This Air Fryer honey garlic salmon is everything you want in a quick and healthy dinner—crispy on the outside, tender and flaky on the inside, and coated in a sticky, sweet, and garlicky glaze. The air fryer makes it super easy to cook salmon perfectly every time, with minimal cleanup. Whether you’re looking for a light weeknight dinner or a show-stopping dish for guests, this recipe will be your new go-to!
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Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Honey Garlic Salmon
- Perfectly Cooked Every Time: The air fryer gives the salmon a crispy exterior while keeping it moist inside.
- Simple Ingredients: Pantry staples come together to create an amazing honey garlic glaze.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 15 minutes for a hassle-free dinner.
- Healthy and Flavorful: Packed with omega-3s and natural sweetness from the honey.
- Minimal Cleanup: No need to flip or babysit—just set it and let the air fryer do the work.
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets (about 150g / 5 oz each)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Honey Garlic Glaze
- ¼ cup (60ml) honey
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- ½ tsp chili flakes (optional, for heat)
Directions
- Preheat the Air Fryer:
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3-5 minutes. - Prepare the Salmon:
Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Brush each fillet with olive oil and season with salt and pepper on both sides. - Make the Honey Garlic Glaze:
In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, lemon juice, and chili flakes (if using). - Air Fry the Salmon:
Place the seasoned salmon fillets skin-side down in the air fryer basket. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 7-9 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets. No need to flip! - Glaze the Salmon:
In the final 2 minutes of cooking, brush the tops of the salmon fillets generously with the honey garlic glaze. Air fry for the remaining time until the salmon is fully cooked and the glaze is caramelized. - Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the salmon from the air fryer and drizzle with any remaining glaze. Serve hot with rice, vegetables, or a side salad.
Notes
- Check for Doneness: Salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Adjust Cooking Time: Thinner fillets may only need 6-7 minutes, while thicker ones might take up to 10 minutes.
- No Air Fryer? Bake in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes instead.
- Storage Tip: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes to restore crispiness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes! Just thaw the salmon before air frying for the best texture and even cooking.
What other seasonings work well?
Feel free to add smoked paprika, garlic powder, or lemon zest to the seasoning for extra flavor.
Can I use skinless salmon?
Absolutely! Skinless fillets work just as well—just make sure to grease the air fryer basket to prevent sticking.
What side dishes pair well with this salmon?
Rice, quinoa, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad make excellent sides for this dish.
How do I keep the salmon from drying out?
Make sure not to overcook the salmon. Start checking for doneness at the 7-minute mark.
Tips and Notes
- My Tip: If you love a sticky glaze, reserve a bit of the honey garlic mixture to drizzle over the salmon right before serving.
- Pro Trick: Line the air fryer basket with parchment paper for easier cleanup.
- Serving Suggestion: Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for a pop of color and flavor.
Variations
- Spicy Honey Garlic Salmon: Add extra chili flakes or sriracha to the glaze for more heat.
- Maple Garlic Salmon: Swap honey with maple syrup for a deeper sweetness.
- Teriyaki-Style Salmon: Use teriyaki sauce instead of soy sauce for a Japanese-inspired twist.
- Lemon Herb Salmon: Add fresh thyme or rosemary along with the lemon juice for a herbaceous flavor.
- Salmon Tacos: Flake the cooked salmon and serve it in tortillas with slaw and avocado for a fun taco night!
