Air Fryer Salmon Recipe: Perfectly Flaky In 13 Minutes

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I used to be intimidated by cooking salmon at home. Too often, it would come out dry and overcooked, or worse, undercooked in the middle with burnt edges.

Then I discovered the air fryer. This Air Fryer Salmon Recipe completely changed how I approach cooking fish at home.

The circulating hot air creates the most incredible crust on the outside while keeping the inside moist and tender. No more guessing, no more disappointing dinners. Just perfectly cooked salmon every single time.

Quick Recipe Summary
Prep Time	5 minutes
Cook Time	8 minutes
Total Time	13 minutes
Servings	4 fillets
Difficulty Level	Easy

Air Fryer Salmon Recipe – Delicious and Beginner-Friendly

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Salmon Recipe

This recipe has become my go-to weeknight dinner for so many reasons. The salmon comes out restaurant-quality every time, with a beautiful caramelized exterior and tender, flaky interior that literally melts in your mouth.

The best part is how incredibly fast it is. From start to finish, you’re looking at about 13 minutes total, which means you can have a healthy, delicious dinner on the table faster than ordering takeout. No preheating a big oven, no splattering oil, no fishy smell lingering in your kitchen for hours.

Here’s what makes this recipe so special:

Foolproof cooking method: The air fryer’s consistent heat means no more dried out or undercooked salmon
Minimal cleanup: Just the air fryer basket to wash, no greasy pans or baking sheets
Crispy exterior: That beautiful golden crust you’d normally only get from pan-searing
Healthy cooking: Uses just a small amount of oil while still delivering incredible flavor
Versatile seasoning: Works beautifully with countless flavor combinations
Budget-friendly: Makes expensive salmon fillets stretch further with perfect portions

For more delicious seafood options, try my grilled salmon with dill sauce.

Ingredients

This recipe keeps things simple with just a few high-quality ingredients that let the salmon shine. I’ve learned that when you’re working with good fish, you don’t need to overcomplicate things.

4 salmon fillets (6 oz/170g each, about 1 inch/2.5cm thick, skin-on or skinless)
2 tablespoons olive oil (30ml)
1 tablespoon lemon juice (15ml, freshly squeezed)
2 teaspoons garlic powder (6g)
1 teaspoon paprika (3g)
1 teaspoon dried dill (1g) or 1 tablespoon fresh dill (3g)
1 teaspoon sea salt (6g)
½ teaspoon black pepper (1g)
Lemon wedges for serving
Fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional)

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Having the right tools makes this recipe even easier. Here’s what you’ll need to create perfectly cooked air fryer salmon.

Air fryer (I use a 5.8-quart model, but any size works)
Small mixing bowl for the seasoning mixture
Pastry brush or spoon for applying oil
Meat thermometer (optional but helpful)
Tongs or fish spatula for removing the salmon
Measuring spoons
Cutting board

Recommended Products for This Recipe

After making this recipe hundreds of times, I’ve found a few products that truly make a difference in the final result.

1. Wild Alaskan Salmon Fillets

The quality of your salmon makes all the difference here. I always opt for wild-caught Alaskan salmon when I can find it. The flavor is richer, the texture is firmer, and it holds up beautifully in the air fryer without falling apart.

Get it on Amazon

2. Cosori Air Fryer

I’ve tested this recipe in multiple air fryers, but my Cosori consistently delivers the most even cooking. The square basket design fits salmon fillets perfectly without crowding, and the temperature control is incredibly precise.

Get it on Amazon

3. California Olive Ranch Extra Virgin Olive Oil

A good olive oil is essential for getting that gorgeous golden crust. I use California Olive Ranch because it has a high smoke point and adds a subtle fruity flavor that complements the salmon perfectly.

Get it on Amazon

4. ThermoPro Digital Meat Thermometer

While not absolutely necessary, a digital meat thermometer takes all the guesswork out of cooking salmon. I check for that perfect 145°F (63°C) internal temperature, and my salmon comes out perfectly cooked every single time.

