There’s something magical about the combination of sweet honey and savory salmon, especially when it’s cooked to perfection in an air fryer. As someone who loves both cooking and efficiency, I’m always looking for ways to make delicious meals without spending hours in the kitchen. This Air Fryer Honey Glazed Salmon is one of my go-to recipes—it’s fast, flavorful, and feels like a restaurant-quality dish made right at home.
Salmon is already a fantastic choice for a healthy, protein-packed meal, but when you add a sticky-sweet honey glaze and let the air fryer work its magic, you get crispy edges, tender flesh, and a dish that’s ready in under 15 minutes. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or impressing guests, this recipe never disappoints. Let’s dive into what you’ll need and how to make it!
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 or skin-off works, but I prefer skin-on for extra crispiness.
Honey: This natural sweetener creates a beautiful glaze that caramelizes slightly in the air fryer. Use raw honey for a deeper flavor, but regular honey works just as well.
Soy sauce: Adds a savory umami depth that balances the sweetness of the honey. Low-sodium soy sauce is a great option if you’re watching salt intake.
Garlic powder: A quick way to infuse garlic flavor without the hassle of mincing fresh garlic. If you love garlic, feel free to add a little extra.
Lemon juice: A splash of acidity brightens up the dish and cuts through the richness of the salmon. Freshly squeezed is best!
Olive oil: Helps prevent sticking and gives the salmon a nice golden finish. You can also use avocado oil if preferred.
Salt & black pepper: Essential for seasoning. Freshly cracked pepper adds a subtle warmth.
Red pepper flakes (optional): If you like a little heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick.
Ingredients List
- 2 (6-oz) salmon fillets
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp olive oil
- ¼ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ⅛ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
How to Make Air Fryer Honey Glazed Salmon
Step 1: Prepare the Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, garlic powder, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes (if using). This mixture will be brushed onto the salmon for maximum flavor.
Step 2: Season the Salmon
Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel to ensure crispiness. Drizzle with olive oil, then sprinkle with salt and black pepper on both sides.
Step 3: Air Fry the Salmon
Preheat the air fryer to 390°F (200°C) for 3 minutes. Place the salmon in the basket, skin-side down if using skin-on fillets. Air fry for 6 minutes, then brush the glaze generously over the top. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the salmon flakes easily and the glaze is sticky.
Step 4: Rest and Serve
Let the salmon rest for 2 minutes before serving to allow the juices to settle. Drizzle with any remaining glaze and enjoy!
Tips for Making This Recipe
- Check for doneness—Salmon is ready when it reaches 145°F (63°C) internally or flakes easily with a fork.
- Don’t overcrowd—Cook in batches if needed to ensure even crisping.
- Adjust sweetness—If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the honey slightly.
- Add herbs—A sprinkle of fresh dill or parsley at the end adds freshness.
- Use parchment paper—For easy cleanup, place a parchment liner in the air fryer basket.
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes! Thaw it completely and pat it dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the air fryer at 350°F for 2-3 minutes.
Can I make this in the oven instead?
Absolutely! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, brushing with glaze in the last 5 minutes.
What sides go well with this salmon?
Try roasted asparagus, quinoa, or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
This Air Fryer Honey Glazed Salmon is a foolproof way to enjoy a gourmet-tasting dish with minimal effort. Give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!