This air fryer salmon fillet is one of my favorite weeknight meals when I need something quick, healthy, and filled with protein. The air fryer gives the salmon a golden outside, and the inside is moist, tender, and flaky. Best of all, this is a simple recipe that doesn't need complicated ingredients or long cooking times.
If you're looking for an easy salmon fillet recipe that tastes restaurant-quality but is ready to eat in under 30 minutes, this one is definitely one of my favorite things to make! As a healthy side, why not try my Air Fryer Carrot Chips Recipe?
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Video Tutorial
Try This Air Fryer Salmon Fillet
I love making this easy air fryer salmon recipe when I want a high protein dinner that fills me up, but is still light. The seasoning blend brings out the natural flavor of the salmon, and the air fryer makes them moist without being soggy, with a slightly crispy skin.
Whether you're cooking for yourself or serving guests, this is one of those air fryer recipes that is a winner each time, and has become my new favorite way to cook salmon.
Why You'll Love It
- Quick dinner: I make this when I need a healthy dinner on the table in less than 30 minutes with no fuss.
- High protein: Salmon is naturally full of protein, making it a healthy option for when you are running around.
- Healthy choice: This is a healthy salmon fillet recipe that uses very little oil.
- Air fryer convenience: The air fryer cooks the fish quickly without burning it or leaving it soggy.
- Perfect texture: You get tender and flaky salmon with a lightly crisp exterior.
- Customizable: You can add anything you like, from Dijon mustard, Cajun seasoning, Italian seasoning, soy sauce, to a simple mayo sauce. The sky is the limit!
Ingredients
- Salmon fillet: I prefer skin-on salmon for this recipe because it helps protect the fish while cooking and adds extra flavor.
- Salt: This brings out the natural flavor of the salmon, as well as its richness.
- Sugar: A small amount draws out extra moisture and gives you the perfect end result. I prefer white over brown sugar here, because the brown sugar tends to be slightly sweeter.
- Black pepper: I like adding pepper because it gives a mild kick and works with the buttery flavor of the salmon.
How to Make Air Fryer Salmon Fillet
1. Rinse the salmon fillet and pat it dry with paper towels. Sprinkle a mixture of salt and sugar using a teaspoon evenly over it, and let it rest for 20 minutes. This draws out the moisture and gives a better result.
2. Let them marinade for 20 minutes and then thoroughly rinse the salmon fillet and pat it dry with paper towels.
Tip: You can add additional seasoning here by spritzing a tiny bit of olive oil on the fish and patting the salmon with the spices.
3. Preheat the air fryer to 400ºF (200ºC). You can line the air fryer basket with parchment paper before placing the salmon inside.
4. Place the salmon fillet on the air fryer rack, making sure that the salmon skin side is facing down.
5. Cook the salmon for 8-10 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillet and your preferred level of doneness.
6. Place the cooked salmon fillet on a serving plate. Season it with salt and pepper to taste or drizzle it with your favorite sauce. Garnish it with fresh herbs and squeeze some lemon juice over it if you like. Enjoy your meal!
Cooking Tips
- Pat the salmon dry thoroughly for the best texture.
- Don't skip the salt and sugar resting step. I find it improves both the flavor and texture.
- Avoid overcooking, as salmon can dry out quickly.
- Use a thermometer if you're unsure. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
- Skin-on salmon tends to stay juicier during cooking.
What Can You Serve With This?
- Steamed rice
- Quinoa
- Roasted asparagus
- Broccoli
- Side salad
- Chips
- Sweet potatoes
- Lemon wedges
- Veggies
FAQs
Yes. I do recommend thawing it completely and patting it dry before cooking.
I check that it flakes easily with a fork or reaches 145°F (63°C) internally.
Absolutely. Garlic powder, paprika, lemon pepper, or your favorite seafood seasoning all work well.
Recipe
Air Fryer Salmon Fillet
Equipment
- Air Fryer
- Paper towels
- Tongs
- Fork or internal thermometer
- Serving plate
Ingredients
- 1 salmon fillet skin on
- pinch sugar
- pinch salt
- pinch freshly ground pepper
- (optional) additional spices or sauces of your choice
Instructions
- Rinse the salmon fillet and pat it dry with paper towels. Sprinkle a mixture of salt and sugar evenly over it, and let it rest for 20 minutes. This will draw out moisture from the surface of the fish, resulting in a denser texture and intensifying the flavor.
- After 20 minutes pass, thoroughly rinse the salmon fillet and pat it dry with paper towels.
- Preheat the air fryer to 400ºF (200ºC).
- Place the salmon fillet on the air fryer rack, ensuring that the skin side is facing down.
- Cook the salmon for 8-10 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillet and your preferred level of doneness.
- Transfer the cooked salmon fillet to a serving plate. Season it with salt and pepper to taste or drizzle it with your favorite sauce. Optionally, garnish it with fresh herbs and squeeze some lemon juice over it.
Notes
Cooking Time and Temperature
Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes.Taste & Texture
This air fryer salmon fillet has a lightly crisp exterior with a moist, flaky, and tender center. The flavor is rich, buttery, and incredibly satisfying.Storage, Freezing & Reheating
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Freezer: Freeze cooked salmon for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 2-3 minutes until warmed through.
Serving Recommendations
I love serving this high protein dinner with roasted vegetables and rice for a complete meal. It also works beautifully on top of salads or grain bowls.Recipe Variations and Substitutions
-
- Salmon: You can substitute trout, cod, or other firm fish fillets.
- Seasoning: Try garlic powder, smoked paprika, lemon pepper, or fresh herbs.
- Sauce: Lemon butter sauce, dill sauce, or a simple squeeze of lemon all work wonderfully.
- Spice Level: Add cayenne pepper or chili flakes for extra heat.
- Gluten-free: Switch out the traditional breadcrumbs for gluten-free versions.
Proper Storage Tips
- Cool completely before storing.
- Keep refrigerated in an airtight container.
- Reheat gently to avoid drying out the fish.
- Store leftovers within two hours of cooking.
Pro Tips
- Use skin-on salmon for the juiciest results.
- Let the salmon rest with salt and sugar for the best texture.
- Always preheat the air fryer.
- Check doneness early if using a thinner fillet.
- Finish with fresh lemon juice right before serving for extra flavor.
Video
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