If you're looking for a quick, healthy dinner that still feels a little special, this air fryer salmon is about to become your new go-to. With a sweet and smoky spice rub and just 9 minutes of cooking time, you'll have restaurant-quality salmon on the table faster than you can set the table. This is one of those easy salmon recipes air fryer fans keep coming back to because it's nearly impossible to mess up!
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Salmon is definitely my favorite type of fish, and my go-to salmon dinners are Salmon Bites with Bang Bang Sauce (my husband requests this weekly!) and Sheet Pan Salmon which is great for easy clean up!
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Why You'll Love This Air Fryer Salmon Recipe!
This air fryer salmon has quickly become one of my favorite weeknight dinners, and once you try it, I have a feeling it'll become one of yours too. The sweet and smoky spice rub gives the salmon the most gorgeous golden crust, while the inside stays perfectly flaky and tender. Here's why this recipe is such a keeper:
- It's fast. From fridge to table in about 15 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Minimal cleanup. No skillet, no oven pans, just your air fryer basket.
- Perfectly flaky every time. The air fryer gives you crispy edges and a tender, flaky center without any guesswork.
- Simple pantry ingredients. No fancy marinade required, just a handful of spices that you probably already have on hand.
- Naturally healthy. This salmon in an air fryer recipe is high in protein and cooks with no added oil.
Equipment Needed
- Air fryer
- Small mixing bowl (for the spice rub)
- Paper towels (for patting the salmon dry)
- Tongs or a spatula (for removing the salmon)
- air fryer liners (for easier cleanup)
Key Ingredients
Salmon fillets: I like to use 4-6 ounce fillets so they cook evenly and stay nice and flaky.
Brown sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness and helps the rub caramelize into a beautiful golden crust.
Smoked paprika: Brings that deep, smoky flavor without needing a grill.
Paprika: Rounds out the smoked paprika with a milder, slightly sweet flavor.
Onion powder: Adds savory depth to balance the brown sugar's sweetness.
Cayenne: (optional): Just a pinch for a little kick of heat. Feel free to leave this out if you prefer a milder rub.
Salt and pepper: Simple seasonings that bring all the other flavors together.
Step-By-Step Instructions
Use paper towels to pat each salmon fillet completely dry. This helps the rub stick and gives a great, crunchy, caramelized texture.
Mix the spice rub. In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, smoked paprika, paprika, onion powder, cayenne ( if using), salt, and pepper.
Season the salmon. Spread the spice rub evenly over the top of each salmon fillet, pressing gently so it adheres.
Air fry in batches. Working two fillets at a time, place the salmon in the air fryer basket and cook at 400℉ for 7-9 minutes, depending on the thickness of your fillets. Salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145℉.
Repeat. Cook the remaining two fillets the same way, then serve warm.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve over a bed of rice (this cilantro lime rice goes with everything) or quinoa for a filling meal.
- Pair with roasted vegetables or a simple side salad.
- Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top just before serving.
Make Ahead
This air fryer salmon is a great option for meal prep and can be made ahead for easy lunches throughout the week. Cook the salmon as directed and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Enjoy it cold over salads, in grain bowls, or gently reheat it before serving. For the best texture, avoid overheating the salmon as it can dry out.
You can also prepare your favorite sides ahead of time, like cilantro lime rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad, to quickly assemble healthy lunches all week long.
Storage
Store any leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in the air fryer at 350℉ for 3-4 minutes, or until heated through, to help maintain that crispy texture.
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Air Fryer Salmon
Ingredients
- 4 4-6 ounce salmon fillets
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- ⅛ teaspoon cayenne (optional)
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
Instructions
- Use paper towels to pat each salmon fillet completely dry. This helps the rub stick and gives a great crunchy caramelized texture.
- Mix the spice rub. In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, smoked paprika, paprika, onion powder, cayenne ( if using), salt, and pepper.
- Season the salmon. Spread the spice rub evenly over the top of each salmon fillet, pressing gently so it adheres.
- Air fry in batches. Working two filets at a time, place the salmon in the air fryer basket and cook at 400℉ for 7-9 minutes, depending on the thickness of your fillets. Salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145F. For easier cleanup consider getting air fryer liners. Because of the brown sugar it will help minimize the stuck on mess in the bottom.
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