15+ Best Air Fryer Salmon Recipes You’ll Crave (Easy, Healthy & Quick)

If you’re searching for a way to cook salmon that’s fast, flavorful, and healthy, look no further than your air fryer. This kitchen appliance has revolutionized home cooking, and when it comes to salmon, it delivers perfect results every time—crispy skin, tender flesh, and minimal cleanup. Whether you’re a busy parent, a fitness enthusiast, or someone who loves experimenting with flavors, these air fryer salmon recipes will become staples in your meal rotation. We’ve tested dozens of methods, adjusted temperatures, and fine-tuned seasonings to bring you 15+ tried-and-true recipes, plus pro tips to ensure your salmon turns out juicy, flaky, and utterly delicious every single time.

Why Air Fryer Salmon Is a Game-Changer

Before diving into recipes, let’s break down why the air fryer is ideal for cooking salmon. Traditional methods like baking or pan-searing can dry out the fish if you’re not careful, but the air fryer’s circulating hot air cooks salmon quickly at high heat, locking in moisture while creating a crispy exterior. It’s also a healthier alternative to deep-frying, requiring little to no oil, and cleanup is a breeze—most recipes only need a quick wipe of the basket.

Nutritionally, salmon is a powerhouse. Rich in omega-3 fatty acids (which support heart and brain health), high-quality protein, and vitamins like B12 and D, it’s a meal that checks all the boxes for wellness. Pair that with the air fryer’s efficiency, and you’ve got a winning combination for weeknights, weekends, or even entertaining guests.

How to Prep Salmon for the Air Fryer (Key Steps for Success)

Before we get to the recipes, let’s cover the basics of preparing salmon for air frying. These steps make the difference between soggy, overcooked fish and restaurant-quality results.

1. Choose the Right Cut of Salmon

Salmon comes in several forms, but for air frying, ​salmon fillets​ (boneless, skin-on or skinless) or ​salmon steaks​ (cross-sections with bones) work best. Opt for wild-caught or sustainably farmed salmon—both are delicious, but wild-caught often has a firmer texture. Aim for fillets that are 1 to 1.5 inches thick; thinner cuts cook faster and risk drying out, while thicker cuts may need extra time.

2. Thaw Frozen Salmon Safely

If using frozen salmon, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. Never thaw at room temperature—this promotes bacterial growth. Pat the fillets dry with paper towels before seasoning; excess moisture prevents crisping.

3. Season Generously (But Simply)

Salmon has a rich, buttery flavor that pairs well with bold or subtle seasonings. Start by brushing the fillet with a neutral oil (like avocado or olive oil) to help seasonings adhere and promote browning. Then, use your favorite herbs, spices, citrus, or glazes. Avoid over-seasoning—too much salt or sugar can burn in the high heat of the air fryer.

15+ Air Fryer Salmon Recipes to Try Today

Ready to cook? Here are 15+ easy, flavorful recipes organized by cuisine and flavor profile. Each includes prep time, cook time, and simple instructions.

​1. Classic Lemon-Herb Air Fryer Salmon​

Prep Time: 5 mins | Cook Time: 10-12 mins | Servings: 2

​Ingredients:

• 2 salmon fillets (1 lb total, 1-inch thick)

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tsp dried dill (or 1 tbsp fresh, chopped)

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• Zest and juice of 1 lemon

• Salt and pepper to taste

​Instructions:

1. Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C).

2. Pat salmon dry. Brush with olive oil, then rub with dill, garlic powder, lemon zest, juice, salt, and pepper.

3. Place salmon in the air fryer basket, skin-side down if using skin-on.

4. Cook for 10-12 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) and flesh flakes easily.

5. Serve with extra lemon wedges and a side of roasted veggies.

Pro Tip: For crispier skin, cook skin-side down the entire time.

​2. Spicy Sriracha-Glazed Salmon​

Prep Time: 7 mins | Cook Time: 10 mins | Servings: 2

​Ingredients:

• 2 salmon fillets

• 1 tbsp soy sauce

• 1 tbsp sriracha

• 1 tsp honey

• 1 tsp grated ginger

• 1 clove garlic, minced

• 1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional)

​Instructions:

1. Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C).

2. In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, sriracha, honey, ginger, and garlic to make the glaze.

3. Brush salmon with half the glaze, then place in the basket.

4. Cook for 5 minutes, flip, brush with remaining glaze, and cook 5 more minutes.

5. Sprinkle with sesame seeds before serving.

Pair With: Sticky rice and steamed broccoli.

​3. Honey-Dijon Mustard Salmon​

Prep Time: 5 mins | Cook Time: 9-11 mins | Servings: 2

​Ingredients:

• 2 salmon fillets

• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard

• 1 tbsp honey

• 1 tsp olive oil

• 1 tsp poppy seeds

• Salt and pepper

​Instructions:

1. Preheat air fryer to 380°F (193°C).

2. Mix Dijon, honey, olive oil, poppy seeds, salt, and pepper. Brush over salmon.

3. Cook for 9-11 minutes, until glaze caramelizes and salmon is cooked through.

Why It Works: The tangy Dijon balances the sweetness of honey, creating a sticky, addictive coating.

