Air Fryer Salmon (10 Minutes, Crispy & Juicy)
This easy air fryer salmon recipe makes tender, flaky salmon with a flavorful seasoned crust. With just 5 minutes of prep and about 10 minutes of cooking, it’s a quick dinner for busy weeknights
Equipment
- Air fryer
- Small mixing bowl
- Measuring Spoons
- Instant-read thermometer
- Paper towels
Ingredients
For the Salmon4 salmon fillets, about 6 oz each, skin-on preferred2 tablespoons olive oilSalt, to tasteBlack pepper, to tasteFor the Seasoned Mayo Coating2 tablespoons mayonnaise1 teaspoon garlic powder1 teaspoon smoked paprika½ teaspoon ground corianderPinch of cayenne pepper, optionalFor Serving1 lemon, cut into wedgesFresh parsley or dill, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer.
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3–5 minutes.
- Dry the salmon.
- Pat the salmon fillets thoroughly dry with paper towels. Season lightly with salt and black pepper.
- Make the coating.
- In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, garlic powder, smoked paprika, coriander, and optional cayenne.
- Season the salmon.
- Brush the salmon lightly with olive oil. Spread a thin layer of the seasoned mayonnaise mixture over the top of each fillet.
- Air fry.
- Place the salmon in the air fryer basket skin-side down, leaving space between the fillets. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for about 7–10 minutes, depending on thickness and your air fryer.
- Check for doneness.
- Check the thickest part of the salmon with an instant-read thermometer. For food-safety guidance, cook fish to 145°F (63°C).
- Rest and serve.
- Let the salmon rest for about 2 minutes. Finish with fresh lemon juice and chopped parsley or dill before serving.
Notes
Fillet thickness: Thick salmon fillets may require an additional 1–2 minutes.
Don't overcrowd: Leave space between the pieces so hot air can circulate.
Frozen salmon: For the most predictable texture and cooking time, thaw the salmon before preparing this recipe.
Mayonnaise substitute: Greek yogurt or Dijon mustard can be used instead, but the finished texture and flavor will differ.
Skin: Keep the salmon skin-side down during cooking; there is no need to flip it.
Air fryers vary: Start checking the salmon early, especially if your fillets are thin.