Air Fryer Salmon Recipe

Quick and flavorful air fryer salmon that's crisp on the outside and tender inside.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5

Cook Time 10

Total Time 15

Servings: 2 servings

2 6-ounce salmon fillets about 1 to 1 1/2 inches thick; total 2 fillets
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
salt to taste; recipe suggests 1/2 teaspoon for seasoning blend
freshly ground black pepper to taste; recipe suggests 1/4 teaspoon for seasoning blend

Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (around 193°C).
Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels and place them skin-side down on a plate or cutting board.
In a small bowl, combine 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper.
Drizzle the fillets with 1 tablespoon olive oil, then sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over all sides, pressing gently to adhere.
Lightly spray or brush the air fryer basket with cooking spray and place the fillets in the basket skin-side down, leaving space between them for air circulation.
Air fry at 380°F for 8 to 10 minutes, flipping once halfway through, until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and reaches 145°F in the thickest part.
Remove the fillets from the air fryer and let rest briefly before serving.

If using skin-on salmon, score the skin 2–3 times about 1 inch apart without cutting into the flesh.
Start fillets skin-side down in the air fryer basket for best results.
Use fillets of similar size to ensure even cooking.
Thaw frozen salmon overnight in the refrigerator.
To quickly thaw frozen fish, place it in a sealed bag under cool running water for 20–30 minutes.