Introduction

This Ridiculously Good Air Fryer Salmon recipe delivers perfectly cooked, flavorful salmon in just minutes. With a smoky, spicy rub and a juicy, flaky interior, it’s an easy way to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home.

Ridiculously Good Air Fryer Salmon Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients

1 lb. salmon (skin removed if desired)
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 for even cooking.
Step 2: In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, paprika, smoked paprika, chili powder, onion powder, garlic powder, cornstarch, and salt.
Step 3: Toss the salmon cubes with the spice mixture and oil, using your hands to ensure each piece is well coated.
Step 4: Place the seasoned salmon cubes in the air fryer basket, spreading them out so they are not touching or overlapping.
Step 5: Air fry at 400°F for 8 minutes. The outside should be golden and slightly crisp while the inside remains juicy and flaky. For a medium doneness, reduce the cooking time to 6-7 minutes.

Tips & Variations

For added flavor, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the salmon just before serving.
Try swapping avocado oil for olive oil to add a subtle fruity note.
If you prefer skin-on salmon, you can air fry with the skin side down and increase cooking time slightly.
Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or over a fresh salad for a light meal.

Storage

Store cooked salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm gently in an air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes or until heated through to maintain its texture and flavor.

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 for even cooking. If using frozen, thaw completely and pat dry before seasoning and air frying.

What if I don’t have an air fryer?

You can bake the salmon cubes in a preheated oven at 400°F for about 10-12 minutes, but the air fryer will give you a crispier outside texture.

Ridiculously Good Air Fryer Salmon Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 101 reviews

This Ridiculously Good Air Fryer Salmon recipe delivers perfectly cooked, flavorful salmon cubes with a delightful golden crust and juicy interior. Seasoned with a blend of smoky and spicy spices, then air fried to perfection, this dish is quick, easy, and healthy—ideal for a nutritious weeknight dinner.

Author: Cleo
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 8 minutes
Total Time: 18 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Seafood
Method: Air Frying
Cuisine: American
Diet: Low Fat

Ingredients

Scale

Salmon

1 lb. salmon, skin removed and cut into 1 to 2 inch cubes

Spice Mix

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)

Additional Ingredients

2–3 teaspoons avocado or olive oil

Instructions

Prep the salmon: Remove the skin from the salmon if it has any. Pat the salmon cubes dry with paper towels to ensure the surface is mostly dry. Cut the salmon into 1 to 2 inch cubes for even cooking.
Prep the spices: In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, paprika, smoked paprika, chili powder, onion powder, garlic powder, cornstarch, and salt. Mix thoroughly to create a uniform spice blend.
Toss salmon with spices: Add the salmon cubes to the spice mixture along with the avocado or olive oil. Use your hands to toss and coat the salmon evenly with the spices and oil for full flavor coverage.
Air fry the salmon: Place the seasoned salmon cubes in the air fryer basket, spreading them out so they are not piled on top of each other. Air fry at 400°F (204°C) for 8 minutes to achieve a golden crust and juicy interior. For a slightly less done texture, cook for 6-7 minutes.
Serve and enjoy: Once cooked, the salmon should flake easily with a fork and have a buttery, juicy texture inside. Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.

Notes

Removing the skin is recommended to ensure even cooking and spice coating.
Patting the salmon dry helps achieve a better crust during air frying.
Adjust cooking time slightly if your salmon pieces are thicker or thinner to avoid overcooking.
You can substitute avocado oil with olive oil for a different flavor profile.
If you prefer your salmon medium cooked, reduce air fry time to 6-7 minutes.

Keywords: Air fryer salmon, easy salmon recipe, healthy salmon, quick seafood, crispy salmon cubes