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Air Fryer Salmon

This air fryer salmon is quick, juicy, and full of flavor. An easy high-protein dinner made with simple seasonings and ready in about 15 minutes.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 280 kcal

Equipment

  • Air fryer
  • Small mixing bowl
  • Tongs
  • Measuring spoons
  • Meat thermometer
  • Paper towels

Ingredients
  

  • 4 salmon fillets, about 6 ounces each
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice

Optional

  • lemon wedges
  • chopped parsley
  • red pepper flakes
  • garlic butter for serving

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the air fryer
    Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3 minutes.
  • Prep the salmon
    Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Brush with olive oil and lemon juice.
  • Season the salmon
    Mix the garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper, then season the salmon evenly.
  • Air fry the salmon
    Place the fillets in a single layer in the basket, skin side down if using skin-on salmon. Cook for 8 to 10 minutes, depending on thickness, until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
  • Check for doneness
    Make sure the salmon reaches your preferred doneness. For most fillets, 125°F to 145°F works depending on how you like it cooked.
  • Serve
    Serve immediately with lemon wedges, parsley, or garlic butter if desired.

Notes

  • Patting the salmon dry helps the seasoning stick better.
  • Do not overcrowd the basket or the salmon may cook unevenly.
  • Thicker fillets may need an extra 1 to 2 minutes.
  • Skin-on salmon works very well in the air fryer and is easy to remove after cooking if needed.
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