The Best Air Fryer Salmon Recipe (Under 10 Minutes!)

Name: Air Fryer Salmon
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 13 min
Ingredients: 4 6-oz salmon fillets; 2 tablespoons yellow mustard; 1 tsp garlic powder; ½ tsp paprika; salt and black pepper (to taste); olive oil; lemon wedges (for serving); fresh parsley (for garnish)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

This simple Air Fryer Salmon Recipe delivers restaurant-quality results in just 10 minutes! With a flavorful mustard coating and perfectly crispy exterior, this is hands-down the easiest way to cook salmon filets. No complicated ingredients needed – just 5 pantry staples for the most delicious weeknight dinner.

Salmon fillets in a table with fresh parsley and lemon wedges.

Table of Contents

Are you looking for a quick and easy weeknight dinner that could also be served as a fancy dish to serve guests? Cooking salmon in the air fryer is the perfect combination of healthy and delicious. As tasty as our Easy Baked Lemon Salmon, yet in a fraction of the time.

This Air Fryer Salmon recipe involves brushing yellow mustard over the salmon, then seasoning it with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. The salmon is then placed in the air fryer basket and cooked at 380 degrees for about 10 minutes and served with a squeeze of lemon juice.

The magic of this recipe is in the simplicity and the technique. Yellow mustard might seem like an odd choice, but it’s actually a game-changer for air fryer salmon. The mustard creates a protective coating that locks in moisture while allowing the exterior to crisp up beautifully. The acidity in the mustard also helps break down proteins slightly, making the salmon incredibly tender.

If you need another quick dinner recipe, try our Honey Garlic Pork Chops, which take 18 minutes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and effortless: From prep to plate in under 15 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you need dinner fast. If you want faster, try our 8-Minute Air Fryer Steak Bites.
Budget-friendly: You probably already have these simple ingredients in your pantry, and salmon goes on sale regularly at most grocery stores.
Foolproof results: The air fryer cooks salmon evenly every single time, so you won’t end up with dry, overcooked fish like you might in the oven. This perfect air fryer salmon has crispy skin and is super juicy and tender on the inside.
Healthy and protein-packed: Salmon is loaded with omega-3 fatty acids and protein, and this recipe uses minimal oil for a lighter meal.
Customizable: Easily adjust the seasoning to suit preference and taste.

Total Time: 15 minutes

Serves: 4

Ingredients and Notes

As always, the full ingredients and recipe is on the printable recipe card at the end of this post.

Ingredients on a table to make air fryer salmon.

Salmon Filets: This popular seafood item is healthy, low carb, and makes for such a delicious meal. Look for filets that are about 1 inch thick for even cooking. Skin-on or skinless both work perfectly in this recipe.
Yellow Mustard: You can also use olive oil, honey mustard, dijon mustard, sweet chili sauce, or mayo depending on the flavor you prefer.
Olive Oil: Just a light drizzle helps achieve that crispy, golden exterior we’re after.You can use avocado oil instead or your favorite cooking oil.
Garlic Powder: One of my favorite go-to seasonings! You can omit garlic powder if you don’t have it on hand.
Paprika: Gives a beautiful color and subtle smoky sweetness. I use regular paprika, but smoked paprika works too.You could use lemon pepper, Cajun seasoning or Old Bay seasoning as an alternative to paprika.
Salt and Black Pepper: Add these to taste.
Lemon Wedges and Parsley: For the best results, use these for garnish, as well as for serving.

A piece of salmon with a fork and a side of asparagus.

Recipe Variations

Dijon mustard instead of yellow: Swap yellow mustard for Dijon or whole grain mustard for a more sophisticated flavor. Both work equally well as a binder.
Different proteins: This same method works beautifully with cod, halibut, or even chicken breasts. Adjust cooking time based on thickness.
Spice it up: Add cayenne pepper, chili powder, or red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix for heat.
Herb additions: While not in the original recipe, dried herbs like dill, thyme, or Italian seasoning complement the mustard beautifully.
Lemon pepper version: Add lemon pepper seasoning along with the garlic powder for a citrusy twist.
Onion powder addition: Mix in some onion powder with the garlic powder for extra savory notes.
Avocado oil substitute: Swap olive oil for avocado oil if you prefer. Both have high smoke points suitable for air frying.
Honey mustard twist: Mix a tiny bit of honey into the mustard before applying for a sweet and tangy glaze. Or, try our Maple Salmon Recipe for a sweet twist.

How to Make Salmon in the Air Fryer

Glaze on uncooked salmon fillets on a table.

Step 1 – Pat your fresh salmon dry with a paper towel and then brush yellow mustard over the top of the salmon.

Seasoned glazed salmon fillets on a table.

Step 2 – Sprinkle garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper outside of the salmon.

Step 3 – Brush or spray the bottom of the air fryer basket with oil and then place the salmon in the air fryer basket If your salmon has skin, place skin down. Cook the filets in the air fryer at 380 degrees for 10 minutes.

Cooked salmon fillets in a table with fresh parsley on top.

