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Spicy Crispy Air Fryer Salmon

This dish features salmon fillets seasoned with a smoky chili powder rub, cooked in an air fryer until the skin turns crisp and golden, while the flesh remains tender and juicy. The high-heat cooking method produces a satisfying crunchy exterior and a flavorful, flaky interior, topped with a bright squeeze of lemon or lime.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 17 minutes
Servings: 2
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pieces salmon fillets preferably skin-on
  • 1 tsp chili powder smoky paprika blend preferred
  • 0.5 tsp salt sea salt flakes or regular salt
  • 1 tsp oil olive or avocado oil
  • 1 lemon or lime lemon or lime for squeezing at the end

Equipment

  • Air fryer
  • Paper towels
  • Small bowl
  • Tongs

Method
 

  1. Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, ensuring the skin gets crispy.
  2. In a small bowl, mix the chili powder and salt together to create a flavorful rub.
  3. Rub the chili mixture evenly over the flesh side of each salmon fillet, pressing lightly to help it stick.
  4. Lightly brush the skin of each fillet with oil; this promotes crispness and helps the spices adhere.
  5. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and let it warm for about 3-5 minutes.
  6. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down in the air fryer basket, ensuring they aren’t touching for even cooking.
  7. Cook the salmon for 10-12 minutes, listening for that satisfying crackle and watching the skin turn deep golden and crispy.
  8. Use tongs to carefully remove the fillets from the air fryer and transfer to a plate.
  9. Squeeze fresh lemon or lime over the hot fillets to brighten the flavors and serve immediately.
  10. Enjoy the crispy-skinned, smoky, spicy salmon with your favorite sides.