​4. Garlic-Butter Salmon with Parsley​

Prep Time: 5 mins | Cook Time: 10 mins | Servings: 2

​Ingredients:

• 2 salmon fillets

• 2 tbsp melted butter

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

• Zest of ½ lemon

• Salt and pepper

​Instructions:

1. Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C).

2. Mix melted butter, garlic, parsley, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Brush over salmon.

3. Cook for 10 minutes, basting with remaining butter halfway through.

Pro Tip: For extra richness, add a slice of butter on top of each fillet before cooking.

​5. Korean BBQ Salmon​

Prep Time: 10 mins | Cook Time: 12 mins | Servings: 2-3

​Ingredients:

• 2 salmon fillets

• 3 tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste)

• 1 tbsp soy sauce

• 1 tbsp honey

• 1 tsp rice vinegar

• 1 clove garlic, grated

• 1 tsp sesame oil

​Instructions:

1. Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C).

2. Mix all ingredients (except salmon) to make the marinade. Coat salmon evenly.

3. Cook for 12 minutes, flipping halfway, until marinade chars slightly.

4. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds.

Serving Suggestion: Serve over jasmine rice with kimchi on the side.

​6. Smoked Paprika and Olive Oil Salmon​

Prep Time: 3 mins | Cook Time: 8-10 mins | Servings: 2

​Ingredients:

• 2 salmon fillets

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• ½ tsp cumin

• Salt and pepper

​Instructions:

1. Preheat air fryer to 390°F (199°C).

2. Brush salmon with olive oil, then sprinkle with paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.

3. Cook for 8-10 minutes, until paprika darkens and salmon flakes easily.

Flavor Note: Smoked paprika adds depth without needing a smoker—perfect for weeknights.

​7. Teriyaki Salmon with Pineapple​

Prep Time: 10 mins | Cook Time: 12 mins | Servings: 2-3

​Ingredients:

• 2 salmon fillets

• ¼ cup teriyaki sauce

• 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)

• 1 tsp cornstarch (mixed with 1 tbsp water)

​Instructions:

1. Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C).

2. Brush salmon with teriyaki sauce. Place pineapple chunks around the basket.

3. Cook for 6 minutes, flip salmon, brush with more teriyaki, and rearrange pineapple.

4. In a small bowl, mix cornstarch and water; brush over salmon. Cook 6 more minutes until glaze thickens.

Fun Twist: Add red bell pepper chunks to the basket for extra color and crunch.

​8. Mediterranean Salmon with Olives and Feta​

Prep Time: 10 mins | Cook Time: 11 mins | Servings: 2

​Ingredients:

• 2 salmon fillets

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• ½ cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved

• ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese

• 1 lemon, sliced

​Instructions:

1. Preheat air fryer to 380°F (193°C).

2. Brush salmon with olive oil and oregano. Top with lemon slices.

3. Cook for 5 minutes, then scatter olives around the basket. Cook 3 more minutes.

4. Sprinkle feta on top and cook 3 additional minutes until feta softens.

Pair With: Tzatziki sauce and warm pita bread.

​9. Blackened Salmon with Cajun Seasoning​

Prep Time: 5 mins | Cook Time: 10 mins | Servings: 2

​Ingredients:

• 2 salmon fillets

• 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning

• 1 tbsp olive oil

​Instructions:

1. Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C).

2. Rub salmon with olive oil, then coat evenly with Cajun seasoning.

3. Cook for 10 minutes, flipping halfway, until seasoning forms a crust.

Pro Tip: Serve with mango salsa to balance the heat.

​10. Maple-Mustard Salmon​

Prep Time: 5 mins | Cook Time: 9 mins | Servings: 2

​Ingredients:

• 2 salmon fillets

• 1 tbsp pure maple syrup

• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard

• ½ tsp cinnamon

• Pinch of cayenne (optional)

​Instructions:

1. Preheat air fryer to 390°F (199°C).

2. Mix all ingredients. Brush over salmon.

3. Cook for 9 minutes, until maple caramelizes and salmon is cooked through.

Why It Stands Out: The warm cinnamon and hint of cayenne create a cozy, autumnal flavor.

​11. Avocado-Lime Salmon​

Prep Time: 7 mins | Cook Time: 10 mins | Servings: 2

​Ingredients:

• 2 salmon fillets

• 1 ripe avocado, mashed

• Zest and juice of 1 lime

• 1 tsp chili powder

• 1 tbsp cilantro, chopped

​Instructions:

1. Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C).

2. Mix mashed avocado, lime zest/juice, chili powder, and cilantro. Set aside.

3. Season salmon with salt and pepper, then cook for 10 minutes.

4. Top with avocado-lime mixture before serving.

Serve With: Quinoa and black beans for a Southwestern-inspired meal.

