There’s something magical about the combination of honey and garlic—it’s sweet, savory, and utterly irresistible. As someone who loves cooking but doesn’t always have hours to spend in the kitchen, I’m always looking for quick yet impressive meals. That’s why air fryer honey garlic salmon has become one of my go-to recipes. It’s ready in under 15 minutes, packed with flavor, and feels like a restaurant-quality dish without the fuss.
Salmon is already a superstar when it comes to healthy, protein-rich meals, but when you add a sticky honey garlic glaze and let the air fryer work its magic, it becomes something extraordinary. The outside gets slightly caramelized, while the inside stays tender and flaky. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or impressing guests, this recipe never disappoints.
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Fresh salmon fillets: The star of the dish! Look for center-cut fillets with even thickness to ensure they cook uniformly. Skin-on or skin-off works, but I prefer skin-on for extra crispiness.
Honey: This natural sweetener balances the savory garlic and soy sauce, creating a glossy, sticky glaze. Use raw honey for a deeper flavor, but regular works just as well.
Soy sauce: Adds umami depth and saltiness to the marinade. Low-sodium soy sauce is a great option if you’re watching your salt intake.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic gives the best punch of flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder works, but fresh is always superior.
Lemon juice: A splash brightens the dish and cuts through the richness of the salmon. Freshly squeezed lemon juice makes a noticeable difference.
Olive oil: Helps crisp up the salmon in the air fryer and prevents sticking. You can also use avocado oil for a higher smoke point.
Red pepper flakes (optional): Just a pinch adds a subtle heat that balances the sweetness of the honey.
Ingredients List
- 2 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 2 tbsp honey
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tsp chopped parsley (for garnish, optional)
How to Make Air Fryer Honey Garlic Salmon
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and red pepper flakes (if using). This mixture will be your flavorful glaze.
Step 2: Marinate the Salmon
Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish and pour half of the marinade over them, making sure they’re well-coated. Let them sit for 5-10 minutes to absorb the flavors (or up to 30 minutes for a deeper taste).
Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer
Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and let it heat up for 3 minutes. Preheating ensures even cooking and a crispy exterior.
Step 4: Cook the Salmon
Lightly grease the air fryer basket with oil or use parchment paper for easy cleanup. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down (if skin-on) in a single layer. Air fry for 8-10 minutes, depending on thickness.
Step 5: Glaze and Finish
Halfway through cooking, brush the remaining marinade over the salmon. This adds extra flavor and helps create that beautiful caramelized finish.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once done (internal temp should reach 145°F/63°C), garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately with steamed veggies, rice, or a crisp salad.
Tips for Making This Recipe
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer—cook in batches if needed to ensure crispiness.
- Check for doneness early—thinner fillets may cook faster.
- Use a meat thermometer for perfectly cooked salmon every time.
- Double the glaze if you love extra saucy salmon.
- Let it rest for 2 minutes before serving to keep it juicy.
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes! Thaw it completely in the fridge first and pat it dry to avoid excess moisture.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the air fryer at 300°F (150°C) for 2-3 minutes.
Can I make this in the oven?
Absolutely! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, brushing with glaze halfway.
What sides go well with this?
Try jasmine rice, roasted asparagus, or a quinoa salad for a complete meal.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Use tamari instead of soy sauce to make it gluten-free.
This air fryer honey garlic salmon is a foolproof way to enjoy a gourmet meal with minimal effort. Give it a try—it might just become your new favorite!