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Ultimate Crispy Air Fryer Salmon with Lemon Garlic Butter

A close-up of a juicy, glazed air fryer salmon fillet resting on a white plate.
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You will make perfectly crispy on the outside and flaky, juicy on the inside salmon fillets using your air fryer. This easy recipe is ready fast for a healthy weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 (6-ounce) salmon fillets, skin on or off
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Pat the salmon fillets completely dry using paper towels. This step is key for achieving crispy skin or a crisp exterior.
  2. In a small bowl, mix together the salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Rub the olive oil over all sides of the salmon fillets, then sprinkle the spice mixture evenly over the fish.
  3. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). If you are cooking multiple fillets, work in batches to avoid overcrowding the basket.
  4. Place the seasoned salmon fillets in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
  5. Air fry for 10 to 12 minutes. The exact time depends on the thickness of your fillets. You are looking for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption and a flaky texture.
  6. While the salmon cooks, prepare the lemon garlic butter. In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, minced garlic, and lemon juice.
  7. Once the salmon is cooked, carefully remove the fillets from the air fryer.
  8. Brush the lemon garlic butter mixture generously over the top of each hot salmon fillet.
  9. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving immediately.

Notes

  • For the best results when cooking salmon in an air fryer, do not skip drying the fish thoroughly. Excess moisture prevents crisping.
  • If your fillets are very thick (over 1 inch), you may need to reduce the temperature slightly to 380°F (195°C) and cook for 13-15 minutes to cook through without burning the outside.
  • This recipe works well for making salmon bites; cut the fillets into 1-inch cubes, toss with oil and seasoning, and air fry for 7-9 minutes.

Nutrition

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