Perfectly cooked air fryer recipes salmon with crispy skin, served with roasted vegetables

17 Air Fryer Recipes Salmon Fans Can’t Stop Making

ByWilliam R. Fleck
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Hey there, fellow foodies! Looking for amazing air fryer recipes salmon lovers will obsess over? You’ve come to the right place! These air fryer recipes salmon enthusiasts can’t stop making have completely changed my dinner game, and I’m betting they’ll do the same for you!

Air fryer recipes salmon dishes are my go-to when I need something quick, healthy, and downright delicious. The air fryer works its magic by creating that perfect crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender and juicy. These air fryer recipes salmon fans adore are like having restaurant-quality meals right at home in minutes!

Whether you’re a salmon enthusiast looking to switch things up or an air fryer newbie searching for foolproof recipes, I’ve got you covered with these 17 mouthwatering air fryer recipes salmon lovers in my family (and my dedicated readers) simply cannot stop making.

Why Air Fryer Recipes Salmon Lovers Rave About Are Total Game-Changers

Before diving into these air fryer recipes salmon fans can’t get enough of, let’s talk about why cooking salmon in an air fryer is absolutely revolutionary:

  • Quick cooking time – most air fryer recipes salmon dishes take just 7-12 minutes!
  • Perfectly cooked every time – say goodbye to dry, overcooked salmon
  • Healthier option – these air fryer recipes salmon lovers prefer use minimal oil compared to pan-frying
  • No fishy smell lingering in your home
  • Crispy exterior, juicy interior – the perfect texture combination that makes air fryer recipes salmon fans crave
  • Versatile – air fryer recipes salmon works with both fresh and frozen fillets

Now, let’s dive into these amazing air fryer recipes for salmon that will make your taste buds dance!

Classic Air Fryer Recipes Salmon Enthusiasts Love

1. Simple Lemon Garlic Air Fryer Salmon

Flaky lemon garlic air fryer recipes salmon with fresh herbs and bright citrus
“This 10-minute wonder will become your weeknight superhero! Bright lemon + garlic = dinner magic!”

This is my go-to air fryer recipes salmon dish when I want something quick and delicious. The bright lemon flavor pairs perfectly with the rich salmon.

Ingredients:

  • 2 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 lemon (juice and zest)
  • 1 teaspoon dried dill
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Mix olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, zest, and seasonings in a bowl.
  2. Brush mixture onto salmon fillets.
  3. Place in air fryer at 380°F for 8-10 minutes.
  4. Enjoy your perfectly cooked air fryer salmon!

This recipe is so simple yet so flavorful – it’s no wonder it’s one of the most popular air fryer recipes for salmon!

2. Honey Soy Glazed Air Fryer Salmon

Sticky honey soy glazed air fryer recipes salmon with green onions and sesame seeds
“That glaze though! Sticky, sweet & savory perfection in every bite. No sauce left behind!”

Sweet, savory, and oh-so-sticky, this Asian-inspired air fryer salmon will become a regular in your dinner rotation.

Ingredients:

  • 2 salmon fillets
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon grated ginger
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • Green onions for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, ginger, and garlic.
  2. Marinate salmon for 15-30 minutes.
  3. Cook in air fryer at 390°F for 7-9 minutes.
  4. Brush with additional glaze and garnish with green onions.

The air fryer caramelizes the honey soy glaze perfectly, creating a delicious crust on the salmon!

3. Cajun Spiced Air Fryer Salmon

Spicy Cajun crusted air fryer recipes salmon with a perfect sear and bold flavors
“Bringing the heat! This Cajun beauty packs all the spice with none of the guilt. Weekend worthy, weeknight easy!”

For those who like a bit of heat, this Cajun air fryer salmon recipe delivers big flavor with minimal effort.

Ingredients:

  • 2 salmon fillets
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon brown sugar
  • Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions:

  1. Mix Cajun seasoning with brown sugar.
  2. Brush salmon with olive oil and rub with spice mixture.
  3. Air fry at 390°F for 8-10 minutes.
  4. Serve with lemon wedges.

