Air Fryer Honey Garlic Salmon
Tender salmon fillets cooked in the air fryer with a sticky honey garlic glaze. This foolproof method delivers perfectly cooked salmon with minimal cleanup and maximum flavor. The air fryer creates a beautiful caramelized exterior while keeping the inside moist and tender, making this the ultimate weeknight dinner solution.
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce or coconut aminos
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Whisk together the soy sauce, honey, minced garlic and olive oil. Season the salmon with salt and pepper and pour the sauce over. Let marinate for 10 minutes.
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the salmon fillets in the basket, skin‑side down.
- Air fry for 10–12 minutes until the salmon is opaque and flakes easily, brushing with extra sauce halfway through.
- Serve immediately with lemon wedges.
Equipment Needed
- Air fryer (3.5-quart or larger)
- Small mixing bowl
- Whisk or fork
- Basting brush
- Tongs or spatula
Tips & Variations
- Don't overcrowd: Leave space between fillets in the air fryer basket for proper air circulation and even cooking.
- Line the basket: Use parchment paper designed for air fryers to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Thickness matters: Thin fillets (1 inch) need 8-10 minutes; thick fillets (1.5 inches) need 12-14 minutes at 400°F.
- Check temperature: Salmon is done at 145°F (63°C) internal temperature, or when it flakes easily with a fork.
- Add sesame: Sprinkle with sesame seeds and sliced green onions for an Asian-inspired finish.
- Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes or sriracha to the honey garlic sauce for a sweet and spicy kick.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (1 fillet):
- Calories: 295
- Protein: 32g
- Fat: 12g (Saturated: 2g)
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 0g
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: 2.1g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Sugar: 12g
High in protein and omega-3 fatty acids. The air fryer method uses minimal oil, making this a lighter option than pan-frying.
Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The honey garlic glaze keeps the salmon moist.
Freezer: Freeze cooked salmon for up to 2 months in a freezer-safe container. The glaze freezes well.
Reheating: Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-4 minutes to restore crispness. You can also reheat in a 300°F oven for 8-10 minutes. Avoid microwaving if possible as it can make the glaze sticky.
Meal prep: This salmon is excellent for meal prep. Cook multiple batches and portion with vegetables and rice for easy grab-and-go lunches.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your air fryer honey garlic salmon with:
- Vegetables: Air-fried broccoli, green beans, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts
- Starches: Jasmine rice, quinoa, cauliflower rice, or roasted sweet potatoes
- Salads: Asian slaw, cucumber salad, or mixed greens
- Noodles: Rice noodles, lo mein, or soba noodles
- Sides: Steamed edamame, stir-fried vegetables, or egg fried rice
Recipe Notes
Air fryer variations: Different air fryer models vary in cooking times and temperatures. Check your salmon a few minutes early the first time.
Pat dry: Always pat salmon dry before seasoning to ensure the glaze adheres properly and creates better caramelization.
Skin on or off: Both work well. Skin-on is easier to remove after cooking and helps protect the flesh from overcooking.
Honey substitute: Use maple syrup or agave nectar as alternatives to honey for different flavor profiles.
Batch cooking: If your air fryer is small, cook in batches rather than overcrowding. Keep cooked salmon warm in a 200°F oven.
Glaze timing: Brush with sauce halfway through cooking and again at the end for maximum flavor and shine.