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Grilled Chipotle-Orange Salmon Recipe

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4.3 from 13 reviews

This Grilled Chipotle-Orange Salmon recipe features succulent salmon fillets infused with smoky chipotle and bright citrus flavors. The salmon is prepared on a soaked cedar plank, which imparts a delicate smoky aroma while grilling, resulting in caramelized, flaky flesh that pairs beautifully with fresh orange slices and wedges for an impressive and flavorful meal perfect for summer gatherings or any seafood lover.

  • Total Time: 2 hours 45 minutes (including plank soaking)
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Salmon and Marinade

  • 1¾ pounds salmon fillet, with skin on and about 1″ thick at the thickest area
  • 2 teaspoons finely-zested fresh orange zest (using 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

For Garnish

  • 6 slices ¼”-thick orange slices
  • 4 orange wedges, for serving
  • Water (to soak cedar plank)

Instructions

  1. Soak the Cedar Plank: At least 2 hours prior to grilling, place the cedar grilling plank in a 9″ x 13″ rimmed pan and cover it with water by about 1 inch. Place a heavy mug or similar weight on top to keep the plank submerged. Set aside to soak – this prevents the plank from burning and helps create smoke during grilling.
  2. Prepare Salmon on Plank: About 30 minutes before grilling, move the soaked plank to a large rimmed baking sheet. Trim the salmon fillet ends if needed so there is about ½ inch bare space at each end of the plank. Place the salmon on the plank and tuck under the thinner side flesh slightly if needed to fit.
  3. Make the Chipotle-Orange Rub: In a small bowl, whisk together the orange zest, orange juice, olive oil, chipotle chili powder, cumin, and brown sugar. Rub or brush this mixture evenly over the top and sides of the salmon flesh. Season the salmon liberally with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, then arrange the orange slices atop the salmon.
  4. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high, about 435°F (220°C). Ensure the grill grates are clean and ready for cooking.
  5. Grill the Salmon on Cedar Plank: Place the plank with the salmon directly on the grill grates. Close the grill lid and cook for 20 minutes without opening, allowing the cedar to smoke and the salmon to gently cook. If the plank starts to char excessively, gently spray water on the plank (not salmon) or adjust heat as needed.
  6. Continue Cooking Salmon: After the initial 20 minutes, check the salmon every 3-5 minutes for doneness. Total cooking should be about 30-35 minutes depending on thickness. The salmon is done when it is caramelized on top and flakes easily with a fork at the thickest part. This method preserves moistness and imparts smoky, citrusy flavor.
  7. Serve: Using a large grilling spatula, carefully transfer the cedar plank with salmon to a clean rimmed pan or serving platter. Serve directly from the plank for a memorable presentation. Provide fresh orange wedges on the side for squeezing over each portion to enhance brightness and taste.

Notes

  • Soaking the cedar plank for at least 2 hours is essential to prevent burning and to create flavorful smoke.
  • Use a spray bottle with water nearby to control flare-ups or excessive charring of the plank during grilling.
  • The salmon should be skin-on, about 1 inch thick for best results and to reduce drying out.
  • The combination of chipotle chili powder and orange zest provides a great balance of smoky heat and citrus brightness.
  • If you don’t have a grilling plank, you can grill the salmon directly on the grates but expect less smoky flavor.
  • Keep the grill lid closed during cooking to retain heat and smoke for even cooking and maximal flavor infusion.
  • Author: Maya
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus 2 hours soaking time for the cedar plank)
  • Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: American

Find it online: https://recipeteach.com/grilled-chipotle-orange-salmon-recipe/