The brown sugar helps balance the heat and creates amazing caramelization in the air fryer!

International-Inspired Air Fryer Salmon Recipes

4. Mediterranean Air Fryer Salmon

Mediterranean inspired air fryer recipes salmon topped with olives, tomatoes and feta cheese
“Vacation on a plate! This Mediterranean masterpiece transports your taste buds straight to the Greek islands”

Transport yourself to the Mediterranean coast with this herb and olive-topped air fryer salmon recipe.

Ingredients:

  • 2 salmon fillets
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 2 tablespoons chopped Kalamata olives
  • 2 tablespoons diced tomatoes
  • 2 tablespoons crumbled feta cheese
  • Fresh lemon juice

Instructions:

  1. Season salmon with olive oil, oregano, and basil.
  2. Air fry at 380°F for 5 minutes.
  3. Top with olives and tomatoes, then air fry 3-4 more minutes.
  4. Sprinkle with feta and a squeeze of lemon before serving.

This Mediterranean-inspired salmon is perfect for summer dinners and pairs beautifully with a simple Greek salad!

5. Thai Coconut Curry Air Fryer Salmon

Thai coconut curry air fryer recipes salmon with vibrant herbs and creamy sauce
“Thai-m to elevate your dinner game! This creamy curry salmon brings restaurant flavors right to your kitchen table”

If you’re craving something exotic, this Thai-inspired air fryer recipe for salmon will hit the spot.

Ingredients:

  • 2 salmon fillets
  • 2 tablespoons Thai red curry paste
  • 1/4 cup coconut milk
  • 1 teaspoon fish sauce
  • 1 teaspoon brown sugar
  • Fresh cilantro and lime for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Mix curry paste, coconut milk, fish sauce, and brown sugar.
  2. Coat salmon fillets with mixture.
  3. Air fry at 380°F for 8-10 minutes.
  4. Garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges.

This recipe combines two of my favorite things – air fryer recipes chicken wings have nothing on this flavor explosion!

6. Teriyaki Air Fryer Salmon

This Japanese-inspired air fryer salmon is sweet, savory, and impossibly easy to make.

Ingredients:

  • 2 salmon fillets
  • 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 teaspoon grated ginger
  • Sesame seeds and sliced green onions for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Mix teriyaki sauce, honey, and ginger.
  2. Marinate salmon for 15-30 minutes.
  3. Air fry at 380°F for 8-10 minutes.
  4. Brush with remaining sauce and garnish with sesame seeds and green onions.

The air fryer helps the teriyaki sauce caramelize beautifully on the salmon!

Family-Friendly Air Fryer Salmon Recipes

7. Crispy Panko Crusted Air Fryer Salmon

Even salmon skeptics will love this crispy, crunchy air fryer salmon recipe that tastes like a healthier version of fried fish.

Ingredients:

  • 2 salmon fillets
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley
  • Cooking spray

Instructions:

  1. Mix mayonnaise and Dijon, then coat salmon.
  2. Combine panko, Parmesan, and parsley in a shallow dish.
  3. Press salmon into breadcrumb mixture.
  4. Spray with cooking spray and air fry at 390°F for 10-12 minutes.

This crispy air fryer salmon is perfect for kids and adults alike! It’s one of those beginner recipes that’s virtually impossible to mess up.

8. Honey Mustard Air Fryer Salmon

Sweet, tangy, and always a crowd-pleaser, this honey mustard air fryer salmon is perfect for family dinner.

Ingredients:

  • 2 salmon fillets
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon whole grain mustard
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Mix honey, both mustards, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  2. Coat salmon fillets generously with mixture.
  3. Air fry at 380°F for 8-10 minutes.

The honey caramelizes beautifully in the air fryer, creating a delicious glaze on the salmon!

9. BBQ Air Fryer Salmon

Who knew BBQ sauce and salmon would be such a winning combo? This air fryer recipe for salmon has converted many salmon skeptics!

