Easy Air Fryer Salmon (5 Ingredients)

Closeup of cooked salmon in the air fryer.

4.62 from 47 votes

My air fryer salmon comes out with crispy skin and a flaky center. I pat the fillets dry, brush them with olive oil, and season with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper, then air fry at 400°F degrees until the thickest part hits 145°F. It's 5 ingredients plus salt and pepper, and the high heat gives a lightly crisp top without drying out the fish.

Prep Time5

Cook Time10

Total Time15

Course: Air Fryer Recipes

Cuisine: American

Servings: servings

Calories: 310kcal

Author: Samantha Erb

Equipment

Ingredients

4 (6-ounce) salmon fillets skin-on recommended
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

Preheat the air fryer to 400°F and pat the fillets dry using a paper towel.
In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Brush the salmon fillets evenly with the oil, then sprinkle the spice mixture over the top, coating them completely.
Place the salmon skin-side down in the air fryer basket or tray in a single layer with spacing between each fillet.
Air fry the salmon for 10-12 minutes. The salmon is ready when it flakes easily with a fork, and the thickest part reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Notes

This cooking time is for 6-ounce 1-inch thick fillets. Thinner fillets will cook in about 8 minutes, while thicker pieces will need a few extra minutes.

For extra crispy skin, flip the salmon skin-side up for the last 3-4 minutes.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheat leftovers in a preheated air fryer at 370°F skin-side down for about 4 minutes, until it's heated all the way through.

Nutrition