Air Fryer Salmon Recipe (Crispy Edges, Flaky Center)
Crispy air fryer salmon with juicy, flaky center and bold seasoning.
Quick Facts
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 7–9 minutes
Total Time: 17–19 minutes
Servings: 4
Yield: 4 salmon fillets
Ingredients
4 salmon fillets, about 6 oz each
1 1/2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
3/4 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
Lemon wedges, for serving
Chopped parsley, optional
Directions
1. Pat the salmon dry and let it sit at room temperature for 10 minutes while preheating the air fryer to 400°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne if using.
3. Rub the seasoning mixture evenly over the salmon fillets.
4. Place the fillets in the air fryer basket in a single layer, leaving space between them.
5. Air fry at 400°F for 7–9 minutes, or until the top is browned and the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
6. Rest for 2 minutes, then serve with lemon wedges.
Notes / Tips
Pat the salmon very dry so the seasoning crust sticks better and browns nicely.
Do not overcrowd the basket, or the salmon will steam instead of crisp.
Thicker fillets may need 1–2 extra minutes.
Let the salmon rest for 2 minutes before serving for a juicier texture.
Variations
Add 1–2 tsp brown sugar for a slightly sweet smoky crust.
Use Cajun seasoning for a bolder, spicier version.
Finish with garlic butter or lemon butter after cooking.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320
Fat: 20 g
Carbohydrates: 1 g
Protein: 33 g
Fiber: 0 g
Sugar: 0 g
Sodium: 520 mg
Nutritional values are estimated per serving.
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