Air fryer salmon is the BEST way to cook salmon that turns out tender and flaky every single time! Ready in just 6 minutes, this recipe uses simple ingredients and has minimal prep.
Need a fast and easy way to cook salmon? This air fryer salmon recipe is your answer
It’s healthier than frying the fish and so much quicker than baking it. It yields perfectly cooked salmon every time that tastes incredible.Why this recipe works
This salmon may look elegant and fancy, but it’s honestly so easy to whip up.
Ready in 6 minutes. In our household, we used to bake salmon or pan-sear salmon, but once our air fryer arrived, it became our favorite way to cook this fish as it takes a fraction of the time (along with air fryer salmon bites).
It’s a healthy meal option. Salmon is a nutritious and healthy source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, and cooking it in the air fryer allows you to enjoy all of its health benefits without added oil or fat.
Perfect texture and flavor. Nothing is worse than over-cooked rubbery salmon, and the air fryer guarantees the fish turns out crispy on the outside and perfectly flaky in the middle. The simple seasoning blend doesn’t overtake the natural sweetness of the fish.Ingredients needed
Salmon in the air fryer is so easy, and besides the fish and some seasonings, there isn’t much else that is needed to make. Here is what you’ll need:
Salmon fillets. Skin-on salmon is preferred, as it helps cook it completely. However, skinless salmon works well too.
Olive oil. Although salmon is a naturally oily fish, adding a touch of oil will help the seasonings stick to the fish and also avoid it sticking to the basket.
Salt and pepper. To taste.
Brown sugar. The secret ingredient! Adding a touch of sugar helps caramelize the fish and gives it a crispy exterior and a very subtle sweetness.
Spices. Smoked paprika, garlic, and onion powder enhance the flavor of the fish and gives it a lovely, smokey flavor.
How to make air fryer salmon
Air fryer salmon with skin is easy to make: the only thing to remember is to pat dry the fish before adding any seasonings.Season the salmon. Add the salmon and olive oil into a small bowl and mix. Add the salt, pepper, and spices, and rub them onto the fish. Ensure all sides of the fish are seasoned.
Air fry the salmon. Put the seasoned salmon in the air fryer basket and air fry for 6 minutes. Remove the salmon and serve immediately. Season the salmon. Add the salmon and olive oil into a small bowl and mix. Add the salt, pepper, and spices, and rub them onto the fish. Ensure all sides of the fish are seasoned.
Air fry the salmon. Put the seasoned salmon in the air fryer basket and air fry for 6 minutes. Remove the salmon and serve immediately.
how to cook salmon in the air fryer.Tips to make the best recipe
Choose even-sized salmon fillets. Opt for fillets that are similar in size and weight. This will ensure the fish cooks evenly, completely, and at the same time.
Use an instant-read thermometer. To ensure your salmon cooks perfectly, you can check the internal temperature. The FDA recommends cooking salmon to an internal temperature of 145°F.
Don’t overcrowd the basket. If needed, cook the fish in batches, as adding too many to the air fryer basket will affect how quickly the salmon is cooked and also over-cook certain sides.To Store: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To freeze: Place the cooked and cooled salmon in a ziplock bag and store it in the freezer for up to two months.More delicious seafood to air fry
Tilapia
Shrimp
Cod
Mahi Mahi
Coconut shrimp
Frequently asked questions
How do you flip a salmon fillet?
There is no need to flip the salmon in this recipe as the skin is still intact. Salmon can be quite delicate, and flipping it risks the fish breaking apart.
Can I use frozen salmon in the air fryer?
Yes! You can use frozen salmon, and there is no need to thaw it, either. Just remember to increase the cooking time by 2 minutes to compensate.
Should the salmon be skinless or skin-on?
This recipe works with either kind of salmon and the cooking time will remain the same.
