This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. I also earn from Instacart affiliate links. This does not affect my recipe testing or recommendations.
Air Fryer Lemon Herb Salmon
Flaky, perfectly cooked salmon with a golden herb crust — a 12-minute weeknight dinner.
Total Time
13 min
Difficulty
Easy
Servings
2
Calories
380 cal
Why This Works
The air fryer creates a convection effect that crisps the top of the salmon while keeping the interior moist. Unlike pan-searing, you don't need to flip the fish, which means the delicate fillet stays intact. The high heat also caramelizes the lemon juice and herbs into a beautiful golden crust.
My Recipe Testing Notes
Salmon thickness matters enormously. For a standard 1-inch thick fillet, 400°F for 8-10 minutes is perfect. I tested thinner fillets (3/4 inch) and they were overcooked at the 8-minute mark — pull those at 7 minutes. The key indicator is when the top turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork, but the center still has a slight translucency. Residual heat will finish the cooking.
Ingredients
Skin-on recommended for easier removal from basket
Instructions
Pat salmon fillets dry and place skin-side down in the air fryer basket.
Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice. Sprinkle with minced garlic, 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. The residual heat will continue cooking the center to perfection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I remove the skin?
I recommend leaving it on during cooking — it acts as a natural barrier between the fish and the basket, preventing sticking. You can easily peel it off after cooking if you prefer.
How do I know when it's done?
The salmon should reach an internal temperature of 145°F. 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 this way?
Yes! Add 3-4 extra minutes and start at 380°F for the first 5 minutes, then increase to 400°F. Season after the first 5 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.
Read more about Sarah →
