Air Fryer Blackened Salmon

The Best Air Fryer Blackened Salmon –If you have been looking for the best damn blackened salmon recipe, you have come to the right place. This will be one of the easiest meals in your air fryer and perfect for a quick dinner or light lunch!

Easy Air Fryer Blackened Salmon Recipe: A Game-Changer!  ​

Welcome to the world of air frying, where cooking is not only healthier but also faster and, dare we say, more delicious! If you’re a fan of perfectly cooked salmon with a crust that packs a punch in flavor, you’re in for a treat.

Our Easy Air Fryer Blackened Salmon Recipe promises a mouth-watering, flaky fish with a spicy and aromatic crust in under 15 minutes. It’s a game-changer for weeknight dinners, lunch preps, or when you want a restaurant-quality meal at home. Dive into this recipe and get ready to be amazed! 

Suppose you are looking for some other great and easy seafood dishes made in the air fryer. In that case, these are some of my favorites: Air Fryer Mussels, of course, and my favorite Air Fryer Copycat Legal Seafood Crab Cakes.

Ingredients Needed For Cooking Blackstined Salmon In Air Fryer

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You can have this delicious meal on the table in minutes with a few simple ingredients. The recipe will work the same whether you use homemade blackened seasoning or pre-made blends of blackened seasoning.

Remember the step-by-step directions and detailed ingredient list are below in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post, as well as the nutritional information. ​

• Salmon Fillets: Opt for fresh, skin-on salmon fillets for the best results. The skin provides a barrier that keeps the salmon juicy while cooking.  
• Olive Oil: This will help the seasoning stick to the salmon and ensure it doesn’t dry out. A drizzle is all you need. 
• Paprika: Adds color and a mild sweetness to the crust. 
• Cayenne Pepper: Brings the heat! Adjust to your preference; a little goes a long way. 
• Onion Powder & Garlic Powder: These add depth and savory notes to the spice blend.
• Dried Thyme & Oregano: Herbs complement the flavors and add a touch of earthiness.  
• White Pepper & Black Pepper: Combining peppers enhances the spiciness and complexity.  
• Kosher Salt: Essential for seasoning and drawing out the natural flavors of the salmon. 
• Lemon Wedges (optional): For serving. A squeeze of lemon juice brightens up the dish and adds a touch of acidity. 

How To Cook Blackened Salmon In Air Fryer

Below are the step-by-step directions on how to make blackened fish in your air fryer.  

Preparation: Begin by patting the salmon filets dry with paper towels. This will ensure the seasoning adheres well and the salmon gets a nice crust when cooked.

Seasoning: In a small bowl, mix together your blackening spice mix. Add the blackening spice mixture to both sides of the salmon fillets, gently pressing the seasoning into the flesh.

Preheat Air Fryer: Turn on your air fryer and preheat it to 400 degrees °F (200°C) for 3-4 minutes; this will give you the scam crispy texture of a cast iron skillet. Some models don’t require preheating, but if yours does, give it a few minutes to warm up.

Arrange Salmon: Place the seasoned salmon fillets in the basket of your air fryer, skin side down, ensuring they’re not touching or overlapping. This ensures even cooking. For added flavor brush the top of the salmon with melted butter, or drizzle olive oil or avocado oil.

Cooking: Set cook time for 8-10 minutes. The exact time might vary based on the thickness of the salmon fillets and your specific air fryer model.

Check Doneness: The salmon should flake easily with a fork when it’s done. Additionally, you can use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C) when fully cooked.

Serving: Once cooked, carefully remove the salmon from the air fryer. Drizzle with fresh lemon juice or a sauce of your choice, garnish with fresh herbs if desired, and serve immediately.

Enjoy your air fryer blackened salmon with roasted veggies, a fresh salad, or even some creamy mashed potatoes! The quick and even cooking of the air fryer ensures perfectly moist and flavorful salmon every time.

Pro Tips For The Best Blackened Salmon Recipe Air Fryer

• Quality Matters: Start with fresh or properly thawed salmon for the best texture and flavor. Salmon should be firm to the touch, with a fresh scent.
• Skin-On vs. Skin-Off: While this recipe suggests skinless salmon, if you prefer skin-on, place the skin side down in the air fryer. The skin will get crispy and add a contrasting texture.
• Even Seasoning: Season salmon evenly with the blackening spice. Uneven seasoning can make parts of the salmon too spicy or bland.
• Prevent Sticking: If your air fryer tends for food to stick, consider lightly spraying the basket with a non-stick cooking spray or using parchment paper specifically designed for air fryers.
• Don’t Overcrowd: Place salmon pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket and ensure space between each piece. Overcrowding may result in uneven cooking.
• Internal Temperature: The cooking time will vary from air fryer to air fryer. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (62.8°C) for perfectly cooked salmon. If you have a kitchen thermometer, it’s a great tool to ensure precise doneness.
• Post-Cooking Rest: Let the salmon rest for a few minutes after removing it from the air fryer. This allows the juices to redistribute, and the residual heat will continue to cook the salmon slightly.
• Variations: Feel free to experiment with additional flavors. Lemon zest, garlic powder, or a touch of brown sugar can add a twist to the classic blackened seasoning.
• Accompaniments: Consider serving the salmon with a cool, creamy sauce or dip, like tzatziki or a dill yogurt sauce, to balance out the spicy blackening seasoning.
• Stay Safe: Blackening spice can be a bit potent and might cause minor eye or nose irritation. It’s recommended to wash your hands immediately after handling and avoid touching your face.

Remembering these tips, you’ll achieve perfectly blackened salmon every time you use your air fryer!

What is blackened seasoning made of?

Blackened seasoning typically includes paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, salt, and black pepper. The combination results in a spicy and aromatic mix. It is similar to cajun seasoning. 

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, but it’s best to fully thaw the salmon before seasoning and cooking. This ensures even cooking and proper flavor absorption.

How long should I cook salmon in an air fryer?

Cooking times might vary based on the thickness of the salmon and the specific air fryer brand. Generally, salmon fillets take about 7-10 minutes at 400°F. Always check for doneness by ensuring it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.

Why is my salmon dry?

Overcooking can lead to dry salmon. It’s crucial to monitor the cooking time and temperature. Letting salmon rest post-cooking can also help in retaining its juiciness.

Can I make this recipe without the blackened seasoning?

Absolutely! You can season your salmon with just salt and pepper or any of your preferred spices. The air fryer will still give it a wonderful texture.

Is blackened salmon very spicy?

Blackened seasoning has a kick, and a bit of heat, but it’s not overly spicy. However, if you’re sensitive to heat, you can reduce the cayenne pepper amount in the mix.

How do I store leftover blackened salmon?

Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consumed within 2-3 days.

Can I reheat the salmon in the air fryer?

Yes, you can reheat at 350°F for about 3-4 minutes. However, be cautious not to overcook as it can make the salmon dry.

Can I use other types of fish for this recipe?

Certainly! While salmon is commonly used for blackening, other fish like tilapia, catfish, or cod can also be used with this method.

Can I make a larger batch in the air fryer?

Yes, but ensure that the salmon pieces don’t overlap and there’s space between them for even cooking. Cook in batches if needed.

More Air Fryer Recipes

• Air Fryer Crab Cakes
• Air Fryer Fish Sticks
• Air Fryer Calamari

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