Get it on Amazon

Another fantastic option is my baked salmon with asparagus and lemon.

Air Fryer Salmon Recipe – Family-Friendly & Kid Approved

Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Air Fryer Salmon

I’ve broken down every step so you can achieve perfect results, even if this is your first time making air fryer salmon.

1. Prepare the Salmon Fillets

Remove the salmon fillets from the refrigerator about 15 minutes before cooking to bring them to room temperature (this helps them cook more evenly)
Pat the fillets completely dry with paper towels (this is crucial for getting a nice crispy exterior)
If your salmon has skin and you want to remove it, slide a sharp knife between the skin and flesh, angling the knife slightly downward
Check for any remaining pin bones by running your fingers along the flesh, and remove them with tweezers or pliers
Place the salmon fillets on a clean cutting board or plate

2. Make the Seasoning Mixture

In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, paprika, dried dill, sea salt, and black pepper
Mix thoroughly with a spoon until all the spices are evenly distributed
Drizzle in the lemon juice and olive oil
Stir until you have a paste-like consistency (it should look a bit like a loose rub)

3. Season the Salmon

Using a pastry brush or the back of a spoon, brush the olive oil mixture over the top and sides of each salmon fillet
Make sure to coat evenly, paying special attention to the edges (they can dry out if not properly coated)
If you’re using skin-on salmon, you can lightly oil the skin side as well, though most of the seasoning should go on the flesh side
Let the seasoned salmon sit for 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate

4. Preheat the Air Fryer

Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C)
Allow it to preheat for 3-5 minutes (some models preheat faster than others)
Preheating ensures the salmon starts cooking immediately and develops that beautiful crust
If your air fryer doesn’t have a preheat function, just run it empty at 400°F for 3 minutes

5. Arrange the Salmon in the Air Fryer

Lightly spray or brush the air fryer basket with oil to prevent sticking
Place the salmon fillets in the basket skin-side down (if using skin-on salmon) or directly on the basket (if skinless)
Leave at least ½ inch (1.25cm) of space between each fillet for proper air circulation
If your fillets are particularly thick (more than 1.5 inches/4cm), you may need to cook them in batches

6. Air Fry the Salmon

Cook the salmon at 400°F (200°C) for 7-9 minutes, depending on thickness (7 minutes for thinner fillets, 9 minutes for thicker ones)
Resist the urge to open the air fryer during cooking as this releases heat and extends cooking time
The salmon is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and flakes easily with a fork
For medium-rare salmon, which I personally prefer, aim for 125-130°F (52-54°C) in the center

7. Check for Doneness

Carefully open the air fryer basket (steam will escape, so watch your hands)
Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of one fillet to check the temperature
The salmon should look opaque on the outside with a slightly translucent center (if you prefer it medium-rare)
Gently press the top of the fillet with a fork to see if it flakes easily
If it needs more time, cook in 1-2 minute increments until it reaches your desired doneness

8. Rest and Serve

Using a fish spatula or tongs, carefully remove the salmon from the air fryer basket
Transfer to a serving plate and let rest for 2-3 minutes (this allows the juices to redistribute throughout the fish)
Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or dill
Serve immediately while still warm

You might also enjoy my healthy alfredo sauce as a topping.

Air Fryer Salmon Recipe – Perfect for Clean Eating and Meal Prep

Tips for The Best Air Fryer Salmon

After making this recipe countless times, I’ve picked up some tricks that guarantee perfect results every time.

