Air Fryer Honey Garlic Salmon

Introduction

Craving a healthy, quick, and flavorful dinner? This Air Fryer Honey Garlic Salmon delivers perfectly cooked fillets with crispy edges and a sticky-sweet glaze in under 20 minutes. It’s ideal for busy weeknights or impressing guests with minimal effort.

Ingredients List

4 salmon fillets (skin-on or off, about 6 oz each)
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tbsp olive oil

For the Honey Garlic Sauce:

1/4 cup honey
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp lemon juice
2 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 tsp grated ginger (optional for added depth)

Timing

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10–12 minutes
Total Time: 15–17 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep the salmon

Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper. Lightly brush with olive oil.

Step 2: Preheat the air fryer

Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 2–3 minutes.

Step 3: Cook the salmon

Place salmon skin-side down in the air fryer basket. Cook for 7–9 minutes depending on thickness, or until the internal temperature reaches 125–130°F (52–54°C).

Step 4: Make the sauce

While salmon cooks, combine honey, soy sauce, lemon juice, garlic, and ginger in a small saucepan. Simmer over medium heat for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 5: Glaze and finish

Brush warm honey garlic sauce over the cooked salmon. Return to the air fryer for 1–2 minutes to caramelize.

Step 6: Serve

Serve hot with rice, quinoa, or steamed vegetables. Drizzle extra sauce over the top.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Makes 4)

Calories: 330 kcal
Fat: 16g
Carbs: 18g
Protein: 30g

Healthier Alternatives

Use low-sodium soy sauce
Swap honey for maple syrup or agave nectar
Serve with cauliflower rice for a low-carb option

Serving Suggestions

Plate over jasmine rice with sautéed greens
Add sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish
Pair with roasted sweet potatoes and a lemon wedge

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the salmon: Leads to dryness—use a meat thermometer
Skipping preheat: Air fryer needs to be hot for crisp edges
Not drying the salmon: Prevents a good sear

Storing Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days
Reheat gently in the microwave or air fryer at 325°F for 3–4 minutes
Sauce can be made ahead and stored separately

Conclusion

This Air Fryer Honey Garlic Salmon is sweet, savory, and melts in your mouth with every bite. Easy to make, healthy, and loaded with flavor—what more could you want?

Give it a go and let us know how you served it! Subscribe for more quick, delicious air fryer recipes.