Name: Grilled Chipotle-Orange Salmon Recipe
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: PT-490546H16M41S
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1¾ pounds salmon fillet (skin on, about 1″ thick at the thickest area); 2 teaspoons finely-zested fresh orange zest (use a microplane zester); 1 teaspoon freshly squeezed orange juice; 1 teaspoon olive oil; 1 tablespoon packed brown sugar; ¼ teaspoon chipotle chili powder; ¼ teaspoon cumin; Kosher salt, to taste; Freshly ground black pepper, to taste; 6 ¼”-thick orange slices; 4 orange wedges (for serving); Cedar grilling plank (soaked in water)

Print Recipe·4 from 12 reviews

If you are looking to bring a dazzling burst of smoky, sweet, and citrusy flavors to your dinner table, look no further than this Grilled Chipotle-Orange Salmon Recipe. It’s a vibrant, mouthwatering dish that perfectly marries the bold heat of chipotle chili with the bright zest and juiciness of fresh orange. Grilling the salmon on a cedar plank adds an irresistible smoky aroma and tender texture, creating a simple yet stunning recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds. This recipe proves that combining just a handful of expertly chosen ingredients can deliver an unforgettable meal that feels both sophisticated and comforting.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A thick piece of cooked salmon rests on a charred wooden plank, glowing with an orange-brown glaze on top. Six round, thin slices of orange with slightly browned edges are evenly spread across the salmon's surface, creating a layered pattern. The salmon rests on a white marbled surface, surrounded by bright orange fruit slices and green leaves blurred in the background. On the right side, a knife with a light wooden handle partially appears beside the plank. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This recipe keeps things straightforward with essential, fresh ingredients that each play a vital role in flavor, aroma, and texture. From the rich salmon fillet to the fragrant cedar plank, every component combines to create a perfectly balanced dish.

1¾ pounds salmon fillet, with skin on: Skin-on fillets lock in moisture and make grilling easier, plus add crispy texture.
2 teaspoons finely-zested fresh orange zest: Adds bright citrus oils that lift the flavor with refreshing aroma.
1 teaspoon freshly squeezed orange juice: Offers acidity that cuts through the richness and enhances depth.
1 teaspoon olive oil: Helps the seasoning mixture coat the fish evenly and promote caramelization.
1 tablespoon packed brown sugar: Brings a hint of sweetness that balances the spicy chipotle and smoky flavors.
¼ teaspoon chipotle chili powder: The star spice that delivers warmth, smokiness, and a gentle kick.
¼ teaspoon cumin: Adds earthiness and warmth that complements the chili powder beautifully.
Kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors and seasons the salmon perfectly.
Freshly ground black pepper: Adds mild heat and sharpness for a well-rounded seasoning.
6 orange slices, about ¼-inch thick: Layered on top during grilling, these infuse the fish with more citrus and make a pretty presentation.
4 orange wedges: Served on the side for guests to squeeze extra fresh juice over their portions.

How to Make Grilled Chipotle-Orange Salmon Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Cedar Plank

Begin by soaking your cedar grilling plank in water for at least 2 hours before grilling. This soaking prevents the wood from burning too quickly and allows it to gently smoke and infuse the salmon with that signature aroma as it cooks. Place the plank in a rimmed pan with enough water to cover it, and weigh it down with a heavy mug to keep it submerged.

Step 2: Prep the Salmon on the Plank

About 30 minutes before grilling, transfer the soaked plank to a large rimmed baking sheet. Adjust the salmon fillet so it fits comfortably on the plank, trimming edges if necessary. Tuck any thinner ends underneath to create an even thickness. This step ensures the fish cooks evenly without uneven spots drying out or overcooking.

Step 3: Make and Apply the Marinade

In a small bowl, whisk together the orange zest and juice, olive oil, chipotle chili powder, cumin, and brown sugar until combined. This vibrant blend will flavor and caramelize on the salmon’s surface while grilling. Rub or brush this mixture all over the top and sides of the salmon. Then generously season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Finally, arrange the orange slices on top, which will steam gently and further impart a citrusy sweetness.

