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Crispy Garlic Butter Air Fryer Salmon

Close-up of a beautifully seasoned and cooked piece of air fryer salmon resting in butter sauce on a white plate.

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Cook salmon fillets in your air fryer for a quick, healthy weeknight dinner. This recipe yields crispy skin and a juicy, flaky interior using a simple garlic butter seasoning.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 (6 ounce) salmon fillets, skin on or off
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)

Instructions

  1. Pat the salmon fillets dry using paper towels. This helps achieve crispy skin.
  2. In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with the minced garlic.
  3. Brush the tops and sides of the salmon fillets with olive oil.
  4. In another small bowl, combine the salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Sprinkle this seasoning mix evenly over the salmon fillets.
  5. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes.
  6. Place the seasoned salmon fillets in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring there is space between them.
  7. Air fry for 8 minutes.
  8. Brush the tops of the salmon with the garlic butter mixture.
  9. Continue to air fry for another 2 to 4 minutes, or until the salmon reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and flakes easily with a fork. Total cook time is usually 10-12 minutes.
  10. Remove from the air fryer, garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve immediately.

Notes

  • For extra crispy skin, place the salmon skin-side down first and cook for 8 minutes before flipping or basting.
  • If your fillets are very thick, you may need to add 1-2 minutes to the total cook time.
  • This recipe is excellent for low carb air fryer fish meals.

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