Ridiculously Good Air Fryer Salmon Recipe
Introduction
This Ridiculously Good Air Fryer Salmon recipe delivers perfectly cooked, flavorful salmon cubes that are golden on the outside and tender inside. Using a simple spice blend and quick air frying, this dish is ready in minutes and ideal for a healthy weeknight meal.
Ingredients
- 1 lb. salmon (skin removed)
- 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)
- 2-3 teaspoons avocado or olive oil
Instructions
- Step 1: Remove the skin from your salmon, if it has skin. Pat the salmon dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Cut the salmon into 1 to 2-inch cubes.
- Step 2: In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, paprika, smoked paprika, chili powder, onion powder, garlic powder, cornstarch, and salt to create the spice blend.
- Step 3: Toss the salmon cubes with the spice mixture and the oil. Use your hands to ensure each piece is evenly coated.
- Step 4: Place the salmon in the air fryer basket, spreading the pieces out so they are not stacked or overcrowded.
- Step 5: Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 8 minutes, until the outside is golden and the inside is juicy and flaky. For medium doneness, cook 6-7 minutes.
- Step 6: Carefully remove the salmon and serve immediately, enjoying the buttery texture and flavorful crust.
Tips & Variations
- Use fresh, wild-caught salmon for the best flavor and texture.
- If you prefer skin-on salmon, leave the skin on and air fry skin-side down for a crispier texture.
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like dill or parsley before serving for extra brightness.
- Adjust the chili powder amount to control the heat level according to your taste.
Storage
Store leftover cooked salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm gently in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes to maintain texture without drying out.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
It’s best to use fresh or fully thawed salmon to ensure even cooking. If using frozen salmon, thaw completely and pat dry before seasoning.
Do I need to flip the salmon during air frying?
No flipping is necessary. The air fryer circulates hot air evenly, so the salmon cooks well on all sides without turning.
PrintRidiculously Good Air Fryer Salmon Recipe
This Ridiculously Good Air Fryer Salmon recipe offers a quick and flavorful way to prepare salmon cubes with a smoky, slightly spicy dry rub. Air frying results in a perfectly cooked, juicy interior with a golden, slightly crispy exterior, making it an easy and delicious meal option.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
Salmon
- 1 lb. salmon (skin removed)
Spices
- 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 flesh dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Cut the salmon into 1 to 2-inch cubes to ensure even cooking.
- Mix the Spices: In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, paprika, smoked paprika, chili powder, onion powder, garlic powder, cornstarch, and salt to create a dry spice rub.
- Toss Salmon with Spices and Oil: Place the salmon cubes in a mixing bowl and drizzle with 2-3 teaspoons of avocado or olive oil. Add the mixed spices and use your hands to thoroughly coat each piece evenly.
- Air Fry the Salmon: Spread the seasoned salmon cubes in the air fryer basket so they are not overlapping. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 8 minutes. For a slightly less cooked, medium doneness, reduce the time to 6-7 minutes.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once cooked, the salmon should have a golden exterior with a juicy, flaky texture inside. Test by gently pressing with a fork; the fish should easily flake apart. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Removing the skin ensures better spice adherence but is optional depending on preference.
- Cornstarch in the spice mix helps create a slightly crispy exterior during air frying.
- You can substitute avocado oil with olive oil, but avocado oil has a higher smoke point suitable for air frying.
- Adjust spice quantities to taste, especially the chili powder if you prefer milder heat.
- Cooking times may vary slightly depending on your air fryer model; monitor to avoid overcooking.
Keywords: air fryer salmon, easy salmon recipe, healthy salmon, crispy salmon, quick dinner, spicy salmon
