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Easy Crispy Air Fryer Salmon Recipe for Perfect Healthy Dinners featured image

Easy Crispy Air Fryer Salmon Recipe for Perfect Healthy Dinners

A quick air fryer salmon with crispy skin and tender, flaky flesh for easy, healthy weeknight dinners.
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Prep Time 8 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 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
  • 0.75 teaspoon salt
  • 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
  • Lemon wedges for serving

Method
 

  1. Pat the salmon fillets very dry on both skin and flesh sides with paper towels.
  2. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F for 3 minutes.
  3. In a small bowl, stir together the olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
  4. Brush or rub the seasoning mixture evenly over all sides of the salmon, including the skin.
  5. Place the salmon fillets skin side down in the air fryer basket in a single layer, leaving a little space between each piece.
  6. Cook at 400°F for 8 minutes, then check the thickest fillet; if it flakes easily with a fork and looks opaque, it is done.
  7. If needed, continue cooking for 1 to 2 more minutes until the salmon is cooked through and the edges are deep golden and crisp.
  8. Transfer the salmon to a plate or wire rack and let rest for 2 minutes.
  9. Serve hot with lemon wedges.

Notes

- Patting the salmon very dry before seasoning helps the skin get extra crispy.
- Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches if needed so the air can circulate.
- For best texture, serve right after cooking rather than holding or keeping warm for long periods.
- Leftover salmon can be reheated skin side up in the air fryer at 350°F for 3 to 5 minutes.