Some evenings, the last thing I want is to spend ages in the kitchen. That’s when this air fryer salmon fillets recipe becomes my go-to. It’s fast, fuss-free, and somehow manages to feel like a little celebration on the plate.
One night last week, I remember the smell of the salmon cooking in the air fryer filling the kitchen—warm, slightly smoky with a hint of paprika. The skin crisped up beautifully, crackling gently as I took it out. The first bite was tender and flaky, melting just right with a squeeze of fresh lemon. It was one of those moments where simple ingredients come together so perfectly that you wish you had doubled the recipe. I didn’t have to wait long; before I knew it, dinner was ready, and the whole kitchen felt cozy and inviting.
- Ready in under 20 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Crispy skin with tender, flaky salmon inside.
- Minimal hands-on time means less mess and stress.
- Healthy and packed with flavor without complicated steps.
- Pairs beautifully with fresh lemon wedges for a burst of brightness.
If you’re worried about cooking salmon just right, the air fryer really takes the guesswork out of it. It cooks evenly and locks in moisture, so you get that perfect texture every time. Plus, clean-up is a breeze compared to pan-frying or baking.
PrintAir Fryer Salmon Fillets
A quick and easy recipe for perfectly cooked salmon fillets using an air fryer. Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, this healthy dish is ready in under 20 minutes.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 17 minutes
- Yield: 2
Ingredients
2 salmon fillets, skin on, about 6 ounces each
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 lemon, cut into wedges
Instructions
Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes.
Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels.
Brush both sides of each salmon fillet with olive oil.
In a small bowl, mix together garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of the salmon fillets.
Place the salmon fillets skin-side down in the air fryer basket, making sure they do not overlap.
Cook the salmon in the air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Carefully remove the salmon fillets from the air fryer using a spatula.
Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.
FAQ
Can I cook frozen salmon fillets in the air fryer?
It’s best to thaw the salmon first for even cooking and the best texture.
How do I know when the salmon is done?
The salmon should flake easily with a fork and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Can I use other seasonings?
Absolutely. This recipe is a great base, so feel free to experiment with herbs and spices you love.
How do I store leftovers?
Store cooked salmon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Reheat gently in the air fryer for best results.
Give this recipe a try and bring a little ease and delight to your dinner table tonight.