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Honey Glazed Air Fryer Salmon

This dish features salmon fillets coated in a sticky, honey-based glaze that caramelizes quickly in the air fryer, creating a crackly, glossy crust. The high heat and sweet glaze combine to produce tender, flaky fish with a satisfying crispy exterior. The process involves simple steps of brushing, air frying, and watching for that beautiful caramelization.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • 4 fillets salmon fillets skin-on, thick cuts
  • 3 tbsp honey preferably thick honey like clover or wildflower
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce low-sodium if desired
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tsp fresh ginger grated (optional)
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice freshly squeezed
  • 1 light spray neutral oil avocado or vegetable oil

Equipment

  • Air fryer
  • Basting brush
  • Foil (optional for cleanup)

Method
 

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray the basket with neutral oil or line it with foil for easier cleanup.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger (if using), and lemon juice until well combined. This creates a glossy, fragrant glaze.
  3. Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels to ensure the glaze sticks and the skin crisps up nicely.
  4. Use a basting brush to coat the top and sides of each salmon fillet generously with the honey glaze. Let any excess drip off; it will caramelize during cooking.
  5. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down in the air fryer basket, ensuring they aren’t touching to allow even cooking and caramelization.
  6. Cook the salmon at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes, or until the glaze bubbles and develops a crackly, glossy crust. You should hear a sizzle when the glaze hits the hot basket.
  7. Halfway through cooking, open the air fryer and carefully flip the fillets using tongs, then brush with more glaze if desired. This helps achieve an even caramelized crust on both sides.
  8. Continue cooking until the surface is golden, crispy, and caramelized, and the fish flakes easily when tested with a fork.
  9. Remove the salmon from the air fryer and let it rest for a minute. The glaze will be sticky and crackly, with a beautiful glossy appearance.
  10. Serve immediately, spooning any remaining glaze over the top for extra flavor. Enjoy the tender, flaky salmon with its irresistible caramelized crust.