There’s something magical about perfectly cooked salmon—flaky, buttery, and bursting with flavor. As someone who loves quick, healthy meals without sacrificing taste, I’ve fallen in love with making salmon in the air fryer. It’s faster than the oven, easier to clean up than the stovetop, and delivers restaurant-quality results every time.
If you’ve ever struggled with overcooked or dry salmon, this method will change your cooking game. The air fryer locks in moisture while giving the outside a deliciously crisp edge. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—you can use your favorite seasonings, glazes, or keep it simple with just salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon. Let’s dive into how to make the most tender and moist air fryer salmon you’ve ever tasted!
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Fresh salmon fillets: The star of the dish! Look for bright, firm fillets with no fishy odor. Skin-on or skinless both work, but I prefer skin-on for extra crispiness. Wild-caught salmon has a richer flavor, while farm-raised tends to be fattier and more buttery.
Olive oil: A light coating helps the seasonings stick and ensures the salmon doesn’t dry out. Extra virgin olive oil adds a subtle fruity note, but any neutral oil like avocado oil works too.
Salt & black pepper: Simple but essential. Salt enhances the natural flavor of the salmon, while freshly cracked black pepper adds a gentle warmth.
Lemon (optional): A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens up the dish, balancing the richness of the salmon. You can also add lemon slices on top while cooking for extra aroma.
Garlic powder & paprika (optional): These add depth—garlic powder brings a savory touch, while smoked or sweet paprika gives a hint of smokiness or mild spice.
Ingredients List
- 2 (6-oz) salmon fillets, skin-on or skinless
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- ½ teaspoon paprika (optional)
- Lemon wedges, for serving
How to Make Tender & Moist Air Fryer Salmon
Step 1: Prep the Salmon
Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel—this helps the oil and seasonings adhere better. If your fillets have skin, check for any remaining scales and remove them.
Step 2: Season the Salmon
Drizzle the salmon with olive oil, then sprinkle evenly with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika (if using). Gently rub the seasonings into the flesh.
Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer
Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and let it preheat for 3–5 minutes. Preheating ensures even cooking and a crisp exterior.
Step 4: Cook the Salmon
Place the salmon in the air fryer basket, skin-side down if using skin-on fillets. Cook for 8–10 minutes, depending on thickness. For medium doneness, aim for an internal temperature of 125–130°F (52–54°C).
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Let the salmon rest for 2–3 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping it moist. Squeeze fresh lemon juice on top and enjoy!
Tips for Making This Recipe
- Don’t overcrowd the basket: Leave space between fillets for proper air circulation.
- Adjust cooking time: Thicker fillets may need an extra minute or two.
- Check for doneness: Salmon should flake easily with a fork but still look slightly translucent in the center.
- Try a glaze: In the last 2 minutes, brush with honey, soy sauce, or maple-Dijon for extra flavor.
- Use foil or parchment: For easier cleanup, line the basket with perforated parchment paper.
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes! Thaw it completely in the fridge first, then pat dry to remove excess moisture.
Do I need to flip the salmon? No—cooking it skin-side down ensures even crisping without flipping.
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 300°F (150°C) for 2–3 minutes.
Can I use other seasonings? Absolutely! Try Cajun seasoning, herbs like dill, or a simple sprinkle of everything bagel seasoning.
Why is my salmon sticking to the basket? Lightly oil the basket or use parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Enjoy your perfectly cooked air fryer salmon—it’s a foolproof way to get tender, flavorful fish in minutes!