Salmon (Air Fryer Recipe) - Carlsbad Cravings

Name: Salmon in the Air Fryer
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 4 (6-ounce) salmon fillets, (skin-on); olive oil or spray; 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard; 1-2 tablespoon pure maple syrup ((may sub honey)*); 1 teaspoon reduced sodium soy sauce; 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 3/4 tsp EACH salt, garlic powder; 1/2 tsp EACH chili powder, onion powder; 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger, pepper; Lemon or lime for squeezing; Parsley or chives ((optional)); Avocado crema ((optional)); Corn salsa ((optional)); Pineapple Salsa ((optional)); Mango Salsa ((optional))

This air fryer salmon is the ultimate go-to recipe for perfectly cooked, unbelievably juicy salmon in under 20 minutes! It boasts an intoxicatingly delicious wet rub and a gorgeous caramelized exterior that you will crave. It has been carefully tested to deliver restaurant-quality results at home with exact internal temperature guidance, expert tips, seasoning variations, and serving ideas that make it both foolproof and flavorful. Let’s air fry!

how to make air fryer salmon

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salmon in the air fryer showing the caramelized exterior

Why you’ll love this air fryer salmon

If you haven’t air fried salmon before, prepare to be obsessed! Air-frying salmon is a favorite at our house—just season, air-fry, and enjoy—no need to babysit the pan or risk burnt or broken fillets! Best of all, I’ve poured all my experience into this post, walking you through everything you need to know to master air-fried salmon. Here’s why you’ll love it:

Quick and easy: Ready in under 20 minutes with a quick wet rub, and just 7–10 minutes in the air fryer, making it perfect for busy weeknights and effortless cleanup.
Perfectly cooked every time: This recipe includes exact internal temperature guidance to ensure juicy, tender perfection—no dry or overcooked salmon here!
Incredibly juicy with a caramelized exterior: The maple Dijon wet rub locks in moisture while the maple and a light spritz of olive oil create a lightly crisp exterior.
Seasoned to perfection: The recipe hits all the flavor notes—salt, sugar, acid, and spice—for a balanced, craveable bite every time.
Tons of variation ideas: From lemon herb to teriyaki to blackened Cajun, it’s endlessly customizable to your mood or pantry.
Healthy and satisfying: High in protein and omega-3s, it’s a nutritious option that doesn’t sacrifice flavor.

up close of air fried salmon with a bite taken out showing how juicy the interior is

Air Fried Salmon Ingredients

Let’s take a closer look at what you need to make this recipe (measurements in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post):

Salmon Fillets: Use four skin-on salmon fillets for the best flavor and moisture retention. Atlantic salmon or king salmon are ideal due to their rich, buttery texture, but sockeye or coho salmon also work well. It is often less expensive and fresher to have the seafood counter the fillets for you.
Olive Oil: Helps insulate the fish to prevent it from drying out and promotes browning in the air fryer. You can use avocado oil as an alternative. I prefer to use this olive oil sprayer, so I can spritz it after adding the wet rub as well.
Dijon Mustard: Adds tangy depth and helps emulsify the glaze, allowing it to cling to the salmon. You may also use stone-ground mustard.
Pure Maple Syrup: This balances the tangy mustard with sweetness and aids in caramelization. Use more if you would like a sweeter flavor profile.
You can substitute honey for a floral note or brown sugar for a richer, molasses-like flavor.
Soy Sauce: Enhances umami and adds a subtle saltiness. Use low-sodium soy sauce or reduce the salt in the recipe.
Balsamic Vinegar: Adds a touch of acidity and complexity to the glaze. Red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar can be substituted in a pinch.
Spice Blend: A mix of smoked paprika, salt, garlic powder, chili powder, onion powder, ground ginger, and black pepper adds smoky, savory depth with a hint of warmth and subtle spice.

top view of air fryer salmon ingredients: salmon filets, olive oil, Dijon mustard, soy sauce, balsamic vinegar, maple syrup, and spices

How to Cook Salmon in Air Fryer

Let’s take a closer look at how to make this recipe with step-by-step photos (full recipe in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post):

Step 1: Set the air fryer to 400°F using the Air Fryer setting. Pat your salmon filets dry with a paper towel, then lightly brush or spray with olive oil.

