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Best Damn Air Fryer Salmon: Crispy and Juicy

A close-up of a perfectly cooked, seasoned fillet of air fryer salmon resting on a white plate.
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Make the best air fryer salmon with a crispy exterior and tender, flaky interior. This easy recipe is perfect for a quick, healthy weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 (6 ounce) salmon fillets, skin on or off
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 lemon, sliced (for serving)

Instructions

  1. Pat the salmon fillets completely dry using paper towels. This step helps achieve a crispy exterior.
  2. In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
  3. Brush the tops and sides of the salmon fillets lightly with olive oil.
  4. Sprinkle the spice mixture evenly over the top surface of each salmon fillet. Press the seasoning gently so it adheres.
  5. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes.
  6. Place the seasoned salmon fillets in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring there is space between them for air circulation.
  7. Air fry for 10 to 12 minutes. Cooking time depends on the thickness of your fillets. For thinner fillets, check at 10 minutes. For thicker fillets, cook closer to 12 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
  8. Remove the salmon from the air fryer. Serve immediately with a slice of fresh lemon.

Notes

  • For extra crispy skin, place the salmon skin-side down first and cook for 8 minutes, then flip and cook for 2-4 more minutes.
  • If you prefer a different flavor, substitute the spice blend with 1 teaspoon of your favorite dry rub or a drizzle of honey garlic sauce before cooking.
  • This recipe works well for a quick seafood recipe or a healthy fish recipe.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://juliameal.com/air-fryer-salmon-recipe-crispy-and-juicy/