Ingredients:

  • 2 salmon fillets
  • 1/4 cup your favorite BBQ sauce
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

Instructions:

  1. Mix BBQ sauce with spices.
  2. Coat salmon fillets with BBQ mixture.
  3. Air fry at 380°F for 8-10 minutes.
  4. Brush with additional BBQ sauce before serving.

The air fryer helps the BBQ sauce caramelize without burning, creating a sticky, delicious glaze!

Quick & Easy Air Fryer Salmon Recipes

10. 5-Ingredient Air Fryer Salmon

When you need dinner in a flash, this simple air fryer salmon recipe comes to the rescue with just five ingredients!

Ingredients:

  • 2 salmon fillets
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon Everything Bagel seasoning
  • Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions:

  1. Mix olive oil and maple syrup.
  2. Brush onto salmon and sprinkle with Everything Bagel seasoning.
  3. Air fry at 390°F for 7-9 minutes.
  4. Serve with lemon wedges.

This might be the easiest air fryer recipe for salmon ever, and it’s packed with flavor!

11. Frozen Salmon in the Air Fryer

Forgot to defrost? No problem! This air fryer salmon recipe starts with frozen fillets for the ultimate convenience.

Ingredients:

  • 2 frozen salmon fillets
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried herbs (your choice)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Lemon wedges

Instructions:

  1. Brush frozen salmon with olive oil.
  2. Season with garlic powder, herbs, salt, and pepper.
  3. Air fry at 390°F for 7 minutes.
  4. Flip and cook for 5-7 more minutes until done.

This is one of my favorite frozen food made easy hacks – from freezer to table in 15 minutes!

12. Lemon Pepper Air Fryer Salmon

Sometimes the simplest air fryer recipes for salmon are the best. This lemon pepper version is a weeknight staple.

Ingredients:

  • 2 salmon fillets
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 teaspoons lemon pepper seasoning
  • Fresh lemon slices

Instructions:

  1. Brush salmon with olive oil.
  2. Sprinkle generously with lemon pepper seasoning.
  3. Air fry at 380°F for 8-10 minutes.
  4. Serve with fresh lemon slices.

The air fryer makes the exterior slightly crispy while keeping the inside moist and flaky!

Gourmet Air Fryer Salmon Recipes

13. Maple Pecan Crusted Air Fryer Salmon

Impress dinner guests with this restaurant-worthy air fryer salmon recipe that looks and tastes gourmet.

Ingredients:

  • 2 salmon fillets
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 3 tablespoons maple syrup
  • 1/3 cup finely chopped pecans
  • 2 tablespoons panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Mix mustard and 1 tablespoon maple syrup, then brush onto salmon.
  2. Combine pecans, panko, thyme, salt, and pepper.
  3. Press mixture onto salmon.
  4. Air fry at 370°F for 10-12 minutes.
  5. Drizzle with remaining maple syrup before serving.

The air fryer makes the pecan crust perfectly crispy without burning the nuts!

14. Herb Butter Stuffed Air Fryer Salmon

This air fryer salmon recipe features a pocket of melty herb butter that keeps the fish incredibly moist.

Ingredients:

  • 2 larger salmon fillets
  • 4 tablespoons butter, softened
  • 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (dill, parsley, chives), chopped
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Mix butter, herbs, garlic, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
  2. Cut a pocket in each salmon fillet.
  3. Stuff with herb butter mixture.
  4. Air fry at 380°F for 10-12 minutes.

The butter melts inside the salmon as it cooks, creating an amazing sauce!

15. Pesto Parmesan Air Fryer Salmon

This Italian-inspired air fryer recipe for salmon combines the bright flavor of pesto with nutty Parmesan cheese.

Ingredients:

  • 2 salmon fillets
  • 3 tablespoons pesto (store-bought or homemade)
  • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Cherry tomatoes for serving

Instructions:

  1. Mix pesto with lemon juice.
  2. Coat salmon fillets with pesto mixture.
  3. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
  4. Air fry at 380°F for 8-10 minutes.
  5. Serve with roasted cherry tomatoes.

