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Close-up of a tender, flaky Air Fryer Salmon fillet with crispy skin, glistening with fresh lemon juice.

Easy Air Fryer Salmon Recipe

This Air Fryer Salmon recipe is a game-changer, promising perfectly flaky, tender fish with minimal effort and cleanup. You're just minutes away from a healthy and satisfying meal that will quickly become a weeknight favorite for you and your family. Say goodbye to guesswork and hello to consistently amazing results every single time.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 17 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 fillets Salmon 6-ounce each, about 1 to 1.5 inches thick; skin-on or skin-off
  • 1 tablespoon Olive oil or avocado oil, grapeseed oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon Flaky sea salt or to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon Black pepper freshly ground, or to taste
  • 2 wedges Lemon fresh, for serving
  • 1/2 teaspoon Garlic powder optional, for extra depth of flavor
  • 1/2 teaspoon Onion powder optional, for extra depth of flavor
  • 1/2 teaspoon Paprika optional, for extra depth of flavor

Method
 

  1. Preheat Your Air Fryer: Begin by preheating your air fryer to 380°F (195°C) for about 3 to 5 minutes. This crucial step ensures the air fryer is hot enough to cook the salmon quickly and evenly, preventing it from sticking to the basket and promoting a nice sear.
  2. Prepare the Salmon: Gently pat the salmon fillets completely dry with paper towels on all sides. Removing excess moisture is essential for achieving that coveted crispy skin and prevents steaming.
  3. Season Generously: Brush both sides of each salmon fillet with your chosen olive oil, ensuring a light, even coating. Then, season them generously with flaky sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. Don't be shy with the seasoning; it enhances the natural flavors of the Air Fryer Salmon.
  4. Place in Air Fryer: Carefully arrange the salmon fillets in a single layer inside the air fryer basket or on the tray. If your fillets have skin, place them skin-side down. It’s very important not to overcrowd the basket; leave enough space between fillets for proper air circulation. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure optimal results.
  5. Air Fry: Cook the salmon for 10 to 14 minutes, depending entirely on the thickness of your fillets and your desired level of doneness. A standard 1-inch thick fillet typically takes about 12 minutes to cook through. Thicker pieces will require a few extra minutes.
  6. Check for Doneness: The salmon is perfectly ready when it easily flakes with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) when measured at its thickest part. The flesh should appear opaque throughout, indicating it's cooked safely.
  7. Rest and Serve: Carefully remove the cooked salmon from the air fryer using a spatula to avoid breaking the delicate fillets. Let it rest for just a minute or two on a plate. This brief resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring the fish remains moist and tender.
  8. Garnish: Squeeze fresh lemon juice generously over the top of each salmon fillet. This burst of citrus adds a bright, fresh counterpoint to the rich fish. Serve immediately with your favorite sides and enjoy your perfectly cooked Air Fryer Salmon.

Notes

For the best results: Always preheat your air fryer. Do not overcrowd the basket; cook in batches if needed. Pat the salmon completely dry with paper towels before oiling and seasoning for crispy skin. Watch your cooking time carefully, as salmon can dry out quickly. Use a reliable meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for optimal doneness. For storing leftovers, cool completely, then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the air fryer at 300°F (150°C) for a few minutes until warmed through, or enjoy cold on a salad.