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Crispy Air Fryer Salmon Recipe Easy Perfectly Seared Skin Guide featured image

Crispy Air Fryer Salmon With Perfectly Seared Skin

A quick and easy air fryer salmon recipe with shatteringly crispy skin and tender, juicy flesh.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 17 minutes
Servings: 2 fillets
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • 2 skin-on salmon fillets about 6 ounces each
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Lemon wedges for serving

Method
 

  1. Pat the salmon fillets very dry on both sides with paper towels.
  2. Brush the skin side of each fillet with olive oil, using just enough to coat in a thin, even layer.
  3. Season both sides of the salmon with kosher salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
  4. Let the seasoned salmon rest at room temperature for 10 minutes.
  5. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F for 3 minutes.
  6. Place the salmon fillets skin side down in the air fryer basket, leaving a little space between them.
  7. Air fry at 400°F for 7 minutes.
  8. Carefully flip the salmon so the skin faces up and return the basket to the air fryer.
  9. Air fry for 3 to 5 minutes more, until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and the internal temperature reaches 125°F for medium-rare or 145°F for fully cooked.
  10. Transfer the salmon to a plate and let rest for 2 minutes.
  11. Serve immediately with fresh lemon wedges.

Notes

- Patting the salmon very dry helps the skin crisp instead of steam.
- Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket so hot air can circulate around the fillets.
- For the crispiest skin, serve the salmon right away and avoid covering it tightly while hot.
- To reheat leftovers, air fry at 350°F, skin side up, for 3 to 4 minutes until warmed through.
- You can season and refrigerate the salmon up to 24 hours ahead; pat dry again lightly before cooking.