Ridiculously 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
Scale
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
