Crispy Easy Air Fryer Salmon Recipe
Easy air fryer salmon recipe that’s tender, flaky, and full of flavor. A quick, healthy dinner you can make perfectly in minutes.
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each), skin-on or skinless
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (or avocado oil)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (or sweet paprika)
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 1 lemon, cut into wedges (for serving)
- Optional garnish: chopped fresh parsley or dill
Instructions
- 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.
