Air Fryer Salmon Recipe

Three cooked salmon fillets in an air fryer basket after cooking.

5 from 8 votes

This easy air fryer salmon recipe is made with tender salmon fillets and a simple homemade seasoning blend, then cooked until flaky, flavorful, and perfectly moist. Ready in less than 15 minutes, it is a quick and healthy dinner for busy weeknights.

Prep Time5

Cook Time9

Total Time14

Servings: servings

Calories: 310kcal

Chef: Jessica Randhawa

Ingredients

▢ 4 salmon fillets - approx. 6 ounces each
▢ 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Salmon Seasoning

Instructions

Preheat: Preheat the air fryer to 400°F, if your air fryer requires preheating.
Prepare the seasoning: In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, paprika, dried thyme, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
Prepare the salmon fillets: Pat the salmon dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Brush each fillet with olive oil, then season generously on the top and sides with the prepared spice mixture (it's ok if you don't use it all).
Arrange the salmon in the air fryer basket: Place the seasoned salmon fillets in the air fryer basket in a single layer, skin-side down, leaving a little space between each piece so the hot air can circulate evenly.
Cook until flaky and fully cooked: Air fry for 7 to 9 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F at the thickest part.
Serve and enjoy. Carefully remove the cooked salmon from the air fryer and transfer it to a plate. Serve immediately with fresh lemon wedges and chopped parsley, if desired.

Notes

Salmon: This recipe works with fresh or fully thawed frozen salmon fillets. For best results, thaw frozen salmon before cooking, as frozen fillets release extra moisture and may cook unevenly.
Brown sugar: The brown sugar helps balance the savory spices and encourages light caramelization. For a less sweet version, reduce the amount or leave it out entirely.
Do not overcrowd: Cook the salmon in a single layer and work in batches if needed. Overcrowding can prevent even cooking.
Cooking time: Air fryer salmon usually cooks in 7 to 9 minutes at 400°F, but the exact time will depend on the thickness of the fillets and the style of air fryer.
How to tell when it is done: The salmon should flake easily with a fork and reach 145°F at the thickest part when checked with a digital thermometer.
To store: Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat: Reheat gently in the microwave, a 300°F oven, or the air fryer for a few minutes, just until warmed through, to help prevent the salmon from drying out.

Nutrition

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