Step 4: Heat the Grill and Cook

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 435 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the plank with salmon directly over the grill grates and close the lid. Let it cook undisturbed for the first 20 minutes to trap the wood smoke and infuse flavor. Keep a spray bottle of water handy to tame any flare-ups if the plank starts to char aggressively. After 20 minutes, continue cooking for an additional 10 to 15 minutes, checking frequently for doneness.

Step 5: Check for Doneness and Serve

The salmon is ready when it’s beautifully caramelized on top and flakes easily with a fork in the thickest area. Use a large spatula to carefully lift the entire plank from the grill and transfer it to a serving platter. Serving directly from the cedar plank creates a beautiful, rustic presentation and keeps the salmon juicy and warm.

How to Serve Grilled Chipotle-Orange Salmon Recipe

A large, thick salmon fillet with a smooth, shiny orange surface is placed on a wooden plank, showing its grain texture beneath. There are six thin round slices of bright orange citrus fruit neatly spread across the top of the salmon in two overlapping rows. The wooden plank with the salmon rests on a black metal grill with thick rods. The background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh orange wedges are a must to serve alongside this dish so everyone can add an extra burst of citrus brightness. For an added pop of color and texture, sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro or thinly sliced green onions right before serving. These fresh herbs bring herbal brightness that enhances the smoky, spicy, and sweet layers of the salmon.

Side Dishes

This salmon is incredibly versatile when it comes to sides. Consider serving it with a light quinoa salad tossed with cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and mint to keep the meal fresh and vibrant. Roasted or grilled vegetables like asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers complement the smoky flavors nicely. A creamy avocado and corn salad or a tangy slaw also work beautifully to balance the warmth of the chipotle.

Creative Ways to Present

Present your Grilled Chipotle-Orange Salmon Recipe family-style right on the cedar plank for dramatic effect. Alternatively, plate individual portions with a fresh orange wedge, scatter bright pomegranate seeds over the top for jewel-like color, or drizzle a chipotle-lime crema sauce to add creaminess. Playing with contrasting textures and colors makes this dish as eye-catching as it is delicious.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers (although they may not last long!), place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Salmon keeps well and will stay moist thanks to the skin and marinade, but be sure to keep it chilled to preserve flavor and freshness.

Freezing

You can freeze leftover salmon to enjoy later by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil or placing in a freezer-safe bag to prevent freezer burn. For best taste and texture, eat frozen salmon within 1 to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

To warm up your leftover Grilled Chipotle-Orange Salmon Recipe, gently reheat it in a skillet over low heat or in an oven set around 275°F, covered loosely with foil to prevent drying out. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can make the salmon rubbery. Adding a little splash of water or orange juice before reheating helps maintain moisture.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of wood plank if I don’t have cedar?

Absolutely! While cedar is classic for salmon because of its mellow smokiness, you can use other wood planks like alder, maple, or fruitwoods such as apple or cherry. Each will impart a unique but equally delicious smoky character.

How spicy is the chipotle in this recipe?

The chipotle chili powder adds a warm, smoky heat that’s moderate rather than overpowering. The sweetness from the orange and brown sugar balances the chili’s spice perfectly, making it approachable even for those sensitive to heat.

Do I need a grill to make this salmon recipe?

Grilling on a cedar plank is the star cooking method here because it infuses smokiness and keeps the fish moist, but if you don’t have a grill, you can bake the salmon on a plank in the oven at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes. The smokiness won’t be quite the same, but the flavors will still shine.

Can I use salmon fillets without skin?

It’s best to use skin-on salmon fillets for this recipe. The skin helps hold the fillet together during grilling and locks in moisture to keep the fish juicy and tender. Skinless fillets can be used but require extra care to prevent flaking apart and drying out.

How do I know when the salmon is perfectly cooked?

Look for caramelized, slightly crisped edges and flesh that flakes easily with a fork but still feels moist inside. Using a thermometer, the internal temperature should reach about 125°F for medium doneness. Remember, it will continue cooking a bit after it’s removed from heat.

Final Thoughts

This Grilled Chipotle-Orange Salmon Recipe is truly a standout dish that’s both easy to prepare and incredibly flavorful. Whether you’re hosting a casual weekend barbecue or a special dinner, it’s guaranteed to impress with its perfect balance of smoky, sweet, and spicy notes. Dive in and enjoy the wonderful flavors and simple joy that this recipe brings to your table — I promise it will become a cherished favorite for years to come!