How Long to Grill Salmon in Foil on a Gas Grill?

Grilling salmon in foil on a gas grill is one of the easiest and most foolproof ways to prepare this delicious and nutritious fish. Not only does it keep the salmon moist and tender, but it also prevents sticking, reduces flare-ups, and simplifies cleanup. Whether you’re a seasoned griller or a beginner, using foil to cook salmon ensures consistent results every time.

One of the most common questions is: How long should you grill salmon in foil on a gas grill? The short answer is 10 to 15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillet and grill temperature. However, achieving perfect salmon requires a few essential steps, from preparation to cooking techniques. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the entire process, providing tips to ensure your salmon turns out juicy and flavorful every time.

Preparing the Salmon

Before placing the salmon on the grill, proper preparation is key. Here’s how to get your salmon ready:

1. Choosing the Right Salmon

• Opt for fresh, high-quality salmon whenever possible. Look for fillets with firm flesh and a mild, ocean-like scent.
• If using frozen salmon, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or place it in a sealed bag under cold running water.
• Wild-caught salmon (like sockeye or king) is often preferred for its rich flavor, while farm-raised varieties offer a milder taste and higher fat content.

2. Seasoning the Salmon

Salmon is naturally flavorful, but seasoning enhances its taste. You can keep it simple or get creative with your seasoning.

• Basic seasoning: Olive oil, salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
• Herb-infused: Fresh dill, parsley, or thyme with garlic and butter.
• Asian-inspired: Soy sauce, ginger, and honey.
• Spicy kick: Cajun seasoning or chili flakes for heat.

Apply the seasoning evenly on both sides of the fillet. If desired, you can also add thinly sliced onions, lemon slices, or other aromatics to enhance flavor.

3. Wrapping the Salmon in Foil

• Use heavy-duty aluminum foil to prevent tearing.
• Place the salmon skin-side down on a sheet of foil.
• Fold the edges of the foil over the fish, sealing it into a packet. This traps steam and locks in moisture.
• If adding vegetables (such as asparagus, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers), place them around the salmon before sealing the packet.

Preheating the Gas Grill

Preheating is crucial for even cooking and to prevent sticking.

• Set your gas grill to medium heat (375–400°F).
• Allow the grill to preheat for about 10 minutes with the lid closed.
• If your grill has multiple burners, turn one side to medium heat for direct cooking and leave another side on low for indirect cooking. This provides more control over cooking time.

Grilling Time and Technique

The ideal grill time for salmon in foil depends on the fillet’s thickness:

• Thin fillets (½ inch or less): 10 minutes.
• Medium fillets (¾ inch): 12–14 minutes.
• Thick fillets (1 inch or more): 15 minutes.

Direct vs. Indirect Heat

• Direct heat: Cooks faster but requires more attention to prevent overcooking.
• Indirect heat: Cooks more evenly, preventing burning and keeping the salmon moist.

For best results, place the foil packet over indirect heat and close the grill lid. This allows the salmon to steam in its own juices, ensuring tenderness.

Checking for Doneness

There are three ways to check if your salmon is done:

1. Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer. The salmon is done when it reaches 145°F (63°C) at the thickest part.
2. Flake Test: Gently press the salmon with a fork. If it flakes easily and is opaque throughout, it’s ready.
3. Visual Check: The flesh should be a light pinkish-orange color and slightly translucent in the center when removed from heat. It will continue cooking for a couple of minutes off the grill.

Removing and Serving the Salmon

• Once done, let the salmon rest for 3–5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
• Carefully open the foil packet, as the trapped steam will be hot.
• Serve immediately with your favorite side dishes, such as grilled vegetables, rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad.

Tips for Best Results

To ensure perfect grilled salmon every time, keep these expert tips in mind:

• Use skin-on salmon for added flavor and moisture retention. The skin also prevents the fillet from falling apart.
• Don’t overcook! Salmon dries out quickly, so keep an eye on cooking time.
• Add butter or oil inside the foil to enhance moisture and richness.
• Experiment with marinades for different flavor profiles. A simple honey mustard glaze or teriyaki sauce can add a delicious twist.
• Avoid flipping the foil packet. Since the fish is enclosed, flipping is unnecessary and may cause juices to leak out.

Conclusion

Grilling salmon in foil on a gas grill is a simple yet flavorful way to enjoy this nutritious fish. By following the proper steps choosing high-quality salmon, seasoning it well, preheating the grill, and cooking for 10 to 15 minutes you’ll achieve perfectly grilled salmon every time.

The convenience of using foil not only locks in moisture but also ensures easy cleanup, making it an excellent method for both weeknight dinners and special gatherings. Whether you enjoy it with a squeeze of lemon, a side of roasted vegetables, or a drizzle of homemade sauce, grilled salmon is a healthy and delicious meal worth adding to your grilling routine.