There’s something incredibly satisfying about a perfectly cooked piece of salmon—crispy on the outside, tender and flaky on the inside. As someone who loves both cooking and efficiency, I’ve found that the air fryer is a game-changer for achieving restaurant-quality salmon at home in just minutes. No more worrying about overcooking or drying it out; this method locks in moisture while giving that irresistible golden crust.
I’ve experimented with different seasonings and techniques, and this crispy air fryer salmon recipe is my absolute favorite. It’s simple enough for busy weeknights but impressive enough to serve guests. Plus, it’s healthy, packed with protein and omega-3s, and pairs beautifully with almost any side dish. Once you try this method, you might never go back to pan-searing or baking salmon again!
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Fresh salmon fillets: The star of the dish! Look for center-cut fillets with even thickness for the best results. Skin-on salmon works great here, as it gets extra crispy in the air fryer. If using frozen salmon, make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before cooking.
Olive oil: A light coating helps the seasonings stick and promotes even browning. Extra-virgin olive oil adds a subtle richness, but avocado oil works well too if you prefer a higher smoke point.
Salt and black pepper: Essential for enhancing the natural flavor of the salmon. I like using coarse sea salt for a little extra texture, but any salt will do. Freshly ground black pepper adds a mild kick.
Garlic powder: This adds a savory depth without the risk of burning minced garlic. If you love garlic, you can also sprinkle a little extra at the end.
Paprika (optional): A touch of smoked or sweet paprika gives a warm, slightly smoky flavor and a beautiful color. If you want a little heat, try cayenne pepper instead.
Lemon wedges (for serving): A squeeze of fresh lemon brightens up the dish and balances the richness of the salmon. You can also add lemon zest before cooking for extra citrusy flavor.
Ingredients List
- 2 (6-oz) salmon fillets, skin-on
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp paprika (optional)
- Lemon wedges, for serving
How to Make Crispy Air Fryer Salmon
Step 1: Prep the Salmon
Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel—this is key for achieving crispiness. If there’s excess moisture, the salmon will steam instead of getting that perfect crust. Leave the skin on; it becomes deliciously crispy in the air fryer.
Step 2: Season the Salmon
Drizzle the fillets with olive oil and rub it evenly over both sides. Sprinkle with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika (if using). Gently press the seasonings into the salmon so they adhere well.
Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3 minutes. While not always necessary, preheating helps ensure even cooking and a crispier exterior.
Step 4: Air Fry the Salmon
Place the salmon skin-side down in the air fryer basket, leaving space between the fillets for proper air circulation. Cook for 8–10 minutes, depending on thickness. For medium doneness, aim for an internal temperature of 125–130°F (52–54°C). No need to flip—the hot air will crisp the top while keeping the inside tender.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Let the salmon rest for 2 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping it moist. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top and enjoy!
Tips for Making This Recipe
- Check for doneness early—Salmon cooks quickly, so start checking at the 8-minute mark to avoid overcooking.
- Adjust cook time for thickness—Thicker fillets may need an extra minute or two.
- Don’t overcrowd the basket—Cook in batches if needed to ensure crispiness.
- Experiment with seasonings—Try adding dried herbs like dill or thyme for extra flavor.
- Use a meat thermometer—For perfect doneness, the internal temp should be 125–130°F (52–54°C) for medium.
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, but make sure to thaw it completely in the fridge overnight and pat it dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.
Do I need to flip the salmon?
No! The air fryer circulates heat evenly, so flipping isn’t necessary. The skin side gets extra crispy while the top browns beautifully.
What sides go well with this salmon?
Try roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, quinoa, or mashed potatoes. It also pairs wonderfully with a creamy dill sauce.
Can I make this without oil?
A light oil coating helps with crispiness, but you can use cooking spray if preferred. Just avoid non-stick sprays with additives, which can damage the air fryer basket over time.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 2–3 minutes to maintain texture.
This crispy air fryer salmon is a foolproof way to enjoy a healthy, flavorful meal with minimal effort. Give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!