I’ve always loved salmon, but the idea of cooking it perfectly every time can feel intimidating. I started experimenting with my air fryer one evening and realized how effortlessly it could turn salmon into a juicy, flavorful masterpiece. The teriyaki glaze adds the perfect balance of sweet and savory, creating a restaurant-quality dish at home without the hassle of turning on the stove or oven. It quickly became one of my go-to dinners for busy weeknights.
What excites me most about this recipe is how simple it is to customize. You can pair it with steamed vegetables, rice, or even a fresh salad, and it still feels indulgent. The air fryer ensures a perfectly cooked salmon every time, with a caramelized glaze that clings beautifully to the fish. Once I discovered this method, I never looked back—it’s fast, easy, and always impresses anyone I serve it to.
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Salmon Fillets: These are the star of the dish. Choose fresh, skin-on fillets if possible, as the skin helps retain moisture and adds a deliciously crispy texture when air-fried.
Soy Sauce: This forms the savory base of the teriyaki glaze. Opt for low-sodium soy sauce to control the saltiness while keeping the rich umami flavor.
Honey: Adds natural sweetness that balances the saltiness of the soy sauce and creates a glossy finish on the salmon.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic brings an aromatic depth to the teriyaki sauce, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
Ginger: Fresh ginger adds a warm, slightly spicy kick that perfectly complements the sweetness of the honey and the saltiness of the soy sauce.
Rice Vinegar: This ingredient gives the sauce a subtle tang, lifting the flavors and preventing the glaze from being too heavy or sweet.
Cornstarch (optional): If you prefer a thicker, stickier glaze, a small amount of cornstarch mixed with water can help achieve that restaurant-style consistency.
Sesame Seeds (optional): Toasted sesame seeds sprinkled on top add a nutty crunch and elevate the presentation of your finished salmon.
Green Onions (optional): Thinly sliced green onions provide a fresh, vibrant garnish that pairs perfectly with the rich teriyaki flavor.
Ingredients List
- 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (low-sodium recommended)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for thicker glaze)
- 1 teaspoon water (for cornstarch slurry, optional)
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds (optional)
- 1 green onion, sliced (optional)
How to Make Air Fryer Teriyaki Salmon
Prepare the Teriyaki Sauce
In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, grated ginger, and rice vinegar. Mix thoroughly until smooth. If you want a thicker glaze, dissolve cornstarch in water and stir it into the sauce.
Marinate the Salmon
Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish and pour the teriyaki sauce over them. Make sure each fillet is evenly coated. Let them marinate for at least 15–20 minutes to absorb all the flavors.
Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3–5 minutes. This ensures the salmon cooks evenly and develops a slight caramelized finish.
Cook the Salmon
Place the salmon fillets skin-side down in the air fryer basket. Cook for 7–10 minutes, depending on the thickness of your fillets. The salmon should flake easily with a fork and have a slightly caramelized glaze on top.
Serve and Garnish
Remove the salmon from the air fryer and drizzle any remaining sauce over the top. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions if desired. Serve immediately with rice, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Tips for Making this Recipe
- Always pat the salmon dry before marinating to help the glaze stick better.
- Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket; leave space between fillets for even cooking.
- Adjust the cooking time depending on the thickness of the fillets to avoid overcooking.
- For extra flavor, you can brush the salmon with additional sauce halfway through cooking.
- Use a silicone brush for even glazing without losing any sauce in the air fryer basket.
- Leftover salmon can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days; reheat gently to avoid drying it out.
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon fillets for this recipe?
Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely before marinating and cooking to ensure even cooking.
How do I make the teriyaki sauce less sweet?
Reduce the honey or substitute with a natural sweetener like maple syrup or agave to suit your taste.
Can I cook salmon in the air fryer without a marinade?
Absolutely! Simply season with salt, pepper, and a little olive oil for a quick, simple air fryer salmon.
What side dishes pair well with teriyaki salmon?
Steamed rice, quinoa, sautéed vegetables, or a fresh Asian-inspired salad all complement the rich, savory flavor of the salmon.
How do I know when the salmon is done?
The fillet should flake easily with a fork, and the internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).