily when the salmon is done.
  • BBQ sauce options: Use your favorite store-bought sauce or make my homemade Pineapple BBQ Sauce.
  • Temperature guide: 125°F for medium-rare, 130°F for medium, 135°F for medium-well. The salmon will continue cooking slightly during the rest period.
  • Alternative method: For extra smoky flavor, you can start flesh-side down for 2-3 minutes to get a nice char, then flip to skin-side down and finish as directed. This adds great flavor but requires more attention.
  • No skin fillets: If using skinless fillets, oil the grates extra well and reduce cooking time by 1-2 minutes.
  • Make it spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne or hot sauce to your BBQ sauce for a kick.
  • Prep Time: 5
  • Cook Time: 15
  • Category: Easy Recipes
  • Method: Grill
  • Cuisine: American