Step 2: Whisk all the remaining ingredients together in a small bowl, then slather it on the tops and sides of the salmon. Lightly spray the salmon with olive oil, optional if you have a sprayer (this one is my FAV).

showing how to air fry salmon by whisking together the wet rub ingredients, then brushing it on the salmon

Step 3: Spray the air fryer basket with nonstick cooking spray. Arrange the salmon fillets in a single layer without touching (you may need to work in batches) and air fry until cooked to your liking.

showing how to air fry salmon by placing in the air fryer basket and air frying until cooked

showing how to air fry salmon by air frying until caramelized on the outside and juicy on the inside

How long to Air Fry Salmon

Air fry the salmon at 400°F until the internal temperature reaches 135°F, about 7 to 10 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets. Thinner pieces may be done in as little as 6 minutes, while thicker cuts can take closer to 10. The salmon will continue to cook as it rests and should reach a final temperature of 140–145°F.

air fry salmon on a plate being served with lemon

Salmon Air Fryer Tips

Preheat your air fryer: Don’t jump into air frying without preheating it first. Preheating ensures the salmon starts cooking immediately and develops a nicely caramelized exterior. You can preheat while you’re preparing the salmon.
Use similar-sized fillets: This ensures even cooking so all pieces finish at the same time. If your fillets are different sizes, be prepared to remove them from the air fryer at different times.
Leave space between fillets: Don’t overcrowd the basket—air needs to circulate for crisp edges and even doneness. You may only be able to cook two fillets at a time, depending on the size of your basket.
Skin-side down: Always place the salmon skin-side down in the basket to protect the flesh and keep it juicy.
Avoid flipping: Salmon is delicate and doesn’t need to be flipped—air circulation cooks it evenly from all sides.
Don’t overcook: Salmon continues to cook after it’s removed, so pulling it a few degrees early helps avoid a dry, chalky texture. Monitor the temperature closely with an instant-read thermometer.
Let it rest: Rest the salmon for 3–5 minutes after air frying to allow juices to redistribute for digging in.

showing how to serve air fryer salmon recipe in a bowl with rice and air fried vegetables

Air Fryer Salmon Recipe Variations

You can make any of my salmon recipes in the air fryer! See all of them HERE. Below are some more tasty variations:

Lemon Herb: Replace the glaze with a drizzle of olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, and a sprinkle of dried herbs like dill, parsley, and thyme. Finish with lemon zest for brightness.
Teriyaki Glazed: Replace the mustard and maple glaze with a combination of teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, and a hint of brown sugar or honey. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions after cooking.
Blackened Cajun: Rub salmon with olive oil and coat heavily in Cajun seasoning. This version has bold heat and smoky depth—great with a dollop of garlic-lime crema.
Garlic Parmesan Crusted: Spread a thin layer of Dijon or mayonnaise mixed with minced garlic and grated Parmesan cheese over the top before air-frying. It forms a flavorful crust with a creamy bite.
Sweet Chili Lime: Combine sweet chili sauce with lime juice and a touch of soy sauce for a sweet, tangy, slightly spicy glaze. Garnish with chopped cilantro.
Maple Dijon Pecan-Crusted: Stick with the original maple-Dijon glaze, then press finely chopped pecans on top before air frying for added crunch and nuttiness.
Mediterranean Style: Season with olive oil, garlic, oregano, and lemon juice, then top with chopped tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and crumbled feta after cooking.

a fork biting into salmon air fryer recipe garnished with parsley and chives

How to serve salmon air fryer recipe

Over rice or grains: Serve the salmon over jasmine rice, quinoa, farro, or couscous to soak up the glaze or juices. Add corn salsa or pineapple salsa.
With a salad: Pair with a fresh salad, such as arugula with lemon vinaigrette, cucumber-dill salad, or a hearty grain salad, for a lighter option.
In a bowl: Build a salmon bowl with rice or greens, avocado, pickled red onions, shredded carrots, edamame, and a drizzle of avocado crema or sriracha mayo.
Taco-style: Flake the salmon and serve in warm tortillas with slaw, guacamole, pico de gallo, and plenty of freshly squeezed lime juice.
On pasta: Serve over garlic butter pasta, creamy lemon pasta, or a pesto pasta for an elegant dinner.
With roasted or air-fried vegetables: Add roasted asparagus, green beans, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts on the side for a nutritious plate.
As a sandwich or wrap: Add flaked salmon to a brioche bun or wrap with lettuce, tomato, and a smear of aioli or Dijon for a flavorful twist
With potatoes: Try it alongside mashed potatoes, roasted baby potatoes, or a potato salad for comfort-food vibes

HOW TO STORE air fried salmon

•Refrigerate: Let the salmon cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Place parchment paper between fillets if stacking.
•Freeze: Wrap each cooled fillet tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Label with the date for easy tracking.

How To reheat air fryer salmon

•Reheat: For best results, reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3–4 minutes or in the oven at 300°F until just warmed through. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can dry out the fish.
•Use leftovers creatively: Flake chilled salmon into salads, wraps, pasta, grain bowls, or scrambled eggs for quick meals. See the above section for lots of serving ideas!

