The Ultimate Air-Fried Garlic Butter Honey Glazed Salmon
This air-fried salmon is crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and coated in a rich, buttery, sweet, and savory glaze that will make everyone’s taste buds dance! It’s the best salmon recipe you’ll ever make, the kind of dish that will have people begging for the recipe and making it again and again. This is restaurant-quality, viral-worthy, and totally irresistible!
Why This is the Best Salmon Recipe Ever?
✅ Perfectly crisp outside, flaky inside – The air fryer creates a golden, caramelized crust while keeping the salmon moist and tender.
✅ The most addictive glaze – A rich garlic butter honey glaze with the perfect balance of sweet, salty, and umami flavors.
✅ Fast & foolproof – Done in under 15 minutes, perfect for busy nights or when you want a gourmet meal without the hassle.
✅ Healthy, yet indulgent – High in omega-3s, packed with protein, and naturally gluten-free, but tastes like a luxury dish.
📝 Ingredients (4 Servings)
For the Salmon:
- 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each, skin on or off)
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp smoked paprika (for depth)
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp olive oil (or avocado oil)
For the Irresistible Garlic Butter Honey Glaze:
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced (garlicky goodness)
- 3 tbsp honey (just the right sweetness)
- 1½ tbsp low-sodium soy sauce (for umami)
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice (for a bright kick)
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard (adds depth)
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a mild heat)
For Garnish & Serving:
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges
- Steamed or roasted veggies (as a side)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1️⃣ Prep the Salmon
- Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels (removes moisture for crispiness).
- Season both sides with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
- Lightly rub the fillets with olive oil to help with crisping.
2️⃣ Air Fry to Perfection
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3-5 minutes.
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil spray.
- Place salmon skin-side down and air fry for 7-9 minutes (depending on thickness).
3️⃣ Make the Game-Changing Garlic Butter Honey Glaze
- While the salmon is cooking, melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat.
- Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in honey, soy sauce, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and red pepper flakes.
- Simmer for 1-2 minutes until the glaze thickens slightly.
4️⃣ Glaze & Finish Cooking
- At the 7-minute mark, open the air fryer and brush half of the glaze over the salmon.
- Air fry for another 1-2 minutes to let the glaze caramelize.
- Remove from the air fryer and immediately brush with the remaining glaze for an extra glossy finish.
5️⃣ Serve & Devour
- Plate the salmon and garnish with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice.
- Serve with steamed or roasted vegetables or a side of your choice.
- Enjoy the most irresistible, viral-worthy salmon ever!
Pro Tips for Next-Level Flavor:
✔️ Use high-quality wild-caught salmon – It has a richer flavor and firmer texture.
✔️ Let the glaze thicken slightly before brushing – This creates a sticky, caramelized finish.
✔️ Don’t overcrowd the air fryer – Ensures even cooking and crispiness.
✔️ Double the glaze if you love extra saucy salmon.
Health & Nutrition Highlights
🥑 Rich in Omega-3s – Great for heart health and glowing skin.
💪 High in Protein – Keeps you full and supports muscle health.
🌿 Naturally Gluten-Free – Perfect for a clean-eating lifestyle.
🍯 Balanced with Healthy Fats & Natural Sweetness – Indulgent but still nourishing.