Step 4 – Squeeze some lemon juice over the filets before serving and enjoy!

Tips for Success

Bring to room temperature: Take salmon out of the fridge 10-15 minutes before cooking for more even results.
Pat dry thoroughly: I know I mentioned this already, but it’s worth repeating because moisture is the enemy of crispiness.
Don’t overcrowd the basket: Air needs to circulate around the salmon for even cooking. Cook in batches if necessary.
Check thickness: Thicker filets (1.5 inches) may need an extra 2-3 minutes, while thinner pieces (0.75 inches) might be done in 6 minutes.
Line with parchment: Air fryer parchment paper with holes makes cleanup even easier and prevents any sticking, though the mustard usually does a great job on its own.
Don’t flip: There’s no need to flip the salmon halfway through. Let it cook undisturbed for the best crust.
Adjust cook time for preferences: If you like your salmon more on the medium-rare side, pull it at 125-130°F. It will continue cooking as it rests.
Use a meat thermometer: The most accurate way to check doneness is with an instant-read thermometer. You want an internal temperature of 145°F in the thickest part.

Salmon in an air fryer basket with slices of lemon.

What to Serve with Air Fryer Salmon

This flaky air fryer salmon pairs wonderfully with so many sides. Here are my favorites:

Roasted vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or brussels sprouts with feta make a complete meal in under 20 minutes.
Rice pilaf or quinoa soaks up any juices from the salmon and adds substance to your plate.
A simple green salad with vinaigrette keeps things light and fresh.
Creamy mashed potatoes or sweet potatoes if you want something more comforting.
Roasted green beans and air fryer asparagus are quick and complement the salmon perfectly.
Greek pasta salad for a Mediterranean-inspired dinner.
Roasted baby potatoes seasoned with herbs and olive oil.

Storage and Reheating

To store: Allow the salmon to cool to room temperature then place in an airtight container or ziploc bag. You can store it in the fridge for up to 4 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.

To reheat your leftover salmon, place it on parchment paper in the air fryer and cook it for about 5 minutes until it’s heated through.

Meal prep: You can prep the salmon filets with the mustard and seasonings up to 24 hours ahead. Keep them covered in the refrigerator, then air fry when ready to eat.

Cold salmon: Leftover salmon doesn’t have to be reheated to be enjoyed. It is delicious cold on top of salads like a Cobb salad, or in a salmon bowl. You can also use the leftovers to make salmon tacos.

A fork taking a piece of salmon off a white plate with asparagus beside it.

Recipe FAQ

Does salmon go skin-side down in the air fryer?

Yes, placing the salmon skin side down is the best way to place it in the air fryer.

Can I use mayo instead of mustard for this air fry salmon?

Absolutely! You can totally use mayo instead of oil for this recipe.

Do I need to flip the salmon halfway through the cooking time?

No, you do not need to flip the salmon halfway through the cooking time because the hot air of the air fryer circulates around the salmon.

Can I cook frozen salmon in the air fryer?

For best results, thaw your salmon completely before air frying. Frozen salmon will release too much moisture and won’t get that nice crispy exterior. If you’re in a pinch, you can cook from frozen but add 5-7 minutes to the cook time and expect a different texture.

Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a family, this easy air fryer recipe scales easily and comes together faster than ordering takeout. Plus, you’ll feel good about eating a healthy dinner and homemade meal that didn’t require you to slave over the stove for an hour.

More Air Fryer Recipes

If you’ve tried this French Onion Meatballs or any other recipe on my blog please let me know how it went in the comments below. I love hearing from you. Finally, consider leaving a 🌟 star rating while you’re here. Thanks!

Cooked salmon fillets in an air fryer with lemon wedges.

Air Fryer Salmon

This air fryer salmon recipe is quick, easy, delicious, and healthy. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special guests.

5 from 1 vote

Print Pin

Prep Time: 5

Cook Time: 8

Total Time: 13

Servings:

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Author: Tammi

Ingredients

4 6-oz salmon fillets
2 tablespoons yellow mustard
1 tsp garlic powder
½ tsp paprika
salt and black pepper (to taste)
olive oil
lemon wedges (for serving)
fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

Pat your fresh salmon dry with a paper towel and then brush yellow mustard over the top of the salmon.
Sprinkle garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper outside of the salmon.
Brush or spray the bottom of the air fryer basket with oil and then place the salmon inside. Cook the filets in the air fryer at 380 degrees for 10 minutes.
Squeeze some lemon juice over the filets before serving and enjoy!

Notes

This easy air fryer salmon recipe pairs well with rice, a salad, air fryer asparagus, broccoli, zucchini, carrots, cauliflower rice, and more!

Storage – Before storing it, let it cool to room temperature then place it in an airtight container or ziploc bag. You can store it in the fridge for up to 4 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating – To reheat your leftover salmon, place it on parchment paper in the air fryer and cook it for about 5 minutes until it’s heated through.

Tried this recipe?Tag @MyOrganizedChaosBlog so I can share!