Air Fry Salmon FAQs

How to season salmon for air fryer?

To season salmon for the air fryer, start by patting the fillets dry with paper towels—this helps the seasoning stick and prevents steaming. Lightly brush the salmon with olive oil to lock in moisture and promote browning.

A good salmon seasoning should hit all the key flavor elements: salt, sugar, acid, and spice. You can use a simple Cajun-inspired dry rub made with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, black pepper, and salt for a bold, savory flavor.

Or opt for a glaze by mixing Dijon mustard, maple syrup (or honey), soy sauce, and a splash of balsamic vinegar for a sweet, tangy, and umami-packed coating. Apply your seasoning or glaze evenly over the top (no need to season the skin side), and let the salmon rest for 5–10 minutes before cooking to allow the flavors to settle in. This method ensures that every bite of your air-fried salmon is flavorful, juicy, and perfectly balanced.

Do you have to flip salmon in air fryer?

No, you do not have to flip salmon in the air fryer. Air fryers circulate hot air around the food, so both sides cook evenly without the need to turn it. In fact, keeping the salmon skin-side down the entire time helps protect the delicate flesh, keeps the fillet moist, and prevents it from falling apart. Flipping is more likely to break the fillet or cause sticking—so skip it and let the air fryer do the work for you!

How to tell when salmon is done in an air fryer?

To tell when salmon is done in an air fryer, check that the internal temperature has reached 135°F in the thickest part of the fillet—this allows it to finish cooking off heat to a juicy 140–145°F.

The salmon should easily flake with a fork, but still look slightly translucent in the center (not raw). Visually, the flesh should turn from a deeper, glossy orange to a lighter opaque pink. If the salmon is dry, chalky, or curling at the edges, it’s likely overcooked—so it’s best to rely on a meat thermometer for perfect results every time.

Can you air fry frozen salmon?

Yes, you can air fry frozen salmon, and it turns out surprisingly well! The texture may be slightly softer than fresh, but it’s still juicy, flavorful, and perfect for a fast, no-fuss meal.

You don’t need to thaw it first—rinse off any ice crystals, pat it dry, and plan on pausing the air frying once the exterior is thawed to apply any seasonings or wet rubs. Air fry at 400°F for a total of 12–15 minutes, depending on thickness, until the internal temperature reaches 135°F. For best results, add a minute or two if the fillets are especially thick, and always check doneness with a thermometer.

What temp to air fry salmon?

Air frying salmon at 400°F is ideal because it strikes the perfect balance between quick cooking and caramelized, flavorful results. The high heat helps the exterior develop a lightly crisp, golden crust while locking in moisture so the inside stays tender and juicy. It also mimics the searing effect of pan-roasting or broiling—without needing extra oil or a hot oven.

At lower temperatures, salmon can dry out from overexposure to heat or develop a mushy texture, while higher temps risk burning the glaze or seasoning before the center is cooked. With 400°F, you get reliably even cooking in about 7–10 minutes, making it both efficient and delicious.

salmon air fryer with a bite taken out showing the juicy interior and caramelized exterior

Looking for more Salmon Recipes?

Grilled Mahi Mahi
Baked Salmon
Teriyaki Salmon
Honey Soy Salmon
Baked Salmon with Dill Sauce
Baked Pesto Salmon
Lemon Pepper Salmon
Salmon with Mango Salmon
Honey Mustard Salmon
Cilantro Lime Salmon
Baked Salmon with Lemon Garlic Butter

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Total Time: 20

Prep Time: 10

Cook Time: 10

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Ingredients

4 (6-ounce) salmon fillets, skin-on
olive oil or spray
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
1-2 tablespoon pure maple syrup (may sub honey)*
1 teaspoon reduced sodium soy sauce
1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
3/4 tsp EACH salt, garlic powder
1/2 tsp EACH chili powder, onion powder
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger, pepper

Serving Ideas

Lemon or lime for squeezing
Parsley or chives (optional)
Avocado crema (optional)
Corn salsa (optional)
Pineapple Salsa (optional)
Mango Salsa (optional)

Instructions

Set the air fryer to 400°F using the Air Fryer setting to preheat. Pat your salmon filets dry with a paper towel, then lightly brush or spray with olive oil.
Whisk all the remaining ingredients together in a small bowl to create a wet rub. Brush it on the tops and sides of the salmon. Lightly spritz the salmon with olive oil if you have a sprayer (this is my FAV).
Spray the air fryer basket with nonstick cooking spray. Arrange the salmon filets in a single layer without touching, skin-side down (you may need to work in batches). Air fry until the internal temperature reaches 135°F, about 7 to 10 minutes, depending on the thickness.
Serve with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, freshly cracked salt as desired, or any of the suggested serving options. Enjoy!