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Easy Juicy Grilled Lemon Butter Salmon Foil Packets Recipe for Perfect BBQ Fish

grilled lemon butter salmon foil packets - featured image

A quick and fuss-free grilled salmon recipe using foil packets that locks in moisture and flavor with lemon and butter, perfect for healthy and satisfying BBQ meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz / 170 g each, skin-on)
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 medium fresh lemon, sliced thinly
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh dill or parsley, chopped (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon kosher or sea salt
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • Pinch of chili flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F / 190°C), which takes around 10-15 minutes.
  2. In a small bowl, combine softened unsalted butter, minced garlic, and chopped dill or parsley. Stir until creamy and fragrant. Set aside.
  3. Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
  4. Lightly brush each fillet with olive oil on both sides. Sprinkle salt and freshly ground black pepper evenly. Add a pinch of chili flakes if desired.
  5. Tear off four large sheets of heavy-duty aluminum foil (about 12×12 inches each). Lay a few lemon slices in the center of each sheet, place a salmon fillet on top, then spread a generous tablespoon of the lemon butter mixture over the fish. Add a couple more lemon slices on top.
  6. Fold the foil over the salmon and lemon layers, crimping the edges tightly to create sealed packets.
  7. Place the foil packets on the preheated grill and cook for 12-15 minutes, depending on fillet thickness, until salmon flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
  8. Carefully remove packets from the grill using tongs and let rest for 2-3 minutes. Open foil cautiously to avoid hot steam and serve immediately.

Notes

Dry the salmon before seasoning to avoid steaming instead of grilling. Use fresh lemon slices for best flavor. Seal foil packets tightly to trap steam and juices. Avoid flipping packets during grilling to prevent leaks. Packets can be prepared ahead and refrigerated for up to 24 hours; add extra grill time if cooking from cold. If foil tears, patch with extra foil or finish cooking in the oven.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled salmon, lemon butter salmon, foil packet recipe, BBQ fish, easy salmon recipe, healthy salmon, quick dinner, outdoor grilling