This air fryer salmon recipe gives you tender, flaky fillets with crisped edges in about 10 minutes of cooking. A little olive oil and a few pantry spices are all you need, and the quick method works well for busy weeknights. The most important detail is thickness: use the timing as a guide and check the center with a thermometer.
Why cook salmon in the air fryer?
Hot circulating air cooks individual portions quickly without heating a full oven. Leaving a little space around each fillet helps the air move, while placing the salmon skin-side down makes it easier to lift out after cooking. The spice mix is intentionally simple so the salmon stays the focus; add lemon at the table for freshness.
Ingredients and helpful swaps
You will need four 6-ounce salmon fillets, olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, kosher salt, black pepper, lemon wedges, and optional parsley. Skin-on or skinless fillets both work. If your seasoning blend already contains salt, reduce the added salt and taste after cooking. For a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne; for a citrus note, finish with lemon zest.
Air fryer salmon timing and temperature
Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C), if your model recommends preheating. Pat the fish dry, brush it lightly with oil, and season all sides. Arrange the fillets in a single layer, skin-side down, without crowding the basket. Air-fry for 7 to 10 minutes, beginning to check at 7 minutes. Thin portions may finish sooner; thicker pieces need more time, and air fryer models vary.
For food safety, the FDA recommends cooking fish to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C), measured in the thickest part. Insert an instant-read thermometer from the side of the fillet for a reliable reading. See the FoodSafety.gov safe minimum temperature chart for guidance. Rest for 2 minutes, then serve with lemon and parsley.
What to serve with it
Pair the salmon with rice, roasted vegetables, or a crisp salad. For more ideas, browse our easy dinner recipes, try one-pot chicken and rice on another night, or learn more about the cook on our About page. Leftovers keep covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently until hot, though salmon is best freshly cooked.
Air Fryer Salmon Recipe
Use the recipe card for the measured seasoning and a quick checklist. The cook time is a range because fillet thickness and air fryer performance can change the result; always check temperature before serving.
Air Fryer Salmon
Ingredients
Method
- Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Check for pin bones and remove any you find.
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3 minutes, following your appliance instructions.
- Brush the fillets lightly with olive oil. Season with paprika, garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper.
- Arrange the salmon skin-side down in the air fryer basket with space between pieces. Air-fry for 7 to 10 minutes, depending on thickness and your air fryer; begin checking at 7 minutes.
- Check the thickest part with an instant-read thermometer. For food safety, cook to 145°F (63°C), then rest for 2 minutes. Serve with lemon wedges and parsley.
Estimated nutrition
Approximate values per 6-ounce fillet (¼ of the recipe). Estimates vary with the salmon species, exact portion size, and salt used; provided for general information.
| Nutrient | Per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 365 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 1 g |
| Protein | 35 g |
| Total fat | 23 g |
| Saturated fat | 5 g |
| Fiber | 0 g |
| Sugars | 0 g |
| Sodium | 430 mg |