Choose uniform thickness: Try to select salmon fillets that are roughly the same thickness so they cook at the same rate
Don’t overcrowd: Give each fillet space to breathe; crowding leads to steaming instead of that crispy exterior we’re after
Pat it dry: This is the single most important step for crispy salmon; any moisture on the surface will create steam
Room temperature matters: Cold salmon straight from the fridge won’t cook as evenly
Check early: Air fryers vary in temperature accuracy, so check your salmon a minute or two before the recommended time
Keep the skin on: If you’re using skin-on salmon, the skin protects the flesh and adds flavor (you can easily remove it after cooking if you don’t want to eat it)
Flip halfway through: For extra crispy salmon, carefully flip the fillets halfway through cooking time
Use parchment paper: Cut air fryer parchment paper to size and place it under the salmon to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier
Adjust for thickness: A thicker 1.5-inch fillet needs closer to 10-11 minutes, while a thinner ¾-inch fillet only needs 6-7 minutes
Let it rest: Those few minutes of resting time make a real difference in how moist the salmon stays

Serving Suggestions

Air fryer salmon is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with so many sides. Here’s how I like to serve it.

This salmon is elegant enough for a dinner party but simple enough for a Tuesday night meal. I often serve it over a bed of mixed greens with a light vinaigrette, or alongside roasted vegetables for a complete, healthy dinner.

My favorite serving ideas:

With rice and vegetables: Serve over fluffy white rice or quinoa with steamed broccoli and maple glazed carrots
On a salad: Break the salmon into chunks and toss with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a lemon vinaigrette
Taco style: Flake the salmon and serve in warm tortillas with shredded cabbage, healthy guacamole, and lime crema
With pasta: Toss with angel hair pasta, olive oil, garlic, and fresh herbs for a simple Italian-inspired meal
Mediterranean plate: Serve with healthy hummus, pita bread, cucumber salad, and tzatziki
Asian-inspired bowl: Pair with cauliflower fried rice and steamed bok choy
With potatoes: Serve alongside healthy mashed potatoes and green beans
Breakfast style: Place over avocado toast with a poached egg on top

For something different, check out my zucchini noodles with pesto and shrimp bowls.

Variations of Air Fryer Salmon

One of the best things about this recipe is how easily you can customize it. I rotate through these variations to keep things interesting.

Teriyaki glazed: Brush with teriyaki sauce during the last 2 minutes of cooking for a sweet and savory glaze
Cajun spiced: Replace the paprika and dill with 2 tablespoons of Cajun seasoning for a spicy kick
Honey mustard: Mix 2 tablespoons honey with 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard and brush over the salmon before cooking
Everything bagel: Sprinkle everything bagel seasoning over the oiled salmon for a fun twist
Lemon pepper: Use only lemon zest, black pepper, and salt for a classic, simple flavor
Asian-inspired: Use sesame oil instead of olive oil and season with ginger, garlic, and a splash of soy sauce
Herb crusted: Press a mixture of fresh chopped herbs (parsley, dill, thyme) into the top of the salmon
Maple glazed: Brush with pure maple syrup mixed with a touch of soy sauce and garlic for the last 2 minutes
Mediterranean: Top with chopped Kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and feta cheese in the last minute of cooking
Pesto topped: Spread a thin layer of pesto over the salmon before air frying

Storage and Reheating

Leftover air fryer salmon stays delicious for days when stored properly. Here’s what I’ve learned about keeping it fresh.

Refrigerator Storage:

Allow the cooked salmon to cool completely to room temperature (about 30 minutes)
Transfer to an airtight container or wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil
Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
Keep away from strong-smelling foods as salmon can absorb odors

Freezer Storage:

Cool the salmon completely before freezing
Wrap each fillet individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag or container
Label with the date and store for up to 2 months
Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating

Reheating Instructions:

Air fryer method (best): Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 3-4 minutes until warmed through
Oven method: Place on a baking sheet and reheat at 275°F (135°C) for 10-15 minutes
Microwave method (fastest but least recommended): Heat on medium power in 30-second intervals to avoid drying out
Cold serving: Honestly, leftover salmon is delicious served cold in salads or as a protein topping

Pro tip: Add a small pat of butter on top before reheating to keep the salmon moist.

