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Best Easy Crispy Air Fryer Salmon with Lemon Butter Sauce

crispy air fryer salmon - featured image
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This crispy air fryer salmon with lemon butter sauce is a quick and easy weeknight meal that feels fancy but comes together in under 20 minutes. The air fryer creates a shatteringly crisp exterior while the lemon butter sauce adds a glossy, tangy finish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each, skin-on)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt to taste

Instructions

  1. Pat the salmon dry with paper towels on both sides until the surface feels tacky-dry. Let sit at room temperature for 10 minutes.
  2. Optional: Score the skin by making shallow cuts about 1 inch apart, being careful not to cut into the flesh.
  3. In a small bowl, mix garlic powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne (if using). Brush salmon fillets lightly with olive oil, then sprinkle seasoning evenly over both sides.
  4. Preheat air fryer to 390°F (200°C) for about 3 minutes.
  5. Place salmon fillets skin-side down in the air fryer basket in a single layer with space between each fillet.
  6. Air fry at 390°F (200°C) for 8 to 10 minutes (9 minutes for 1-inch thick fillets). Do not flip. Salmon is done when it flakes easily and internal temperature reaches 125°F to 130°F (52°C to 54°C) for medium.
  7. While salmon cooks, make the lemon butter sauce: In a small saucepan over low heat, melt butter. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt. Remove from heat and stir in chopped parsley.
  8. Let salmon rest for 2 to 3 minutes after cooking.
  9. Serve salmon with lemon butter sauce spooned over or on the side.

Notes

Patting the salmon dry is crucial for crispy skin. Do not flip the salmon during cooking. Serve sauce on the side to keep skin crispy. For best results, use an instant-read thermometer to avoid overcooking.

Nutrition

Keywords: air fryer salmon, crispy salmon, lemon butter sauce, quick salmon recipe, weeknight dinner, healthy salmon

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