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Easy Crispy Air Fryer Salmon Recipe for Perfect Healthy Dinners recipe card

Easy Crispy Air Fryer Salmon

A quick, fuss free air fryer salmon with crispy skin and tender, flaky flesh, perfect for healthy weeknight dinners.
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Prep Time 8 minutes
Cook Time 11 minutes
Total Time 19 minutes
Servings: 4 salmon fillets
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 280
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • 4 salmon fillets about 6 oz each, skin on
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 3/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • Lemon wedges for serving

Method
 

  1. Pat the salmon fillets very dry on both sides with paper towels until the surface looks matte, not shiny.
  2. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F for 3 minutes.
  3. In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper into a smooth paste.
  4. Brush or rub the seasoning mixture evenly over the salmon fillets on all sides, including the skin.
  5. Place the salmon fillets skin side down in the air fryer basket in a single layer, leaving space between each piece.
  6. Air fry at 400°F for 8 minutes, then check; the salmon should flake easily with a fork and the skin should be browned and crisp.
  7. If needed for thicker fillets or crisper skin, continue cooking for 1 to 3 more minutes, checking so the salmon does not dry out.
  8. Transfer the salmon to a plate or wire rack and let rest for 2 minutes.
  9. Serve warm with lemon wedges for squeezing over the top.

Notes

- Use fillets of similar size and thickness so they cook evenly.
- Patting the salmon very dry helps the skin crisp instead of steam.
- Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket or the salmon will not brown properly.
- For reheating, place leftover salmon in the air fryer at 350°F for 3 to 4 minutes until warmed through.
- This recipe works with skinless salmon, but the edges will crisp more than the bottom.