Honey Garlic Air Fryer Salmon – Easy, Healthy, and Gluten Free Dinner Recipe

Why I Love This Air Fryer Salmon Recipe:

This Honey Garlic Air Fryer Salmon is one of those recipes that checks every box — quick, flavorful, and healthy! The salmon turns out tender on the inside with a perfectly caramelized glaze on the outside. The combination of sweet honey, savory garlic, and a touch of soy sauce creates a mouthwatering flavor that rivals any restaurant dish. Best of all, it’s ready in under 15 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you want an effortless gourmet dinner.

Ingredient Notes:

Each ingredient in this air fryer salmon recipe plays an essential role in creating a balance of flavor and texture.

• Salmon Fillets: Fresh, boneless fillets with skin-on work best as they retain moisture and cook evenly.
• Honey: Adds a natural sweetness and helps caramelize the glaze in the air fryer.
• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic enhances the savory depth and aroma.
• Soy Sauce (or Tamari): Use gluten-free tamari for a gluten-free option; it provides a rich, umami base.
• Olive Oil: Adds richness and helps crisp the salmon exterior.
• Lemon Juice: A splash of acidity brightens the flavors and balances the sweetness.
• Black Pepper & Sea Salt: Classic seasonings that round out the dish perfectly.

Step-By-Step Photos and Directions:

1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3–5 minutes. This ensures even cooking and a crisp finish.
2. Prepare the glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the salmon: Pat salmon fillets dry and brush both sides generously with the honey garlic mixture.
4. Air fry: Place the salmon fillets skin-side down in the basket. Cook for 7–9 minutes, depending on thickness.
5. Glaze again: Halfway through cooking, brush more glaze on top for extra flavor.
6. Check doneness: The salmon should flake easily with a fork and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
7. Serve hot: Drizzle remaining glaze over the salmon before serving.

Oven-Baked Directions:

No air fryer? No problem!

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Place salmon on a lined baking sheet and brush with the honey garlic glaze.
• Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until salmon flakes easily and reaches 145°F.
• Broil for the last 1–2 minutes for a caramelized top.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
A: Yes! Just thaw it completely and pat dry before adding the glaze to ensure proper cooking and browning.

Q: What sides go best with honey garlic salmon?
A: Pair it with jasmine rice, roasted asparagus, or a light quinoa salad for a balanced meal.

Q: Can I make this recipe dairy-free or gluten-free?
A: It’s naturally dairy-free! Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free version.

Q: How long does leftover salmon last?
A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the air fryer .

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Easy Air Fryer Salmon

Equipment

• Air Fryer
• Mixing Bowl
• Silicone Brush
• Meat Thermometer

Ingredients 1x 2x 3x

• 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp soy sauce (or gluten-free tamari)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush glaze on salmon fillets.
4. Place fillets skin-side down in the air fryer basket.
5. Cook for 7–9 minutes, brushing again halfway through.
6. Remove and drizzle with any remaining glaze.
7. Serve hot with rice or vegetables.

Notes

For the best results, choose fresh, high-quality salmon fillets and pat them dry before seasoning — this helps the honey garlic glaze caramelize perfectly in the air fryer. If you prefer a crispier texture, cook the salmon for an extra minute or two. For an added burst of flavor, drizzle extra sauce over the top before serving. This recipe pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, rice, or a light salad for a quick and healthy dinner.

Special Note

If you’re following a gluten-free diet, make sure to use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari in the glaze. You can also replace honey with maple syrup for a slightly different sweetness. Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket — proper airflow ensures even cooking and that signature golden finish on your air fryer salmon.

Nutrition

Per serving (based on 4 servings):
Calories: 315 | Protein: 32 g | Carbohydrates: 8 g | Fat: 18 g | Saturated Fat: 3 g | Fiber: 0 g | Sugar: 6 g | Cholesterol: 85 mg | Sodium: 410 mg

Nutrition Disclaimer

Nutritional information is automatically calculated and provided for convenience. Actual values may vary depending on the brands and portion sizes used. This air fryer salmon recipe is designed to support a balanced, wholesome diet but should not replace professional nutritional guidance.