Air Fryer Salmon (in 12 minutes!)

This easy Air Fryer Salmon with skin is juicy, flavorful, and ready in just 12 minutes! Whether you're cooking for a weeknight dinner or meal prepping healthy salmon bites for your lunch bowl, this recipe is a total time-saver.

Ingredients

• Salmon type – You can use skin-on or skin-off salmon here. Skin-on salmon keeps the fish extra juicy in the air fryer. I use 7 oz center-cut fillets.
• Avocado oil– Helps crisp up the skin and keeps the salmon from sticking. Olive oil also works.
• Salt– Essential for bringing out the natural flavor of the fish.
• Black pepper– Adds a little bite without overpowering the lemon.
• Fresh lemon zest– Zesty and brightens up the whole dish. Don't skip it!
• Lemon slices– I always serve some extra lemon on the side for squeezing before eating.
• My favorite air fryer!
• Want more easy air fryer meals? Check out my healthyAir Fryer Chicken NuggetsorAir Fryer Sweetcorn on the Cob!

📋 You can find the full ingredient list in the Recipe Card below the article.

How To Make Salmon in Air Fryer

1. Preheat the air fryer:Set it to 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes.
2. Pat the salmon dry:Use paper towels to remove excess moisture—this helps it get that nice crust.
3. Oil the salmon:Brush both sides with avocado oil.
4. Season:Sprinkle salt, pepper, and lemon zest evenly over each fillet.
5. Air fry:Place fillets skin-side down in the air fryer basket (don't overcrowd). Cook for 7-10 minutes, depending on thickness.
6. Check for doneness:Salmon is donewhen it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.
7. Rest and serve:Let sit for a couple of minutes. Serve with lemon wedges.
8. Pair withRoasted Asparagus– One of my favorite quick sides for this dish!

Can I use a marinade?

Absolutely! Try miso,Teriyaki,Hot Honey,Garlic butter, or even maple-soy. Just pat it dry before cooking.

Tips

• Keep the skin on– It acts like a natural barrier, keeping the salmon moist and flavorful.
• Use a marinade– Try a quick teriyaki or miso marinade for a fun flavor twist.
• Watch the temp– Don't overcook! Pull it at 140–145°F for perfectly flaky salmon.
• Don't crowd the basket– Give your fillets space for air to circulate evenly.
• Serve asSalmon Bites– Dice after cooking and use inMediterranean bowls,tacos, or wraps.
• Turn into patties– Discard the flakes and mix with breadcrumbs and seasoning to make salmon patties.
• Add garlic or herbs– A sprinkle of garlic powder, dill, or parsley adds extra flavor.
• Use frozen salmon– Thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.
• Crisp the skin more– Cook for an extra minute, skin-side down, if you want it crispier.

➡️🍣Try next:80 Salmon Recipes

Freezing and Storing Instructions

• To StoreKeep cooled salmon in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• To FreezeWrap each fillet tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
• To ReheatAir fry at 350°F for 3-5 minutes or microwave gently with a damp paper towel on top.

Can I turn leftovers into patties?

Yes! Mix flaked salmon with breadcrumbs, an egg, and seasoning - perfect for lunch the next day. It will also work great in thisCreamy Cauliflower Casserole. Yum!

More Recipes

• Salmon Curry
• Potato Salmon Blinis
• Asian Salmon Bowls
• Expert Tips For Buying Salmon

Did You Like This Recipe?

Leave a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ rating belowandshare it onInstagram,Facebook, andPinterest!

Recipe Card

Print

Air Fryer Salmon

Crispy Air Fryer Salmon with skin is juicy, quick, and perfect for weeknights. Add lemon zest, marinade, or teriyaki, and serve with asparagus or in a healthy bowl!

CourseMain Course

Keywordair fryer salmon, quick roasted salmon, salmon in air fryer

Prep Time5minutes minutes

Cook Time7minutes minutes

Total Time12minutes minutes

Servings4 servings

AuthorJulia

Ingredients

• 4 x 6-7 ounce salmon fillets
• 2 tablespoons Avocado oil orhigh quality olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• zest of one fresh lemon
• fresh lemon or lime wedges for serving

Instructions

• Preheat the air fryer:Set it to 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes.
• Pat the salmon dry:Use paper towels to remove excess moisture—this helps it get that nice crust.
  4 x 6-7 ounce salmon fillets
• Oil the salmon:Brush both sides withAvocado oil.
  2 tablespoonsAvocado oil
• Season:Sprinkle salt, pepper, and lemon zest evenly over each fillet.
  1 teaspoon salt,½ teaspoon black pepper,zest of one fresh lemon
• Air fry:Place fillets skin-side down in the air fryer basket (don't overcrowd). Cook for 7–10 minutes, depending on thickness.
• Check for doneness:Salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.
• Rest and serve:Let sit for a couple of minutes. Serve with lemon wedges.
• If you loved this recipe, please leave a 5-star rating and review below!
  fresh lemon or lime wedges

Note:Nutrition information is estimated and varies depending on the products used.

Full Nutrition Disclaimer can be foundhere.

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