BJ’s Cherry Chipotle Salmon Recipe

Looking to shake up your usual salmon dish? I know I was!

BJ’s Cherry Chipotle Salmon recipe offers a sweet and spicy twist that’s sure to become your new favorite twist on this healthy meal.

You’ll enjoy the balance of flavors in this dish—the smokiness of chipotle with the natural sweetness of cherries enhances the taste of the salmon beautifully.

Always make sure to use fresh salmon for the best results; it makes a significant difference in flavor and texture.

I love preparing this because it’s quick and easy, yet feels special enough for special guests.

Don’t shy away from basting the salmon generously with the glaze for an extra kick!

How to Make BJ’s Cherry Chipotle Salmon Recipe

Ingredients

• 4 Salmon Fillets (6 oz. each)
• 1 cup Cherry Preserves
• 2 tbsp Chipotle Peppers in Adobo Sauce (chopped)
• 1 tsp Lime Juice
• 1 tsp Ground Cumin
• 1 tbsp Olive Oil
• 1 tsp Garlic Powder
• 1/2 tsp Salt
• 1/2 tsp Black Pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Preheat your oven to 400°F.

Spray a baking sheet with olive oil to prevent sticking.

Place the salmon fillets on the sheet.

Step 2:

In a bowl, combine cherry preserves, chipotle peppers, lime juice, and cumin.

Mix well to form a smooth glaze.

Brush the salmon fillets generously with this glaze.

Step 3:

Season the salmon fillets with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.

This will enhance the flavors of the fish.

Make sure the seasoning is evenly distributed.

Step 4:

Place the salmon in the preheated oven.

Bake for 10-12 minutes or until it’s cooked to your liking.

Keep an eye on it to prevent overcooking.

Step 5:

Once the salmon is done, let it rest for a minute.

This allows the juices to redistribute within the fillet.

Serve it warm with a drizzle of extra glaze on top.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Adjust the Spice Level

If you prefer less heat, reduce the amount of chipotle peppers used.

Conversely, if you want it spicier, feel free to add more!

Use Fresh Salmon for Best Taste

Freshly bought salmon offers the best texture and flavor for this dish, unlike frozen variants.

This makes a noticeable difference in the final result.

Try Different Glaze Variations

Experiment with different fruit preserves like apricot or peach if cherries aren’t available.

Each preserves adds a unique touch and personalizes the recipe!

Don’t Overcook the Salmon

Salmon becomes dry when overcooked, so watch closely.

Check for doneness by seeing if the salmon flakes easily with a fork.

Enjoy your flavorful culinary creation!

What to Serve with BJ’s Cherry Chipotle Salmon Recipe

Roasted Asparagus

Roasted asparagus is a classic side that pairs perfectly with salmon.

The slight bitterness and crisp texture of asparagus balance the sweet and spicy glaze of the salmon.

A squeeze of lemon over the asparagus brightens the flavors even more.

Tomato and Spinach Couscous

Tomato and spinach couscous brings an exciting Mediterranean twist to your meal.

This light side dish absorbs the glaze beautifully, introducing a variety of textures.

Adding a sprinkle of pine nuts elevates the dish to a new level of flavor.

Fire-Roasted Bell Peppers

Fire-roasted bell peppers provide a smoky contrast to the luscious salmon.

Their charred skin packs a punch and complements the tangy glaze on the salmon.

A touch of balsamic vinegar can enhance their natural sweetness.

Grilled Pineapple Salsa

For something out of the ordinary, try serving grilled pineapple salsa.

The sweet-tart pineapple with herbs and a hint of spice adds an unexpected twist.

This salsa boldly complements the cherry chipotle glaze with its vibrant flavors.

Sautéed Broccolini

Sautéed broccolini is a wonderful choice to add some green to your plate.

The gentle bitterness of broccolini highlights the sweet and spicy elements of the salmon.

A pinch of red pepper flakes adds just the right amount of heat.

Variations and Substitutions

When you’re preparing BJ’s Cherry Chipotle Salmon, consider swapping the Atlantic salmon with another favorite fish like tilapia or trout.

If you enjoy a bit of extra spice, add some fresh jalapeños to the glaze mixture to give it a kick.

For a milder option, replace chipotle with smoked paprika.

Dietary Modifications

For those watching their sodium intake, use a sodium-reduced soy sauce in the glaze as an alternative.

You can substitute the honey with agave syrup to make it vegan-friendly.

For those avoiding gluten, ensure the seasoning blends and sauces used are certified gluten-free.

Alternative Side Pairings

Instead of couscous, pair the salmon with garlic mashed potatoes or a quinoa salad for a different twist.

Switch roasted asparagus with grilled zucchini or a fresh garden salad for a refreshing side.

Being flexible with ingredients helps tailor this dish to fit different dietary needs and flavor preferences.

Playing with various spices and sides can make each cooking experience unique and enjoyable!

How to Store Leftover Cherry Chipotle Salmon

Wrap the leftover cherry chipotle salmon tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it fresh.

Place the wrapped salmon into an airtight container to prevent any odors from escaping.

Store the container in the refrigerator if you plan to eat the leftovers within three days.

If you wish to store the salmon for a longer period, freezing is a great option.

Freezer Storage Tips

Wrap the salmon in plastic wrap followed by a layer of aluminum foil for better protection in the freezer.

Label the container with the date before placing it into the freezer for easy tracking.

Frozen salmon can remain in the freezer for up to two months while retaining good flavor.

Defrosting Salmon

When you plan to eat the leftovers, transfer the salmon from the freezer to the refrigerator.

Let the salmon defrost in the refrigerator overnight for the best results and optimal taste.

Using the microwave for defrosting is an alternative, but be sure to use the defrost setting to avoid cooking it.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Skipping the Marination

It’s easy to get excited and rush, but don’t skip marinating the salmon.

Letting it sit in the cherry chipotle glaze allows those flavors to soak in.

Try marinating for at least 30 minutes for enhanced taste.

Overcooking the Salmon

Keeping a close eye on the cooking time is crucial.

Salmon can overcook quickly, turning dry and tough.

Aim for a cooking time of about 10-12 minutes per inch of thickness.

Ignoring the Glaze Consistency

Watch your glaze carefully; it shouldn’t be too runny or overly thick.

A glaze that’s too thick won’t spread nicely.

You want a smooth, pourable consistency for an even coat.