Nutritional Facts

Per serving (1 salmon fillet, approximately 6 oz/170g):

Calories: 280
Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 95mg
Sodium: 650mg
Total Carbohydrates: 2g
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 0g
Protein: 34g
Vitamin D: 570 IU (142% DV)
Calcium: 25mg (2% DV)
Iron: 1mg (6% DV)
Potassium: 628mg (18% DV)
Omega-3 Fatty Acids: 2,200mg

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on the specific type of salmon used and exact measurements.

Health Benefits of Key Ingredients

This recipe isn’t just delicious; it’s genuinely good for you. Here’s why these ingredients make such a healthy combination.

Salmon is one of the most nutrient-dense foods on the planet, packed with high-quality protein and omega-3 fatty acids that support heart health, brain function, and reduce inflammation throughout the body.

Key health benefits:

Omega-3 fatty acids: Essential for heart health, brain function, and reducing inflammation. A single serving provides more than your daily recommended intake
High-quality protein: Helps build and repair tissues, supports muscle growth, and keeps you feeling full and satisfied
Vitamin D: Critical for bone health, immune function, and mood regulation. Most people are deficient, making salmon an excellent dietary source
B vitamins: Especially B12, which supports energy production, brain health, and the formation of red blood cells
Selenium: A powerful antioxidant that supports thyroid function and protects against oxidative stress
Astaxanthin: The compound that gives salmon its pink color; it’s a potent antioxidant that protects skin from sun damage
Olive oil: Rich in monounsaturated fats and antioxidants that support heart health and reduce inflammation
Garlic: Contains compounds that boost immune function and may help lower blood pressure and cholesterol
Low mercury content: Compared to larger fish like tuna, salmon is relatively low in mercury, making it safe to eat regularly

FAQs About Air Fryer Salmon

1. Do I need to flip the salmon while cooking in the air fryer?

No, you don’t need to flip the salmon. The air fryer’s circulating hot air cooks the salmon evenly from all sides.

However, if you want an extra crispy top, you can carefully flip it halfway through the cooking time using a fish spatula.

2. Can I cook frozen salmon in the air fryer?

Yes, you can cook frozen salmon directly in the air fryer. Add 3-5 minutes to the cooking time and increase the temperature to 390°F (199°C).

Keep in mind that the seasoning won’t stick as well to frozen salmon, so I recommend thawing it first when possible for the best flavor and texture.

3. How do I know when the salmon is done?

The most reliable method is using a meat thermometer. Salmon is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) in the thickest part.

Visually, it should be opaque throughout and flake easily with a fork. If you prefer medium-rare salmon like I do, aim for 125-130°F (52-54°C).

4. Why is my air fryer salmon dry?

Dry salmon usually means it’s been overcooked. Since air fryers cook quickly, even an extra minute or two can make a big difference.

I recommend checking your salmon at the 6-minute mark, especially if your fillets are on the thinner side. Also, make sure you’re using enough oil, as this helps keep the salmon moist during cooking.

5. What’s the best type of salmon to use in the air fryer?

I prefer wild-caught salmon, particularly sockeye or coho, for the best flavor and texture. These varieties have a firmer texture that holds up beautifully in the air fryer.

Atlantic salmon (usually farm-raised) also works well and tends to be more affordable. Just avoid pre-marinated salmon as the sugars in the marinade can burn in the high heat of the air fryer.

Recommended: Turkey and quinoa stuffed peppers

Final Thoughts

This Air Fryer Salmon Recipe has genuinely transformed how often I serve fish at home. It’s become my answer to busy weeknights when I want something healthy, delicious, and ready in minutes.

The best part is how forgiving it is once you get the hang of it. Even if you’re a complete beginner with cooking fish, the air fryer makes it nearly impossible to mess up.

I hope you’ll give this recipe a try and experience just how simple and delicious home-cooked salmon can be. Once you taste that perfectly crispy exterior and tender, flaky interior, you’ll wonder why you ever hesitated to cook salmon at home.

If you make this recipe, I’d love to hear how it turned out! Drop a comment below and let me know what variations you tried or how you served it.

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Air Fryer Salmon Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Salmon Recipe

Ingredients

Kitchen Equipment Needed