Air Fryer Bourbon Glazed Salmon — I know, I know. You’re thinking: “Salmon? Seriously?” But it’s not as boring as you might think. And let me tell you why: first off, the bourbon glaze is so good, and secondly, it cooks in about 10 minutes!
The best thing about cooking salmon is the different flavors and spices you can mix to make something new.
One of my favorite combinations recently has been bourbon – because it tastes like summer in a jar! This recipe for bourbon-glazed Salmon uses a few ingredients to create a delicious dish that will make your mouth water as soon as you smell it coming out of the air fryer.
If this sounds good to you, then keep reading!
There is nothing better than Air Fryer Salmon. Some of my Air Fryer Salmone Recipes are CHILE LIME AIR FRYER SALMON, LEMON DILL AIR FRYER SALMON, AIR FRYER SALMON WITH WHOLE-GRAIN MUSTARD, and AIR FRYER MAPLE GLAZED SALMON.
Air Fryer Bourbon Glazed Salmon
Air Fryer Bourbon Glazed Salmon is a tantalizing dish that effortlessly marries the rich, deep flavors of bourbon with the natural succulence of salmon. This recipe is a testament to the magic of the air fryer, which perfectly cooks the salmon to a flaky tenderness while allowing the bourbon glaze to caramelize beautifully. The glaze, a harmonious blend of bourbon, brown sugar, soy sauce, and garlic, creates a glossy, flavorful coating that enhances the salmon’s natural taste. The bourbon adds a unique smoky sweetness, balanced by the savory notes of the soy sauce and the richness of the brown sugar, resulting in a complex and irresistibly delicious glaze.
Preparing this dish in an air fryer makes it a quick and convenient option for any day of the week. It ensures a healthier meal, as air frying requires significantly less oil than traditional frying methods. The ease of preparation combined with the gourmet appeal of this dish makes it perfect for casual family dinners and more sophisticated occasions. Every bite of the Air Fryer Bourbon Glazed Salmon offers a delightful burst of flavors, ensuring that this dish will be a surefire hit with anyone who appreciates the finer nuances of a well-cooked salmon. Whether you’re an experienced cook or just beginning to explore the wonders of air frying, this recipe is a straightforward path to a truly memorable meal.
Why You Will Love Air Fryer Bourbon Salmon recipe!
- Unique Flavor Profile: The combination of bourbon, brown sugar, and soy sauce creates a glaze that is the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and smoky.
- Quick and Easy: Utilizing an air fryer means this dish comes together quickly and with minimal fuss.
- Healthy Cooking Option: Air frying is a healthier alternative to traditional frying methods.
- Perfect Texture: The air fryer cooks the salmon evenly, producing a perfectly flaky and tender texture with a beautifully caramelized glaze outside.
- Versatility: This dish is versatile enough for casual weeknights and special occasions.
- Impressive Presentation: The bourbon glaze gives the salmon a stunning glaze that looks impressive on any plate, making it a great option for entertaining guests.
- Customizable: The recipe is easily adaptable. You can tweak the amount of bourbon or sweetness to suit your taste or add ingredients like ginger or garlic for an extra flavor kick.
Ingredients Needed For Air Fryer Bourbon Glazed Salmon
Here are the simple ingredients needed for this easy bourbon salmon air fryer.
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: Salmon fillets are known for their tender, flaky texture and rich flavor, which make them the perfect canvas for the bourbon glaze.
- Bourbon: Adds a unique depth with its smoky caramel notes, infusing the salmon with a complex and irresistible taste.
- Brown Sugar: Brown sugar contributes a molasses-like sweetness, perfectly balancing the smokiness of the bourbon and creating a beautiful caramelization on the salmon’s surface.
- Soy Sauce: Soy sauce adds a savory umami element, bringing a salty balance to the glaze and enhancing the overall depth of flavor.
- Garlic: Minced garlic introduces a pungent and aromatic quality, adding another layer of flavor that complements both the bourbon and the salmon.
- Lemon Juice: A splash of lemon juice cuts through the richness of the glaze with its bright acidity, adding a fresh and zesty note to the dish.
- Optional Ingredients (like Ginger or Honey): For a twist, ingredients like ginger can add a spicy warmth, while honey can increase the sweetness and give a smoother glaze.
How To Make Air Fryer Bourbon Glazed Salmon
Creating Air Fryer Bourbon Glazed Salmon involves a simple yet flavorful process. Here’s a step-by-step guide to make this delicious dish:
Prepare the Glaze: In a small saucepan, combine bourbon, brown sugar, soy sauce, minced garlic, and lemon juice. If using, add ginger or honey for extra flavor. Simmer the mixture over medium heat until it reduces to a thick glaze, stirring occasionally. Let it cool slightly.
Marinate the Salmon: Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag. Pour half of the bourbon glaze over the salmon, ensuring each fillet is well-coated. Reserve the remaining glaze for later. Let the salmon marinate in the refrigerator for about 15-30 minutes.
Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This step ensures that the salmon cooks evenly and gets a nice glaze.
Air Fry the Salmon: Place the marinated salmon fillets in the air fryer basket, skin-side down. Be careful not to overcrowd the basket. Cook for about 7-10 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets, until the salmon is cooked through and has a nice glaze on top.
Baste with Glaze: Halfway through cooking, brush the salmon with reserved glaze for extra flavor and a beautiful sheen.
