Print

Ultimate Crispy & Juicy Air Fryer Salmon with Lemon Garlic Butter

A close-up of a glistening, cooked fillet of air fryer salmon topped with minced garlic and fresh parsley, resting in butter sauce.

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Create restaurant-quality salmon with a crispy exterior and juicy interior in under 15 minutes using your air fryer. This simple Lemon Garlic Butter recipe is perfect for quick, healthy weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

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

Instructions

  1. Pat the salmon fillets completely dry using paper towels. This step helps you achieve a crispy exterior.
  2. In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Sprinkle this seasoning mix evenly over both sides of the salmon fillets.
  3. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes.
  4. Lightly brush the air fryer basket with a little oil or spray it lightly. Place the seasoned salmon fillets in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they do not touch.
  5. Air fry the salmon for 10 to 12 minutes. The exact time depends on the thickness of your fillets. For thicker fillets, start checking at 10 minutes. You want the internal temperature to reach 145°F (63°C).
  6. While the salmon cooks, prepare the butter sauce: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, and chopped parsley. Stir well.
  7. Once the salmon is cooked, carefully remove the fillets from the air fryer basket.
  8. Brush the lemon garlic butter mixture generously over the top of each hot salmon fillet.
  9. Serve your juicy air fryer salmon immediately with your favorite sides for a fast dinner idea.

Notes

  • For extra crispy skin, place the salmon skin-side down for the first 8 minutes, then flip for the last 2-4 minutes if you prefer the top slightly browned.
  • If you are cooking from frozen, add 4 to 6 minutes to the total cook time, but ensure the internal temperature is safe before serving.
  • This recipe works well for meal prep; store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Nutrition