​12. Rosemary-Garlic Salmon with Lemon Butter​

Prep Time: 8 mins | Cook Time: 11 mins | Servings: 2

​Ingredients:

• 2 salmon fillets

• 2 tbsp butter, softened

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 2 sprigs rosemary, chopped

• Zest of 1 lemon

• Salt and pepper

​Instructions:

1. Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C).

2. Mix butter, garlic, rosemary, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Spread over salmon.

3. Cook for 11 minutes, basting with melted butter from the pan halfway through.

Luxury Touch: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon over the salmon before serving.

​13. Peanut Butter-Ginger Salmon​

Prep Time: 10 mins | Cook Time: 12 mins | Servings: 2-3

​Ingredients:

• 2 salmon fillets

• 3 tbsp smooth peanut butter

• 1 tbsp soy sauce

• 1 tbsp honey

• 1 tsp grated ginger

• 1 clove garlic, minced

• Red pepper flakes (optional)

​Instructions:

1. Preheat air fryer to 380°F (193°C).

2. Mix all ingredients to make a sauce. Coat salmon.

3. Cook for 12 minutes, flipping halfway, until sauce thickens and salmon is done.

Pro Tip: Serve with cucumber slices to cool down the richness.

​14. Herbes de Provence Salmon​

Prep Time: 4 mins | Cook Time: 9-11 mins | Servings: 2

​Ingredients:

• 2 salmon fillets

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tsp herbes de Provence (a mix of thyme, rosemary, oregano, and lavender)

• Salt and pepper

​Instructions:

1. Preheat air fryer to 390°F (199°C).

2. Brush salmon with olive oil, then sprinkle with herbes de Provence, salt, and pepper.

3. Cook for 9-11 minutes, until herbs toast slightly and salmon is flaky.

Note: If you don’t have herbes de Provence, use equal parts dried thyme and rosemary.

​15. Chili Lime Salmon Tacos​

Prep Time: 15 mins | Cook Time: 10 mins | Servings: 4 (tacos)

​Ingredients:

• 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tbsp chili powder

• 1 lime, zested and juiced

• ½ cup cabbage slaw mix

• ¼ cup sour cream

• 8 corn tortillas

​Instructions:

1. Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C).

2. Brush salmon with olive oil, chili powder, lime zest, and juice. Cook for 10 minutes.

3. Flake salmon into chunks. Assemble tacos with slaw, sour cream, and salmon.

Crowd-Pleaser: These tacos are great for family dinners or summer barbecues.

​Bonus: Air Fryer Salmon Patties​

Prep Time: 15 mins | Cook Time: 12 mins | Servings: 4

​Ingredients:

• 1 lb canned salmon (drained, bones removed)

• ½ cup breadcrumbs

• 1 egg

• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard

• 1 tsp lemon zest

• 1 clove garlic, minced

• 1 tbsp olive oil

​Instructions:

1. Mix all ingredients (except oil) to form patties. Chill for 10 minutes.

2. Preheat air fryer to 380°F (193°C).

3. Cook patties for 12 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.

Serve With: Tartar sauce and coleslaw.

Pro Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Salmon Every Time

Now that you have recipes, here are additional tips to elevate your air fryer salmon game:

1. Control the Temperature

Most salmon recipes cook best at 380-400°F (193-200°C). Lower temperatures (375°F/190°C) work for thicker fillets (over 1.5 inches) to prevent burning the outside before the inside cooks.

2. Use Parchment Paper or Foil

For easier cleanup, line the air fryer basket with parchment paper or foil. Poke a few holes to allow air circulation. Avoid non-stick sprays—they can burn and create a bitter taste.

3. Don’t Overcrowd the Basket

Leave space between fillets so hot air can circulate. Overcrowding leads to steaming instead of crisping. Cook in batches if needed.

4. Check Doneness with a Fork

The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C). Alternatively, insert a fork into the thickest part—if it flakes easily, the salmon is done.

5. Rest Before Serving

Let salmon rest for 2-3 minutes after cooking. This allows juices to redistribute, keeping the flesh moist.

Common Questions About Air Fryer Salmon

Q: Can I cook frozen salmon in the air fryer?

A: Yes, but thaw it first in the refrigerator overnight. Pat it dry thoroughly to ensure crispiness. Cook frozen salmon at 375°F (193°C) for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway.

Q: Why is my salmon dry?

A: Overcooking is the main culprit. Stick to the recommended times and use a meat thermometer. Also, avoid using too much heat—400°F (200°C) is usually sufficient.

Q: Can I reheat leftover salmon in the air fryer?

A: Absolutely. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (177°C), place salmon in the basket, and cook for 3-4 minutes. This revives crispiness without drying it out.

Final Thoughts: Why You’ll Love Air Fryer Salmon

Air fryer salmon is more than just a quick meal—it’s a gateway to healthy, flavorful cooking. With minimal effort, you can create restaurant-quality dishes that impress family and friends. Whether you prefer zesty citrus, bold spices, or creamy glazes, there’s an air fryer salmon recipe here for every taste.

So fire up your air fryer, grab your favorite seasonings, and get cooking. Your taste buds (and your body) will thank you.