Air Fried Salmon is a weeknight dinner game-changer. It’s quick, simple, and delivers crispy-on-the-outside, tender-on-the-inside perfection—every single time. If you’re looking for a nutritious meal that comes together in under 15 minutes, this air fryer salmon recipe is your go-to.
This post will guide you through everything you need to know—from choosing the best cut of salmon, seasoning options, cooking tips, and side pairings—to help you master air frying salmon like a pro. Whether you’re a busy parent, college student, or just salmon-obsessed, get ready for a flaky, flavorful dish that checks all the boxes.
Why You’ll Love This Air Fried Salmon
If you haven’t tried salmon in the air fryer yet, you’re in for a treat! Here’s why this method is a total winner:
- Ready in under 15 minutes from start to finish
- Crispy exterior, flaky interior—no flipping required
- Hands-off cooking, perfect for multitasking
- Healthy with minimal oil and maximum flavor
- Easy to season with your favorite spices or sauces
This is your new weeknight MVP, whether you’re going classic lemon and herb or spicing things up with Cajun seasoning or teriyaki glaze.
Ingredients for the Best Air Fried Salmon
You only need a handful of ingredients to get started:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each, skin-on or skinless)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika or smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Lemon wedges, for serving
💡 Tip: Fresh salmon works best for air frying, but thawed frozen fillets are also great—just be sure to pat them dry before cooking.
How to Make Air Fried Salmon
Let’s walk through the foolproof method for perfectly air fried salmon.
Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (204°C) for about 3–5 minutes. This helps the salmon cook evenly and ensures a crispy exterior.
Step 2: Season the Salmon
Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning stick and the skin crisp up. Drizzle with olive oil and rub it in evenly. Combine your garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper, then sprinkle over each fillet.
Step 3: Air Fry
Place salmon fillets skin-side down in the air fryer basket. Make sure they aren’t touching—this allows air to circulate properly. Air fry for 7 to 10 minutes, depending on thickness. No flipping needed!
- For 1-inch thick fillets: 7 minutes
- For thicker fillets: up to 10 minutes
You’ll know it’s done when the salmon flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temp of 125°F to 130°F.
Step 4: Rest & Serve
Let the salmon rest for 2–3 minutes. Serve with lemon wedges and your favorite sides.
Flavor Variations to Try
This Air Fried Salmon is endlessly customizable. Try one of these fun twists:
- Asian-Inspired: Brush with teriyaki sauce or soy-ginger glaze before or after cooking.
- Spicy Cajun: Add a Cajun seasoning blend or a sprinkle of cayenne for heat.
- Maple Dijon: Mix maple syrup and Dijon mustard for a sweet and tangy glaze.
- Lemon Herb: Add lemon zest, fresh thyme, and parsley before air frying.
You can also top it with a dollop of garlic herb butter or a drizzle of pesto for even more richness.
What to Serve with Air Fried Salmon
Pair this salmon with your favorite healthy sides or keep it casual with comfort food classics. Here are some tasty options:
- Garlic mashed potatoes or roasted baby potatoes
- Air fryer broccoli, green beans, or Brussels sprouts
- Wild rice or quinoa
- Cucumber dill salad or coleslaw
- Pasta with lemon butter sauce
✅ Pro Tip: Want a low-carb option? Serve with cauliflower mash or sautéed zucchini noodles.
Pro Tips for Perfect Air Fried Salmon
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket—leave space between each fillet.
- Use a meat thermometer for perfect doneness without guesswork.
- Don’t overcook! Salmon is best when just opaque and still moist inside.
- Pat dry the fillets before seasoning to help with crisping and flavor absorption.
- Add a sauce or glaze during the last 2 minutes of cooking if desired.
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3–5 minutes, or microwave on 50% power.
- Freeze cooked salmon in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
FAQs About Air Fried Salmon
Can I air fry frozen salmon?
Yes, but it’s best to thaw it first. If cooking from frozen, rinse under cold water, pat dry, and add 3–5 extra minutes to the cook time.
Should I remove the skin before air frying?
Not necessary! The skin crisps up beautifully in the air fryer. You can easily slide it off after cooking if you prefer.
Can I make this recipe keto or paleo?
Absolutely! This air fried salmon is naturally low-carb, gluten-free, and dairy-free. It’s keto- and paleo-friendly as-is.
Health Benefits of Air Fried Salmon
Air Fried Salmon isn’t just tasty—it’s incredibly good for you, too. Each fillet is packed with:
- Heart-healthy omega-3s
- High-quality protein
- Vitamin D, B12, and selenium
- Anti-inflammatory properties
And since air frying uses less oil, you get all the flavor and texture of pan-seared or oven-roasted salmon—without the extra fat.
Final Thoughts
Air Fried Salmon is the secret to quick, healthy, and incredibly flavorful dinners. With just a handful of pantry ingredients and less than 15 minutes of cook time, you’ll have a restaurant-worthy meal that feels gourmet without the stress.
Whether you’re a salmon lover or air fryer newbie, this recipe is the perfect introduction to healthy cooking that doesn’t compromise on taste. Add your favorite twist and make it your own—this one’s sure to be a weeknight staple!