Cooking salmon can feel like walking a tightrope—too little, and it’s sushi, too much, and it’s suddenly jerky. That’s where this salmon air fryer recipe saves the day.
With just a handful of ingredients and less than 15 minutes of your time, you can create salmon that’s crispy on the outside, tender and flaky on the inside, and packed with flavor. It’s fast, it’s foolproof, and, best of all, it makes you feel like a pro chef with minimal effort.
Whether you’re new to air frying or just looking for a quick dinner that doesn’t involve watching a pan like a hawk, this recipe is about to become a favorite.
Looking for other salmon ideas? Try our Bake Salmon in Oven Recipe for a classic preparation, or experiment with a smoky Grilled Salmon Recipe for BBQ nights.
What Makes This Salmon Air Fryer Recipe Special
The air fryer isn’t just a kitchen gadget—it’s a lifestyle. And when it comes to salmon recipes air fryer, it works like magic. Why?
- Speed: No waiting for the oven to preheat, no flipping fillets on a skillet—just season, fry, and eat.
- Texture: You get crispy edges with a juicy, flaky middle. It’s like having your own personal chef cooking salmon to perfection.
- Ease of Cleanup: One basket, minimal mess. Your sink will thank you.
Oh, and did I mention the air fryer doesn’t heat up your whole kitchen? That’s a win, especially when you’re cooking in the summer.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This salmon recipe air fryer keeps things simple, but the flavors are anything but basic.
For the Salmon:
- 4 salmon fillets (skin-on if you’re a crispy-skin fan, skinless works too)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika (optional, but it adds a smoky vibe)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional Garnishes:
- Lemon wedges (for that extra zing)
- Fresh dill or parsley (because herbs make everything prettier)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Ready to transform your salmon game? Let’s do this!
Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer
If your air fryer needs preheating, set it to 390°F (200°C) and let it heat for 3–5 minutes. Think of it as your fryer getting into its groove.
Step 2: Season the Salmon
Pat those fillets dry—this helps them crisp up beautifully. Brush each one lightly with olive oil, then sprinkle with garlic powder, paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. It’s simple, but trust me, the flavor will shine.
Step 3: Load Up the Basket
Place the salmon fillets in a single layer in your air fryer basket. No overlapping! Give those fillets some breathing room for even cooking.
Step 4: Air Fry the Salmon
Cook for 8–10 minutes. If your fillets are on the thinner side, check around the 8-minute mark. Use a fork to see if the salmon flakes easily, or check that the internal temp is 125°F–130°F for medium or 145°F if you like it well-done.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Carefully remove the fillets (they’ll be hot!) and plate them up. Add a squeeze of lemon juice, a sprinkle of fresh dill, and maybe a side of pride in your culinary skills.
Want something different? Try our Honey Garlic Salmon for a sweet-savory twist that’s just as easy.
Pro Tips for Success
- Don’t Crowd the Basket: Air fryers need space to work their magic. Give those fillets room to breathe.
- Fresh is Best: If you can, go for fresh salmon fillets. They’re easier to work with and taste amazing.
- Love the Skin? Keep it on! Air fryers make crispy salmon skin without any extra effort.
- Experiment with Flavors: Swap garlic powder for lemon pepper, try Cajun seasoning, or even add a touch of honey for a sweet-and-savory twist.
- Timing Matters: Every air fryer is a little different. Start with 8 minutes, then check and adjust.
For more air fryer tips and tricks, visit Air Fryer Cooking Tips for inspiration.
What to Serve With Salmon Air Fryer Recipe
This air fryer salmon recipe is a star on its own, but every star needs a supporting cast. Here’s what to pair it with:
- Roasted Veggies: Pop some asparagus, zucchini, or Brussels sprouts in the air fryer while the salmon cooks.
- Rice or Quinoa: Perfect for soaking up any extra juices.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy, buttery, and a perfect complement to crispy salmon.
- Fresh Salad: Keep it light with a crisp green salad and tangy vinaigrette.
Looking for more pairing ideas? Check out Side Dishes for Salmon for more inspiration.
Storage and Leftovers
Got leftovers? Lucky you! This salmon recipe air fryer is just as good the next day.
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Pop the salmon back in the air fryer at 350°F for 2–3 minutes. It’ll regain its crispiness without drying out.
- Repurpose: Flake the salmon and toss it in a salad, mix it into pasta, or stuff it into tacos for an easy second-day meal.
Similar Recipes to Try
Love this salmon air fryer recipe? Here are more ideas to keep your salmon rotation fresh:
Salmon Air Fryer Recipe
Ingredients
- For the Salmon:
- 4 salmon fillets skin-on or skinless
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika optional
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional Garnishes:
- Lemon wedges
- Fresh dill or parsley
Instructions
- Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Set the air fryer to 390°F (200°C) and preheat for 3–5 minutes.
- Prepare the Salmon:
- Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel. Lightly brush each fillet with olive oil. Sprinkle garlic powder, paprika (if using), salt, and pepper evenly over the fillets.
- Arrange in the Basket:
- Place the salmon fillets in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving space between them for even cooking.
- Cook the Salmon:
- Air fry the salmon for 8–10 minutes. Check for doneness around 8 minutes—the salmon should flake easily with a fork and have an internal temperature of 125°F–130°F for medium or 145°F for well-done.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Remove the salmon carefully and plate. Garnish with fresh dill or parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Storage: Refrigerate leftover salmon in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 2–3 minutes to restore its crispiness.
- Freezing: You can freeze cooked salmon for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Pro Tip: Experiment with flavors! Try adding lemon pepper, Cajun seasoning, or a drizzle of honey for a fun twist on this recipe.
And there you have it—the easiest, tastiest salmon air fryer recipe you’ll ever make. From crispy edges to tender, flaky insides, this recipe has everything you need for a foolproof salmon dinner.
Whether you’re a busy weeknight cook or hosting a weekend dinner party, this dish is sure to impress. So, grab those fillets, fire up your air fryer, and prepare to wow your taste buds (and anyone lucky enough to share your table).
Tried this recipe? Let me know how it turned out! Drop your tips, twists, or questions in the comments—I’d love to hear from you.
