Description

This Ridiculously Good Air Fryer Salmon recipe delivers perfectly cooked, juicy salmon with a crispy, golden exterior using a simple spice blend and the convenience of an air fryer. Ideal for a quick, healthy meal, the salmon is cut into bite-sized pieces, tossed with flavorful spices, and air fried to perfection in just minutes.

Ingredients

Scale

Salmon

1 lb. salmon, skin removed

Spice Mix

1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon cornstarch
3/4 teaspoon coarse kosher salt (or 1/2 teaspoon table salt)

Other

2–3 teaspoons avocado or olive oil

Instructions

Prep the salmon: Remove the skin from the salmon if present. Pat the salmon dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Cut the salmon into 1 to 2-inch cubes for even cooking.
Prep the spices: In a small bowl, thoroughly mix together the brown sugar, paprika, smoked paprika, chili powder, onion powder, garlic powder, cornstarch, and salt to create the spice blend.
Toss salmon with spices: Place the salmon cubes in a bowl and add the spice mixture along with 2 to 3 teaspoons of avocado or olive oil. Using your hands, gently toss to evenly coat all pieces with the seasoning and oil.
Air fry the salmon: Place the seasoned salmon cubes directly in the air fryer basket. Spread them out slightly to avoid overcrowding. Set the air fryer to 400°F (204°C) and cook for 8 minutes.
Check doneness and serve: Once cooked, the salmon should have a golden, slightly crispy exterior and be juicy inside. It should flake easily with a fork. If you prefer medium doneness, reduce cooking time to 6-7 minutes. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

Removing the skin helps the salmon pieces cook evenly and crisp up better in the air fryer.
Patting the salmon dry before seasoning ensures the spice mixture sticks well and the exterior crisps nicely.
If you like your salmon less done, reduce air frying time to 6-7 minutes.
Use avocado or olive oil for a healthy fat option and better flavor.
Make sure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket to allow hot air to circulate properly for even cooking.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 8 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Air Frying
Cuisine: American

Keywords: air fryer salmon, easy salmon recipe, crispy salmon, healthy salmon, quick dinner, spice rub salmon