How to Smoke Cajun Salmon on the Smokin’ Pro™

The Smokin’ Pro™ Barrel Grill and Offset Smoker is built for flavor-focused cooking, especially when it comes to proteins like salmon that need a gentle touch. Its offset firebox design makes it easy to smoke low and slow, allowing you to infuse that signature wood-fired taste without exposing the fish to direct heat. With heavy-duty steel construction and adjustable dampers, the Smokin’ Pro™ gives you full control over airflow and temperature—crucial when smoking delicate cuts. Whether you're experimenting with bold flavors like Cajun rubs or keeping it classic, this Char-Griller offset smoker delivers consistent heat and rich smoke, making it a top pick for anyone serious about upping their grilling game.

Smokin' Pro™ Barrel Grill and Offset Smoker

Flavor Fusion: Why Cajun Heat and Honey Sweetness Work Perfectly 

The magic of Cajun honey salmon lies in the perfect balance between spicy and sweet. The bold, smoky heat from the Cajun salmon seasoning brings a savory kick that enhances the natural richness of the fatty, flaky salmon. Meanwhile, the honey glaze adds a layer of sweetness that caramelizes beautifully on the grill, creating a sticky, flavorful crust. This classic sweet and spicy salmon recipe works because the honey tempers the spice, while the Cajun rub highlights the salmon’s meaty texture, making each bite a delicious harmony of flavors. Understanding this salmon flavor pairing is key to mastering dishes that satisfy both heat lovers and those with a sweet tooth.

How to Choose the Best Salmon for Grilling and Smoking

Choosing the right salmon is key to a great meal, whether you’re grilling, smoking, or baking. When picking salmon, look for firm, moist flesh that springs back when pressed—this means it’s fresh. The color can range from deep red to light pink, depending on the species, but it should always be vibrant and not dull. Wild-caught salmon often has a richer flavor and firmer texture, while farm-raised tends to be milder and more consistent in fat content. Also, check for a clean, ocean-like smell; any strong fishy odor is a red flag. Whether you want to grill or smoke it, choosing fresh, high-quality salmon ensures juicy, flavorful results every time.

Cajun Honey Salmon

Serves:
4
Cook Time:
0 - 30 min
Skill:
Beginner
Method:
Smoked
Food:
Seafood

Ingredients

How many people are you serving?

4

  • Main

A little sweet, a little heat, and a whole lot of smoky flavor. This Cajun Honey Salmon recipe brings bold Southern seasoning and sticky hot honey together for a perfectly balanced bite. Cooked hot and fast on the Char-Griller Smokin’ Pro Offset Smoker with just one chunk of hickory wood, this recipe is big on flavor and short on time.

Instructions

    Prep the Salmon

  1. 01

    Start by trimming your salmon fillet. If you're using a large cut, halve it for easier handling and even cooking. Trim off the thin belly and tail portions—they cook faster and can dry out. Lay a sheet of foil down on your prep surface, oil it lightly to prevent sticking, and place your salmon on top.

  2. Season

  3. 02

    Sprinkle a generous amount of Cajun seasoning over the salmon. Don’t be shy—this is where all that bold flavor comes from. Make sure to cover the top evenly. TIP: Want to kick it up a notch? Mix your Cajun seasoning with a touch of brown sugar or smoked paprika for added depth.

  4. 03

    Preheat your Char-Griller Smokin’ Pro Offset Smoker to 275–300°F. Once it’s up to temp, toss in one small chunk of hickory wood to add a touch of classic smoke flavor. Place the foil-wrapped salmon directly on the grates in the main chamber and close the lid.

  5. 04

    Let the salmon cook for about 20–30 minutes, depending on thickness. You're looking for an internal temperature of 135–140°F in the thickest part of the fillet. The beauty of this cook is the simplicity—no flipping, no fuss. Just let the smoker do the work.

  6. 05

    As soon as you pull the salmon off the heat, drizzle Melinda’s Hot Honey over the top while it’s still warm so it melts in and creates a sticky, spicy-sweet glaze. Optional: Want more kick? Use Melinda’s Ghost Pepper Honey or add a few red pepper flakes on top before serving.