Name: Crispy Easy Air Fryer Salmon Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each), skin-on or skinless; 1 tablespoon olive oil (or avocado oil); 1 teaspoon kosher salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (or sweet paprika); 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; 1 lemon, cut into wedges (for serving); Optional garnish: chopped fresh parsley or dill

If you’re craving a quick dinner that tastes like a restaurant meal, this crispy air fryer salmon has your back. It cooks in under 10 minutes, comes out flaky inside with a golden crust, and uses simple pantry ingredients. No special tricks, no babysitting a pan, and barely any cleanup.

Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, this method delivers consistent results. Add a salad, rice, or roasted veggies, and dinner is done.

What Makes This Recipe So Good

Fast and reliable: From preheat to plate in about 15 minutes, with a crisp exterior and juicy center every time.
Minimal ingredients: Simple seasoning lets the salmon shine, and you can tweak the flavors easily.
Healthier cooking: The air fryer uses little oil but still gives you that satisfying crust.
Weeknight-friendly: No splatter, no sticking, and almost no cleanup.
Flexible: Works with fresh or thawed fillets, skin-on or skinless.

Ingredients

4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each), skin-on or skinless
1 tablespoon olive oil (or avocado oil)
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika (or sweet paprika)
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1 lemon, cut into wedges (for serving)
Optional garnish: chopped fresh parsley or dill

How To Make This Easy Air Fryer Salmon Recipe

Preheat the air fryer: Set it to 400°F (200°C) for 3–5 minutes. A hot basket helps the salmon crisp up.
Pat the salmon dry: Use paper towels to remove surface moisture.
Dry fish equals better browning.
Oil and season: Rub each fillet with olive oil. Mix salt, pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and onion powder, then sprinkle all over the fillets. If using skin-on salmon, season the flesh side more generously.
Arrange in the basket: Place fillets in a single layer, skin side down if they have skin.
Leave a little space between pieces so air can circulate.
Air fry: Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 7–10 minutes, depending on thickness. Start checking at 7 minutes. The salmon is ready when it flakes easily and reaches 125–130°F in the center for moist, medium doneness.
Rest briefly: Let the salmon sit for 2 minutes.
Residual heat finishes the cooking and keeps it juicy.
Finish and serve: Squeeze fresh lemon over the top and sprinkle with parsley or dill. Serve with rice, quinoa, mixed greens, or roasted vegetables.

How to Store

Refrigerate: Store cooled salmon in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently: Air fry at 300°F (150°C) for 3–4 minutes or microwave at 50% power in short bursts to avoid drying it out.
Freeze: Wrap fillets tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as above.
Meal prep tip: Keep sauces and sides separate, and add fresh lemon right before serving to brighten the flavor.

Why This is Good for You

High-quality protein: Salmon keeps you full and supports muscle repair.
Rich in omega-3s: These healthy fats support brain and heart health and can help reduce inflammation.
Nutrient-dense: Salmon provides vitamin D, B vitamins, and selenium.
Lower oil use: The air fryer method gives you crisp results without a deep fry.

What Not to Do

Don’t skip drying the fish: Moisture on the surface prevents the crust from forming.
Don’t overcrowd the basket: Crowding traps steam and leads to soggy fish.
Don’t overcook: Salmon dries out fast.
Use a thermometer or check for easy flaking.
Don’t put lemon slices on during cooking: They can scorch and turn bitter. Add fresh lemon after.
Don’t use thick, sticky marinades without adjusting: They can burn at high heat. Brush on a glaze in the last 1–2 minutes instead.

Delicious and easy air fryer salmon recipe

Variations You Can Try

Honey Garlic: Mix 1 tablespoon honey with 1 teaspoon soy sauce and 1 minced garlic clove.
Brush on during the last 2 minutes.
Lemon Herb: Replace paprika with 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning and finish with extra lemon zest.
Cajun Spice: Use a Cajun blend instead of the listed spices for a spicier kick.
Maple Mustard: Stir 1 tablespoon maple syrup with 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard. Brush on at the end for a glossy glaze.
Panko Crunch: Press a light layer of oiled panko on top before cooking. Air fry 1–2 minutes longer, watching closely so it doesn’t burn.
Miso Ginger: Mix 1 tablespoon white miso with 1 teaspoon rice vinegar and a little grated ginger.
Brush on in the final minute.

FAQ’s For This Easy Air Fryer Salmon Recipe

Can I cook frozen salmon in the air fryer?

Yes, but it works best with thawed fish for even seasoning and texture. If cooking from frozen, air fry for 3–4 minutes to thaw, pat dry, season, then cook another 7–9 minutes. Check for doneness and adjust time as needed.

How do I know when salmon is done?

Use a thermometer for the most reliable result. Aim for 125–130°F in the center for moist, medium fish, or up to 140°F if you prefer it more done. Without a thermometer, look for opaque flesh that flakes easily with a fork.

Should I remove the skin?

You don’t have to. Skin-on fillets cook more evenly and the skin protects the flesh. After cooking, the skin will release easily if you prefer to peel it off.

Do I need to flip the salmon?

No. Cooking skin side down the whole time gives a crisp top and keeps the flesh intact. Flipping can cause sticking or breakage.

What should I serve with air fryer salmon?

Simple sides work best: steamed rice, quinoa, couscous, roasted potatoes, sautéed green beans, asparagus, or a crisp salad. A lemony yogurt sauce or a quick garlic butter is great too.

Why is my salmon sticking to the basket?

Make sure the basket is preheated and lightly oiled. Also oil the fish itself. Don’t try to move it early—let it release naturally as the crust forms.

Can I use this recipe for other fish?

Yes. Try steelhead trout, cod, or halibut. Adjust cook time for thickness, and use a thermometer to avoid overcooking.

Wrapping Up

This crispy easy air fryer salmon is the kind of recipe you keep on repeat. It’s fast, flexible, and consistently delicious, with a flaky center and a lightly crisp exterior.

Keep the ingredients on hand, switch up the seasonings when you want a change, and you’ll have a dependable weeknight dinner sorted. Add a squeeze of lemon and your favorite sides, and you’re set.