This is one of those air fryer recipes for salmon that feels fancy but comes together in minutes!

Special Diet Air Fryer Salmon Recipes

16. Keto-Friendly Parmesan Crusted Air Fryer Salmon

This low-carb air fryer salmon recipe is perfect for those following a keto lifestyle.

Ingredients:

  • 2 salmon fillets
  • 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Mix mayonnaise, Parmesan, and seasonings.
  2. Coat salmon fillets with mixture.
  3. Air fry at 390°F for 8-10 minutes.

The Parmesan creates a crispy, carb-free crust that’s absolutely delicious!

17. Paleo/Whole30 Air Fryer Salmon

This clean-eating air fryer salmon recipe contains no dairy, grains, or refined sugars.

Ingredients:

  • 2 salmon fillets
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried dill
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions:

  1. Mix olive oil and all seasonings.
  2. Coat salmon fillets with mixture.
  3. Air fry at 380°F for 8-10 minutes.
  4. Serve with lemon wedges.

This simple but flavorful air fryer recipe for salmon complies with many special diets while still being delicious!

Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Salmon Every Time

Want to master these air fryer recipes for salmon? Here are my top tips:

  • Don’t overcrowd the basket – air needs to circulate for proper cooking
  • Preheat your air fryer for 3-5 minutes before adding salmon
  • Use a meat thermometer – salmon is done at 145°F internal temperature
  • Pat salmon dry before seasoning for better flavor adhesion
  • Spray the basket with a little oil to prevent sticking
  • Let salmon rest for 2-3 minutes after cooking

For more general cooking advice, check out my tips how to guides section!

FAQs About Air Fryer Salmon Recipes

How long do I cook salmon in the air fryer?

For 6-8 oz fillets, cook at 380°F for 7-12 minutes depending on thickness. According to Feel Good Foodie, a good rule of thumb is about 5 minutes per half-inch thickness of salmon.

Can I cook frozen salmon in the air fryer?

Absolutely! Cook frozen salmon in the air fryer at 390°F for about 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through. No need to thaw!

What temperature should salmon reach?

The FDA recommends cooking salmon to an internal temperature of 145°F for food safety.

How do I know when salmon is done?

Besides temperature, properly cooked salmon will flake easily with a fork and appear opaque throughout.

What sides go well with air fryer salmon?

Air fryer salmon pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, quinoa, rice, or a fresh salad. You can even cook some vegetables in the air fryer at the same time!

Can I use salmon with skin for these recipes?

Yes! According to The Big Man’s World, cooking salmon skin-side down in the air fryer can help protect the delicate flesh and provide extra flavor.

How do I prevent my salmon from sticking to the air fryer?

Either use parchment paper designed for air fryers (with holes) or lightly spray the basket with oil before adding the salmon.

Time to Get Cooking!

Now that you have 17 amazing air fryer recipes for salmon to choose from, it’s time to fire up that air fryer and get cooking! Whether you’re a salmon enthusiast or just looking to add more healthy protein to your diet, these recipes will make you fall in love with the magic of air fryer salmon.

The combination of convenience, consistent results, and incredible flavor makes air fryer recipes for salmon some of the most popular on my blog. And with options ranging from simple weeknight meals to impressive dinner party fare, there’s something for every occasion.

For more delicious air fryer inspiration, check out my meat chicken recipes section, where you’ll find even more protein-packed air fryer ideas!

If you’re new to air fryers or cooking salmon, don’t worry – these recipes are designed to be foolproof. Just follow the instructions, and you’ll be enjoying perfectly cooked salmon in minutes.

Have you tried any of these air fryer salmon recipes? Which one is your favorite? I’d love to hear your feedback in the comments below!

Happy air frying!

Note: If you’re looking for more inspiration, check out Recipe Teacher’s Best Damn Air Fryer Salmon for another fantastic option!

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