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Air Fryer Salmon Fillet (Perfect Every Time)
Flaky, perfectly cooked salmon with a golden crust in just 10 minutes — the easiest weeknight dinner.
Total Time
13 min
Difficulty
Easy
Servings
2
Calories
380 cal
Why This Works
The air fryer's convection heat crisps the top of the salmon while keeping the interior moist. Unlike pan-searing, you don't need to flip the delicate fillet, which means it stays intact. The high heat caramelizes the natural sugars in the salmon for a beautiful golden finish.
My Recipe Testing Notes
The air fryer salmon temperature debate is real. I tested 375°F, 390°F, and 400°F. At 375°F, the salmon was perfectly cooked but lacked the golden crust. At 400°F for 8-10 minutes, you get both: a beautiful golden top and perfectly flaky interior. The key visual cue: the salmon is done when it turns opaque on the sides and flakes easily at the thickest point, but the very center still has a slight translucency. Residual heat finishes the cooking.
Ingredients
Skin-on recommended for easier removal from basket
Optional — adds depth
Instructions
Pat salmon fillets dry and place skin-side down in the air fryer basket.
Mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and Dijon mustard. Brush over the top of each fillet.
Sprinkle with fresh dill, salt, and pepper.
Air fry at 400°F for 8-10 minutes. The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork.
Let rest for 2 minutes before serving. Garnish with lemon slices and fresh herbs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What temperature for air fryer salmon?
400°F is the sweet spot for air fryer salmon. It creates a golden crust while keeping the interior flaky and moist. Cook for 8-10 minutes depending on thickness — 1-inch fillets take 10 minutes, thinner fillets take 7-8 minutes.
How do I know when salmon is done in the air fryer?
The salmon should reach 145°F internal temperature. Visually, the top should be opaque and flake easily, while the very center can still be slightly translucent — it will finish cooking from residual heat.
Can I cook frozen salmon in the air fryer?
Yes! Cook frozen salmon at 390°F for 14-16 minutes. Season after the first 7 minutes when the surface has thawed enough for seasonings to stick.
Written by Sarah Jenkins
Former restaurant line cook turned home kitchen obsessive. I've tested over 200 air fryer recipes and I share exactly what works, what doesn't, and the temperatures that make the difference.
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