Nothing gets dinner on the table faster in my house than the air fryer. There’s something almost magical about tossing salmon fillets into that little countertop machine and knowing a healthy meal will be ready before the table’s even set. I still remember the first night we tried air fryer salmon—kids were hungry and I’d forgotten to defrost chicken, but salmon fillets from the fridge and whatever we had in the produce drawer turned into something special. Ever since, air fryer salmon recipes have become my go-to for quick, healthy meals—whether it’s a weeknight rush or a lazy Sunday lunch.
1. Classic Lemon Pepper Air Fryer Salmon
Why You’ll Love It:
This is that back-pocket recipe for when you only have a few minutes to spare. It’s bright from lemon and perfectly seasoned, loved by picky eaters and home cooks alike. The reliable, crispy exterior and juicy interior mean you’ll reach for this again and again, especially on nights when you want something nourishing but effortless.
Serving size: Serves 4
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Ingredients Needed:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lemon, zested and sliced
- 1 teaspoon cracked black pepper
- ¾ teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
How to Make It:
- Brush the salmon fillets with olive oil and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and lemon zest.
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F for 3 minutes.
- Place fillets skin-side down in the air fryer basket. Air fry for 8–10 minutes, or until salmon flakes easily.
- Serve with lemon slices and chopped parsley.
Flavor Boost: Add a sprinkle of garlic powder for extra savoriness.
2. Maple Dijon Air Fryer Salmon
Why You’ll Love It:
Perfect for a cozy, cold-weather night or when you want something sweet and savory in minutes. The glaze caramelizes into a sticky exterior the kids love, and clean-up is a breeze.
Serving size: Serves 4
Prep Time: 6 minutes
Cook Time: 9 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Ingredients Needed:
- 4 salmon fillets
- 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ⅛ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon fresh dill, chopped
How to Make It:
- Mix maple syrup and Dijon in a small bowl.
- Pat salmon dry and season with salt and pepper.
- Brush glaze over the fillets.
- Air fry at 390°F for 9 minutes.
- Sprinkle with dill before serving.
Meal Prep Tip: Store leftovers in an airtight container—great cold on salads the next day.
3. Garlic Herb Crusted Air Fryer Salmon
Why You’ll Love It:
This is what to make when you want to impress without effort, or want something a step above your usual. Fresh herbs, panko, and garlic create a crunchy, fragrant topping you’ll crave.
Serving size: Serves 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 11 minutes
Total Time: 21 minutes
Ingredients Needed:
- 4 salmon fillets
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
How to Make It:
- Mix panko, olive oil, garlic, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Press mixture onto the tops of salmon fillets.
- Place in the air fryer basket and cook at 400°F for 10–11 minutes.
Serving Idea: Serve with steamed asparagus or over a mixed greens salad.
4. Spicy Sriracha Air Fryer Salmon
Why You’ll Love It:
If you like a little kick with your fish, this is the weeknight meal for you. It’s fast, bold, and perfect for those who like a punch of flavor. I love this one for adult dinners when we want something with attitude.
Serving size: Serves 4
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Ingredients Needed:
- 4 salmon fillets
- 2 tablespoons sriracha
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon lime juice
- Salt, to taste
- Sliced green onions, for garnish
How to Make It:
- Whisk sriracha, honey, soy sauce, olive oil, and lime juice.
- Brush half the sauce on salmon; save the rest for drizzling.
- Air fry at 400°F for 10 minutes.
- Top with green onions and reserved sauce.
Swap This With That: Replace sriracha with gochujang or chili garlic paste for a different twist.
5. Miso Ginger Air Fryer Salmon
Why You’ll Love It:
Easy umami goodness—the miso and ginger combo brings warmth and richness minus any fuss. It’s fantastic with brown rice or tucked into a rice bowl if you have veggies to use up.
Serving size: Serves 4
Prep Time: 8 minutes
Cook Time: 8 minutes
Total Time: 16 minutes
Ingredients Needed:
- 4 salmon fillets
- 2 tablespoons white miso paste
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- ½ teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
How to Make It:
- Stir miso, honey, soy sauce, ginger, sesame oil, and rice vinegar in a bowl.
- Brush salmon fillets with glaze.
- Cook in air fryer at 375°F for 8 minutes.
Flavor Boost: Top with sliced scallions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
6. Crispy Cajun Air Fryer Salmon
Why You’ll Love It:
This is dinner with a little southern swagger—spicy, crispy, and super satisfying. My family loves it with cornbread and salad for a fast Friday night meal that feels like something more.
