Crispy Air Fryer Salmon Recipe: Quick Weeknight Dinner (Print Version)
Master the Air Fryer Salmon Recipe for flaky, flavorful fish in minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights, easy clean-up, and healthy eating.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 5 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 10 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 2 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: American
Dietary: Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free, Pescatarian
# Ingredients:
→ Main Ingredients
01 -
2 (6 oz / 170g) salmon fillets, skin-on or off
02 -
1 tablespoon olive oil
→ Flavor Boosters
03 -
1 teaspoon garlic powder
04 -
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
05 -
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
06 -
1/2 teaspoon dried dill
07 -
1/2 teaspoon sea salt
08 -
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
→ Garnish & Finishing Touches
09 -
1 lemon, cut into wedges
10 -
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
→ Optional Extras
11 -
1/2 teaspoon maple syrup or honey (for a sweet glaze)
12 -
Pinch of red pepper flakes (for a little heat)
# Instructions:
01 -
First things first, get those salmon fillets out and give them a good pat dry with paper towels. This is crucial for that crispy skin we're aiming for – remember my steamed salmon disaster? Don't be like me! Then, place them on a plate and drizzle lightly with olive oil. Rub it all over, making sure every inch is coated. It helps the seasonings really stick and develop that beautiful crust we crave for this Air Fryer Salmon Recipe.
02 -
Now for the flavor! In a small bowl, mix your garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried dill, salt, and black pepper. Stir it all up, and then sprinkle this glorious mix evenly over both sides of your salmon fillets. Don’t be shy! Gently press the seasonings into the fish. You want a nice, even coating for maximum deliciousness. I always take a moment to really smell that paprika; it just promises something good is coming.
03 -
This step is important, hon! Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes. Just like an oven, a preheated air fryer helps ensure even cooking and that beautiful crispness from the start. While it’s heating up, I usually line my air fryer basket with parchment paper designed for air fryers, or just a little foil, to make cleanup a breeze. Nobody wants to scrub sticky fish bits, right?
04 -
Carefully place the seasoned salmon fillets, skin-side down (if they have skin), in the preheated air fryer basket in a single layer. Make sure they aren't crowded; if they are, cook them in batches. Air needs to circulate! Cook for 8-12 minutes, depending on the thickness of your salmon and how well-done you like it. For a 1-inch thick fillet, 10 minutes is usually spot-on for a perfectly flaky Air Fryer Salmon Recipe.
05 -
Around the 8-minute mark, gently check your salmon. It should be opaque and flake easily with a fork. If you have a meat thermometer, the internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C). I usually give it a little poke with a fork; if it flakes, it’s ready! Sometimes I'll give it an extra minute or two if it looks a little underdone, because no one wants raw fish, obviously.
06 -
Once cooked, carefully remove the salmon from the air fryer basket. Transfer it to a plate and let it rest for 2-3 minutes. This little rest allows the juices to redistribute, keeping your salmon incredibly moist and flavorful. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the top before serving is an absolute must, in my humble opinion. The aroma of that freshly cooked Air Fryer Salmon Recipe, with a hint of lemon, is just divine!
# Notes:
01 -
Always pat your salmon super dry for that crispy skin – seriously, it makes all the difference!
02 -
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days; reheat gently in the air fryer.
03 -
If you're out of smoked paprika, a tiny pinch of chili powder can add a good kick to the seasoning.
04 -
Serving with a squeeze of fresh lemon and some chopped fresh parsley makes it feel extra special.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
Air fryer
02 -
small mixing bowl
03 -
paper towels
04 -
tongs (optional: meat thermometer)
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 350-400 kcal
Total Fat: 20-25g
Total Carbohydrate: 2-4g
Protein: 35-40g