Check for Doneness: The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Serve: Remove the salmon from the air fryer and rest for a few minutes. Drizzle the remaining bourbon glaze over the fillets before serving.
Garnish and Enjoy: Garnish with a slice of lemon or a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired.
Air Fryer Bourbon Glazed Salmon Recipe Tips
- Quality of Ingredients: Use fresh salmon for the best flavor and texture. Choose a brand you enjoy drinking for the bourbon, as its flavor will significantly influence the glaze.
- Marinating Time: Don’t over-marinate the salmon in the bourbon glaze, especially if it has a high acid content. A maximum of 30 minutes is sufficient, as longer marinating times can start to “cook” the fish and alter its texture.
- Glaze Consistency: Ensure your bourbon glaze is reduced to the right consistency – it should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Cook the salmon fillets in a single layer without overlapping.
- Basting with Glaze: Halfway through cooking, baste the salmon with extra glaze.
- Checking for Doneness: Use a fork to check if the salmon flakes easily, indicating it’s done.
- Resting Time: Let the salmon rest for a few minutes after cooking.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve the salmon with sides that complement its rich flavor, such as steamed green vegetables, a light salad, or roasted potatoes.
- Glaze Variations: Experiment with the glaze ingredients to suit your taste. Adding ginger, garlic, or a hint of citrus can bring a new dimension to the dish.
- Clean Air Fryer Immediately: After cooking, clean your air fryer basket while it’s still warm to prevent glaze residue from hardening, making it easier to clean.
Air Fryer Bourbon Glazed Salmon Recipe Faq’s
What type of bourbon is best for the glaze? Use a bourbon you enjoy drinking. A mid-range bourbon typically works well, as its flavors will infuse the glaze. You don’t need an expensive, top-shelf bourbon for cooking.
How do I know when the salmon is cooked perfectly? Salmon is made when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). The flesh should be opaque and slightly pink in the center.
Can I make the bourbon glaze ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare the bourbon glaze and store it in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir or a gentle reheat before using it.
Is it necessary to marinate the salmon? While marinating is not mandatory, it does help the salmon absorb more flavor. A brief marinate of 15-30 minutes is sufficient.
Can this recipe be made without an air fryer? Yes, you can bake the salmon in a regular oven. Preheat the oven to around 375°F (190°C) and bake for approximately 12-15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets.
How can I prevent the glaze from burning in the air fryer? Monitor the cooking process closely, especially if your air fryer runs hot. The high sugar content in the glaze can cause it to burn if cooked too long.
What side dishes pair well with bourbon glazed salmon? Light sides like steamed vegetables, a fresh salad, or quinoa are great. For heartier options, consider rice, mashed potatoes, or roasted veggies.
Can I use a different type of fish for this recipe? Yes, the bourbon glaze pairs well with other types of fish, like trout or tilapia. Adjust cooking times based on the thickness and type of fish.
How long should leftovers be stored? Store leftover bourbon-glazed salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently to avoid drying out the fish.
More Easy Air Fryer Recipes
- CHILE LIME AIR FRYER SALMON
- LEMON DILL AIR FRYER SALMON
- INSTANT POT LEMON SALMON
- AIR FRYER SALMON WITH WHOLE-GRAIN MUSTARD
- AIR FRYER MAPLE GLAZED SALMON
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Air Fryer Bourbon Glazed Salmon
Description
Ingredients
- 2 salmon fillets
Bourbon Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar
- 3 tablespoons Bourbon
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon minced ginger
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- red pepper flakes , to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Glaze: In a small saucepan, combine bourbon, brown sugar, soy sauce, minced garlic, and lemon juice. If using, add ginger or honey for extra flavor. Simmer the mixture over medium heat until it reduces to a thick glaze, stirring occasionally. Let it cool slightly.
- Marinate the Salmon: Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag. Pour half of the bourbon glaze over the salmon, ensuring each fillet is well-coated. Reserve the remaining glaze for later. Let the salmon marinate in the refrigerator for about 15-30 minutes.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This step ensures that the salmon cooks evenly and gets a nice glaze.
- Air Fry the Salmon: Place the marinated salmon fillets in the air fryer basket, skin-side down. Be careful not to overcrowd the basket. Cook for about 7-10 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets, until the salmon is cooked through and has a nice glaze on top.
- Baste with Glaze: Halfway through cooking, brush the salmon with some of the reserved glaze for extra flavor and a beautiful sheen.
- Check for Doneness: The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Serve: Remove the salmon from the air fryer and let it rest for a couple of minutes. Drizzle the remaining bourbon glaze over the fillets before serving.
- Garnish and Enjoy: Garnish with a slice of lemon or a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired.
Equipment
- Cooking Spray
- Parchment Paper, optional
Nutrition
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Mary
This is perfect. The bourbon was not too strong of a taste. I did cut the salt in half and didn’t miss the extra salt. Air fryer. So easy. Put a piece of parchment under each piece and a quick cleanup! I will definitely use this marinade/recipe again.
Shari
This was the best salmon ever. So easy! I used 1/4 tsp powdered ginger for substitution. Marinated in a bag with frozen fillets on the counter for 1.5 hours. Poured marinade into a pot & boiled to reduce prior to basting during cooking. Time for cooking & taste an absolute 10!!!