Serving size: Serves 4
Prep Time: 7 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 17 minutes
Ingredients Needed:
- 4 salmon fillets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
How to Make It:
- Mix Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, and salt.
- Brush fillets with oil and rub in the seasoning blend.
- Cook at 400°F for 10 minutes.
Best Pairings: Serve with coleslaw, cornbread, or sautéed greens.
7. Honey Soy Glazed Air Fryer Salmon
Why You’ll Love It:
Sticky-sweet, always tasty, and goes with almost any side. This is my go-to when I want something takeout-inspired without calling for delivery.
Serving size: Serves 4
Prep Time: 6 minutes
Cook Time: 9 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Ingredients Needed:
- 4 salmon fillets
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon ginger powder
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
How to Make It:
- Stir together honey, soy sauce, olive oil, garlic, and ginger powders.
- Brush on the salmon and let stand 3 minutes.
- Air fry at 390°F for 9 minutes.
- Sprinkle with sesame seeds.
Meal Prep Tip: Double the sauce and store half to drizzle on cooked salmon for extra flavor.
8. Parmesan Crusted Air Fryer Salmon
Why You’ll Love It:
A shortcut to a restaurant-style meal, but made easy. The cheese forms a savory crust that turns golden in the air fryer—great for when you’re craving comfort food.
Serving size: Serves 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 22 minutes
Ingredients Needed:
- 4 salmon fillets
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Lemon wedges
How to Make It:
- Mix mayo, parmesan, chives, and garlic powder.
- Spread in a thick layer on salmon.
- Air fry at 380°F for 12 minutes.
- Serve with lemon wedges.
Common Mistake to Avoid: Don’t use pre-shredded parmesan—it doesn’t melt as well for the crust.
9. Mediterranean Veggie Air Fryer Salmon
Why You’ll Love It:
Colorful, full of flavor, and a whole meal in one basket if you add veggies. This is your easy summer dinner, picnic-style or weeknight.
Serving size: Serves 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 13 minutes
Total Time: 23 minutes
Ingredients Needed:
- 4 salmon fillets
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- ¼ cup kalamata olives, chopped
- 2 ounces feta cheese, crumbled
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper
How to Make It:
- Toss zucchini and tomatoes with olive oil, salt, pepper, and oregano.
- Place vegetables and salmon fillets in air fryer basket.
- Cook at 380°F for 13 minutes.
- Transfer to plate, sprinkle olives and feta on top.
Serving Idea: Serve with crusty bread for scooping up the juices.
10. Asian Sesame Air Fryer Salmon
Why You’ll Love It:
Nutty, savory, and incredibly fast. If you’ve got sesame oil, a splash of soy, and a bit of garlic, you’re all set—it tastes way fancier than it is.
Serving size: Serves 4
Prep Time: 7 minutes
Cook Time: 9 minutes
Total Time: 16 minutes
Ingredients Needed:
- 4 salmon fillets
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh lime juice
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro (optional)
How to Make It:
- Whisk soy sauce, sesame oil, brown sugar, garlic, and lime juice.
- Pour over salmon and marinate for 5 minutes.
- Air fry at 390°F for 9 minutes.
- Top with sesame seeds and cilantro.
Flavor Boost: Add a dash of chili flakes for subtle heat.
11. Dill Yogurt Air Fryer Salmon
Why You’ll Love It:
The cool tang of yogurt and the freshness of dill make this perfect for spring or summer nights when you want light but filling. Great for sharing family-style.
Serving size: Serves 4
Prep Time: 8 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 18 minutes
Ingredients Needed:
- 4 salmon fillets
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
How to Make It:
- Whisk yogurt, dill, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Pat salmon fillets dry and place in air fryer basket.
- Cook at 390°F for 10 minutes.
- Spoon yogurt sauce over fish before serving.
Swap This With That: Sub mint or parsley if you’re out of fresh dill.
12. BBQ Rubbed Air Fryer Salmon
Why You’ll Love It:
When you want barbecue flavor without firing up the grill, this dry-rub salmon is your answer. It’s smoky, sweet, and cooks up in moments.
Serving size: Serves 4
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Ingredients Needed:
- 4 salmon fillets
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
How to Make It:
- Mix all spices and sugar in a bowl for the BBQ rub.
- Rub mixture over each salmon fillet.
- Air fry at 400°F for 10 minutes.
Best Pairings: Coleslaw, baked beans, or grilled veggies.
13. Pesto Air Fryer Salmon
Why You’ll Love It:
Got a jar of pesto? You’ve got most of the work done. This is bright, herby, and looks beautiful enough for guests, though it’s weeknight-easy.
