Blackened Salmon Air Fryer
Author: Prep: 5 minutes Cook: 8 minutes Total: 13 minutesJuicy, smoky, and perfectly cooked in under 15 minutes, this blackened salmon air fryer recipe is the ultimate healthy weeknight dinner.
Equipment
- Air fryer
- Small mixing bowl
- Measuring spoons
- Pastry brush (for oil)
- Tongs or spatula
Ingredients
- 2 salmon fillets skin-on or skinless, about 6 oz each
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper adjust for spice preference
- ½ teaspoon salt or to taste
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Preheat Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3 minutes.
- Mix Seasoning: In a small bowl, combine paprika, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
- Prepare Salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Brush each fillet with olive oil.
- Season: Rub the blackened seasoning evenly over the salmon, coating all sides.
- Air Fry: Place the fillets in the air fryer basket, skin side down if using skin-on salmon. Cook for 7–9 minutes or until the salmon reaches an internal temperature of 145°F and the surface is slightly charred.
- Serve: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top before serving.
Notes
- For milder spice, reduce or omit the cayenne pepper.
- Works with both fresh and thawed frozen salmon.
- Can be made ahead — season the salmon up to 8 hours in advance and store in the fridge.
Nutrition
Calories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 2gProtein: 34gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 94mgSodium: 420mgFiber: 1g