Is fresh or frozen salmon better for this recipe?

Either works! Just make sure frozen salmon is fully thawed and very well patted dry. Fresh salmon may have a slightly better texture, but you’ll never notice the difference once it’s all seasoned and air fried.

Can I make this with salmon fillets instead of cubes?

Absolutely. For fillets, increase the air frying time to 10–12 minutes depending on thickness. The result is just as flavorful, though the cubes do get crispier edges.

How do I know when the salmon is done?

Perfect salmon should easily flake apart with a fork and stay moist inside. If you're unsure, check for a slightly translucent center after 6–8 minutes; they'll continue cooking a bit as they rest.

Can I use this seasoning blend on other proteins?

Definitely! Try it on shrimp, chicken breast chunks, or even tofu cubes. Just adjust air frying times as needed for the protein you’re using.

Ridiculously Good Air Fryer Salmon Recipe

Name: Ridiculously Good Air Fryer Salmon Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 13 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb. salmon, boneless and skinless; 1 tablespoon brown sugar; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/2 teaspoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon cornstarch; 3/4 teaspoon coarse kosher salt (or 1/2 teaspoon table salt); 2–3 teaspoons avocado oil or olive oil

Description

This ridiculously good Air Fryer Salmon is an easy, flavorful main course featuring tender cubed salmon coated in a sweet and smoky spice blend. With a crisp, golden outside and buttery, juicy inside, it cooks in only minutes with minimal prep—perfect for a healthy, delicious weeknight meal.

Ingredients

Units Scale

Salmon

1 lb. salmon, boneless and skinless

Spice Mix

1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon cornstarch
3/4 teaspoon coarse kosher salt (or 1/2 teaspoon table salt)

Oil

2–3 teaspoons avocado oil or olive oil

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Prep the Salmon: Remove the skin from the salmon if present. Pat the salmon surface dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Cut the salmon into cubes, each about 1 to 2 inches in size.
Prepare the Spice Mix: In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, paprika, smoked paprika, chili powder, onion powder, garlic powder, cornstarch, and salt. Mix well to evenly distribute all the spices. If the brown sugar is clumpy, break it apart with your fingers or a fork for a smoother mix.
Season the Salmon: Place the cubed salmon in a large bowl. Add the spice mixture and the avocado (or olive) oil. Toss thoroughly, using your hands or a spoon to ensure each cube is evenly coated with spices and oil.
Air Fry the Salmon: Arrange the salmon pieces in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they are not crowded. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 8 minutes or until the outside is golden and crispy, and the inside is juicy and tender. For a less done salmon (medium), cook for 6-7 minutes.
Serve: Once done, remove the salmon from the air fryer. Check the doneness by pressing with a fork—salmon should flake easily and remain juicy inside. Serve immediately with your favorite sides.

Notes

Use thick, boneless, and skinless salmon fillets for easier cubing and even cooking.
If brown sugar is clumpy, break it up before mixing with the spices for better coating.
The spice mix is enough for up to 1.5 lbs of salmon; for more thorough coating, adjust the salt as needed after tasting.
Ask your fishmonger to remove the skin and cube the salmon if desired.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/4 pound salmon (about 113g)
Calories: 215
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 430mg
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 1.5g
Unsaturated Fat: 7.5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 5g
Fiber: 0.7g
Protein: 24g
Cholesterol: 60mg