Serving size: Serves 4
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 9 minutes
Total Time: 14 minutes
Ingredients Needed:
- 4 salmon fillets
- ¼ cup prepared pesto
- 2 tablespoons pine nuts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper
How to Make It:
- Spread pesto evenly over each fillet; sprinkle with pine nuts.
- Drizzle with olive oil and season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Air fry at 390°F for 9 minutes.
Meal Prep Tip: Make extra and flake into pasta for lunch the next day.
14. Chili Lime Air Fryer Salmon
Why You’ll Love It:
A zesty, quick fix with just enough spice and tang to keep you coming back. This one’s a hit for taco night or over a big salad.
Serving size: Serves 4
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Ingredients Needed:
- 4 salmon fillets
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lime, zested and juiced
- 1½ teaspoons chili powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
How to Make It:
- Mix olive oil, lime zest and juice, chili powder, paprika, and salt.
- Brush onto salmon.
- Air fry at 400°F for 10 minutes.
Serving Idea: Serve tucked in warm corn tortillas with extra lime wedges.
15. Everything Bagel Crusted Air Fryer Salmon
Why You’ll Love It:
A snacky, crave-able twist if you love everything bagel seasoning. It’s big on flavor, crunchy, and wildly satisfying over a salad or as the star of a brunch dinner.
Serving size: Serves 4
Prep Time: 4 minutes
Cook Time: 11 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Ingredients Needed:
- 4 salmon fillets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons everything bagel seasoning
- Salt and pepper
How to Make It:
- Brush fillets with olive oil.
- Pat everything bagel seasoning onto the tops.
- Sprinkle with salt and pepper.
- Air fry at 385°F for 11 minutes.
Personal Note: I tried this on a whim for a quick lunch, and now it’s a must-make whenever I have leftover everything seasoning.
16. Teriyaki Air Fryer Salmon
Why You’ll Love It:
Salty, sweet, and sticky—this is a winner, especially with kids or when you’re craving mall-food nostalgia. So much faster, and no pan to wash.
Serving size: Serves 4
Prep Time: 6 minutes
Cook Time: 9 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Ingredients Needed:
- 4 salmon fillets
- ¼ cup teriyaki sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Green onions and sesame seeds for garnish
How to Make It:
- Mix teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, honey, and sesame oil in a bowl.
- Pour over salmon and let marinate for 3–4 minutes.
- Air fry at 390°F for 9 minutes.
- Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds.
Common Mistake to Avoid: Don’t skip marinating, even for a few minutes—the flavor difference is worth it.
17. Moroccan-Spiced Air Fryer Salmon
Why You’ll Love It:
A little out of the ordinary, this one’s warm with spices but still simple. It’s great for nights when you want to feel like you traveled somewhere, even if you’re just at your kitchen counter.
Serving size: Serves 4
Prep Time: 7 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 17 minutes
Ingredients Needed:
- 4 salmon fillets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne (optional)
How to Make It:
- Mix oil with all spices and salt.
- Brush spice paste on all sides of salmon.
- Air fry at 395°F for 10 minutes.
Best Pairings: Couscous salad, roasted carrots, and garlicky yogurt sauce.
FAQ
How do I keep air fryer salmon from drying out?
Check it a couple minutes before the timer is up—salmon cooks fast in the air fryer. It should flake easily with a fork but still look moist inside. Don’t crowd the basket, and avoid overcooking.
Do I need to flip the salmon halfway through cooking?
No flipping needed for most air fryer recipes—just place salmon skin-side down. If you like super crispy skin, you can flip for the last 2 minutes.
Can I cook frozen salmon in the air fryer?
Yes, you can air fry frozen salmon fillets—just add 3–4 minutes to the cook time, and season well. Pat off any moisture before seasoning so the outside still gets crispy.
What are the best sides for air fryer salmon?
Fresh salads, simple steamed rice, roasted vegetables, or quinoa are always perfect. For something special, try sweet potato fries or a quick cucumber salad.
Conclusion
Quick, healthy meals really are possible—especially with a handful of air fryer salmon recipes you can trust on busy nights or for last-minute cravings. Whether you like your salmon classic, spiced, sticky-sweet, or herbed, there’s something on this list that fits your taste and routine. Remember, the beauty of air fryer salmon is how forgiving and fast it is. Don’t be afraid to mix up the flavors or try something new; cooking should always be both practical and delicious. Enjoy making these recipes your own—I hope they turn into favorites at your table, too.
