Air Fryer Salmon Recipe

Air Fryer Salmon is the kind of recipe that makes you wonder why you’d ever cook salmon any other way. Each bite is incredibly tender, perfectly juicy, and laced with a beautifully sticky-sweet honey garlic glaze that comes together in minutes. This dish brings together the pure magic that is quick weeknight cooking and restaurant-quality flavor, all thanks to the air fryer. If you love meals that are healthy, fuss-free, and guaranteed to wow anyone at your table, this is about to become your new go-to salmon recipe.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredient list for Air Fryer Salmon is refreshingly simple, but each one adds an essential punch—you really can taste every element in the finished dish. They’re pantry-friendly, bold with flavor, and together create an irresistible glaze that takes this salmon to the next level.

• Salmon Filets: Choose fresh, skinless filets for the juiciest results; 6-8 ounces each is ideal for even cooking.
• Honey: Provides a glossy, caramelized sweetness that balances the salty and savory notes.
• Soy Sauce (or Tamari): Delivers deep umami flavor; substitute tamari if you prefer gluten free.
• Garlic (minced or powder): Fresh minced garlic gives a pop of aromatic punch, but garlic powder is a quick, tasty swap.
• Kosher Salt and Fresh Ground Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning—don’t skip this simple step so the flavors shine.

How to Make Air Fryer Salmon

Step 1: Prepare the Honey Garlic Glaze

Whisk together your honey, soy sauce (or tamari), and minced garlic or garlic powder in a small bowl. This combination is the secret sauce—literally!—that soaks into every flake of the salmon and ensures each bite is cloaked in flavor. Set this aside while you get the salmon ready.

Step 2: Season the Salmon

Pat the salmon filets completely dry with paper towels. This little extra step helps the skin stay crispy (if your filets are skin-on) and prevents too much moisture, so the glaze sticks better. Next, season liberally all over with kosher salt and fresh ground black pepper for a foundation of flavor.

Step 3: Preheat and Prep the Air Fryer

Line your air fryer basket with a piece of foil—this makes for the easiest cleanup later. Then give your air fryer a quick 3-minute preheat at 400 degrees. A properly heated air fryer is the key to that luscious, just-cooked-through finish on your salmon filets.

Step 4: Glaze and Cook the Salmon

Lay the seasoned salmon filets in the foil-lined basket and generously pour the honey garlic glaze over them. If you’re using minced garlic, try to tuck it around the fish rather than on top—this keeps it from burning in the blast of hot air. Close the air fryer and cook for 4 to 8 minutes, checking periodically. The cooking time will depend on your air fryer model and the thickness of your salmon; what you want is salmon that flakes easily and looks juicy, not dry.

Step 5: Serve with Extra Glaze

Once your Air Fryer Salmon is cooked, carefully lift the filets from the basket using a thin spatula. Don’t forget the extra glaze pooled in the foil; it’s liquid gold! Spoon it right over the salmon for an extra hit of flavor and serve immediately for the freshest, flakiest results.

How to Serve Air Fryer Salmon

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or cilantro adds a bright green pop and a hint of freshness. For extra flavor and crunch, scatter on some toasted sesame seeds or thinly sliced scallions just before serving—these little touches instantly make Air Fryer Salmon look and taste even more gourmet.

Side Dishes

Air Fryer Salmon is a star alongside steamed jasmine rice, fluffy quinoa, or roasted veggies. Try it with garlicky green beans, a crisp cucumber salad, or even creamy mashed potatoes to soak up all that lovely glaze. This recipe works with sides as simple or as sophisticated as you like—just let your mood and pantry lead the way.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn Air Fryer Salmon into rice bowls with pickled veggies and a drizzle of spicy mayo, or flake it into a leafy green salad for a light lunch. For a fresh spin, tuck it into tortillas for next-level salmon tacos, topped with avocado and red cabbage. The possibilities are endless and wonderfully delicious.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftover Air Fryer Salmon, let it cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. Keep it in the fridge for up to 2 days—the flavors are even more pronounced the next day, making lunch a treat.

Freezing

You can freeze portions of cooked Air Fryer Salmon if needed. Wrap each piece in plastic wrap or foil and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge for the best texture.

Reheating

Reheat salmon gently to keep it moist: pop it back into the air fryer at 325 degrees for just a few minutes or warm in a covered skillet with a splash of water. Drizzle over any saved glaze after reheating to boost flavor and ensure a melt-in-your-mouth finish.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon fillets for Air Fryer Salmon?

Absolutely! Thaw them completely and pat dry before seasoning and glazing to get the best texture and flavor. Cooking time might be a minute or two longer, so check for doneness.

How do I prevent the salmon from sticking to the foil in the air fryer?

A quick brush of oil or a spritz of nonstick spray on the foil does wonders for preventing any sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.

Can I double the honey garlic glaze for extra sauce?

Yes, and it’s a great idea if you love saucy salmon! Just double the honey, soy sauce, and garlic; simmer any leftover glaze on the stove for a minute or two before serving for an extra luxurious drizzle.

How do I know when Air Fryer Salmon is done?

The salmon should flake easily with a fork and be opaque throughout, but still very moist. If you have a food thermometer, check for an internal temperature of 125 to 130 degrees for medium-rare.

What’s the best type of salmon to use for this recipe?

Both wild-caught and farmed salmon work beautifully here. Wild-caught tends to be leaner and cooks a bit faster; farmed salmon is fattier and extra tender. Just aim for similarly sized filets for even cooking.

Final Thoughts

If you haven’t tried making Air Fryer Salmon yet, now’s your moment! It’s the kind of meal that feels special enough for guests but is easy and satisfying enough for a weeknight. I really think this will become one of your favorite ways to cook and eat salmon—all with the magic of your air fryer.

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