Print

Crispy Air Fryer Salmon with Lemon Butter: Easy 15-Minute Dinner

crispy air fryer salmon with lemon butter - featured image

This crispy air fryer salmon with lemon butter delivers restaurant-quality crispy skin and tender, flaky flesh in just 15 minutes. Perfect for weeknight dinners or impressive dinner parties.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each), skin on
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • Lemon slices for serving

Instructions

  1. Pat each salmon fillet dry with paper towels. Place skin-side up on a plate and refrigerate uncovered for 10 minutes to dry the skin further.
  2. Remove salmon from fridge. Brush flesh side lightly with olive oil. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
  3. Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for at least 3 minutes.
  4. In a small bowl, combine softened butter, lemon juice, and minced garlic. Mix until smooth and set aside at room temperature.
  5. Place salmon fillets skin-side down in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not touching. Cook at 400°F for 8 minutes for medium (internal temp 125°F) or 10 minutes for well-done (internal temp 135°F).
  6. Carefully remove salmon using tongs or a fish spatula. Transfer to a serving platter. Spoon lemon butter sauce over hot fillets. Let rest for 2 minutes.
  7. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and arrange lemon slices around the platter. Serve immediately.

Notes

Pat the salmon skin thoroughly dry for maximum crispiness. Do not flip the salmon during cooking. Use room-temperature butter for a smooth sauce. Air fryer models vary; start checking at 7 minutes. Leftover salmon can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and reheated in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: air fryer salmon, crispy salmon, lemon butter salmon, quick salmon recipe, easy dinner, salmon fillet, healthy salmon