Air Fryer Honey Garlic Salmon is an easy, tasty way to get dinner on the table quickly. The salmon comes out perfectly cooked with a slightly crispy outside, and the honey garlic glaze adds a sweet and savory punch that makes each bite really pop. It’s a simple dish but full of flavor and texture that never gets boring.
I love making this salmon when I want something healthy but still satisfying. The air fryer keeps the salmon tender and juicy while giving it just enough crispiness on the edges. Plus, the honey garlic sauce is so quick to mix up—it feels fancy without any fuss. I often double the sauce because I like to drizzle extra on top or even dip my veggies in it.
One of my favorite ways to serve this is with steamed rice and some roasted broccoli or green beans. It’s a great weeknight meal that feels like a treat, but it’s so easy you can whip it up even on busy days. If you haven’t tried cooking salmon in an air fryer yet, this recipe is a great place to start—it’s reliable and delicious every time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Skin-on fillets help keep the fish moist and add a nice texture. If you prefer, you can use skinless, but watch cooking time closely to avoid drying out the fish.
Honey: This gives the sauce its sweet touch and helps create that lovely glaze. If you’re avoiding sugar, try maple syrup or agave nectar as a natural substitute.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic offers a punch of flavor and aroma. Garlic powder can work in a pinch, but fresh always tastes brighter.
Soy Sauce: Adds saltiness and umami. For gluten-free options, use tamari or coconut aminos instead.
Lime Juice: The lime brightens the sauce and balances sweetness. Lemon juice also works well if limes aren’t available.
How Do You Cook Salmon Perfectly in the Air Fryer?
Air frying salmon is quick but needs attention to avoid overcooking or drying out the fish. Here’s how to get it right:
- Preheat: Always preheat your air fryer to ensure even cooking and better texture.
- Pat Dry: Dry your salmon with paper towels before seasoning to get a nice crust.
- Single Layer: Place the fillets skin-side down in one layer with some space around them for air circulation.
- Timing: Cook salmon for 7-9 minutes at 400°F, depending on thickness. Thicker fillets need more time.
- Check Doneness: Salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and is opaque in the center. Avoid overcooking to keep it moist.
- Glaze Tips: Brush sauce before cooking and, optionally, once more halfway through to build flavor and glaze.
Following these steps will give you salmon that’s tender inside, slightly crisp outside, and full of tasty honey garlic flavor every time.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Air fryer – I recommend a 3.5 to 4-quart size to fit the fillets comfortably and cook evenly.
- Small mixing bowl – perfect for whisking together the honey garlic sauce.
- Brush or spoon – to generously coat the salmon with the sauce before and during cooking.
- Tongs or a spatula – for carefully removing the cooked salmon from the air fryer basket.
- Measuring spoons – to keep the ingredients precise and easy.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap honey for maple syrup or agave nectar for a different sweetness profile.
- Add a little grated ginger to the sauce for a zesty kick.
- Use lemon juice instead of lime for a slightly different citrus flavor.
- Stir in chopped cilantro or parsley after cooking for fresh herbal notes.
Air Fryer Honey Garlic Salmon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each), skin-on
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice (plus lime slices for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon chopped green onions or chives (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 5 minutes to prep and 7-9 minutes to cook in the air fryer. So, in under 15 minutes, you’ll have a delicious and healthy salmon dinner ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sauce and Salmon:
Start by whisking together honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, lime juice, olive oil, and crushed red pepper flakes in a small bowl. Then, pat your salmon fillets dry with paper towels and lightly season both sides with salt and pepper. Brush the honey garlic sauce generously over the top of each fillet. Don’t forget to save a little sauce for serving later!
2. Cook the Salmon in the Air Fryer:
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down in the air fryer basket, making sure they don’t overlap. Cook for 7-9 minutes, depending on the thickness, until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and has a slightly crispy glazed top. For an extra touch, brush some sauce over the salmon halfway through cooking.
3. Serve and Enjoy:
Once cooked, carefully remove the salmon from the air fryer and place on serving plates. Spoon the reserved honey garlic sauce over the top, sprinkle with chopped green onions or chives, and garnish with lime slices. Serve immediately with rice, steamed veggies, or your favorite sides. Enjoy your tasty, flaky, and flavorful honey garlic salmon!
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just be sure to thaw the salmon completely in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. This helps ensure even cooking and the best texture in the air fryer.
How Should I Store Leftover Honey Garlic Salmon?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the air fryer or microwave to keep the salmon moist and preserve the glaze.
Can I Substitute Soy Sauce in This Recipe?
Absolutely! For a gluten-free option, use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce. These alternatives provide a similar savory flavor that works perfectly with the honey garlic glaze.
What Side Dishes Pair Well with Honey Garlic Salmon?
This salmon is delicious served with steamed rice and roasted or steamed vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or asparagus. A simple salad also complements the flavors nicely for a lighter meal.