Description
This Ridiculously Good Air Fryer Salmon recipe delivers tender, juicy salmon cubes with a perfectly seasoned, crispy exterior using a simple spice blend and quick air frying method. Ready in minutes, it’s an easy, healthy, and flavorful way to enjoy salmon with minimal prep and cleanup.
Ingredients
Scale
Salmon
- 1 lb. salmon, skin removed, cut into 1–2 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)
Oil
- 2–3 teaspoons avocado or olive oil
Instructions
- Prep the salmon: Remove the skin from your salmon if it has skin. Pat the salmon cubes dry with paper towels to remove moisture, ensuring a crispy finish during air frying. Cut the salmon into 1 to 2 inch cubes for even cooking.
- Prep the spices: In a small bowl, thoroughly mix together the brown sugar, paprika, smoked paprika, chili powder, onion powder, garlic powder, cornstarch, and salt to create the spice blend.
- Toss salmon with spices: Add the salmon cubes to the bowl with the spice mixture, then drizzle with 2 to 3 teaspoons of avocado or olive oil. Use your hands or a spoon to toss everything together, making sure each piece is evenly coated with the spices and oil.
- Air fry the salmon: Place the seasoned salmon cubes into the air fryer basket in a single layer, spreading them out to avoid overcrowding. Set the air fryer to 400°F (204°C) and cook for 8 minutes. For a less done, slightly medium interior, cook for 6-7 minutes instead.
- You’re done! Enjoy: The salmon should be golden and textured on the outside with a juicy, tender interior that flakes easily with a fork. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Removing the skin ensures even spice coating and crispiness.
- Patting the salmon dry reduces excess moisture and promotes a crispy exterior.
- Cornstarch in the spice mix helps achieve a light crunch.
- Adjust cooking time to preference: 6-7 minutes for medium doneness, 8 minutes for well done.
- Use avocado or olive oil for a healthy fat option.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Air Fryer Salmon, Easy Salmon Recipe, Healthy Salmon, Quick Dinner, Crispy Salmon Cubes
