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    You are here: Home » Air Fryer Recipes » Best Damn Air Fryer Blackened Salmon

    Best Damn Air Fryer Blackened Salmon

    Last Modified: February 7, 2024

    Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe·5 from 11 reviews

    This air fryer blackened salmon recipe is loaded with bold, vibrant, Cajun goodness. With just the right seasonings, this simple recipe turns an ordinary salmon filet, into extraordinary.

    Blackened salmon filet air fryer recipe

    I love the versatility of salmon and all the culinary possibilities it offers. I also love the versatility and simplicity of the air fryer. It does so much more than just “fry” foods. And for a recipe such as this, it’s a match made in heaven.

    What is Blackened Salmon?

    Blackening is a cooking technique that’s very popular in Cajun cuisine. Blackening is not just about having food with char. It’s about deep colors and deep flavors. Blackened dishes usually have just a bit of heat, but not enough to be overwhelming. The heat from an ingredient such as cayenne is there just to bring out the other other ingredients and create that deep, bold flavor profile.

    Ingredients

    We’ll start with 6-8oz fresh salmon filets. Our blackened seasoning will consist of smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, cumin, ground mustard, oregano, salt, pepper, and a pinch of cayenne. What I love about this seasoning blend is that you probably already have these ingredients in the pantry or spice rack. They blend perfectly together to create an awesome blackening rub for our salmon.

    All the ingredients to make air fryer blackened salmon

    Preparation

    I think it’s safe to say that this is one of the easiest recipes you’ll ever make for your air fryer. The prep is just so simple – combine the ingredients, add a little olive oil to the salmon filets and then generously apply the rub. That’s really it. Preparation is done and ready to go in the air fryer.

    Vibrant and bold seasonings are applied to salmon filets to be made in an air fryer.

    Air Fry at 400°(F) for 8-10 minutes

    Start by preheating your air fryer at 400°(F) for 5 minutes. This is important as it help to get just a little char on the edges of the salmon. Once the air fryer is preheated, add the salmon filets to the basket or tray (middle tray position), set to “air fry” for 8-10 minutes. For salmon filets smaller than 8oz, it may be a minute or 2 less. For thicker, larger salmon filets, it may need a minute or 2 more. The key is to get an internal temperature of 145°(F). Use an instant read food thermometer to check the thickest part of the salmon for doneness.

    Recipe for air fryer blackened salmon

    Let Rest and Serve

    When the salmon is done, remove it to a plate and let it sit for 2-3 minutes before serving.

    Recipe for air fryer blackened salmon

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Can this recipe be doubled?

    It sure can. Just double all the ingredients. Make sure all the filets will fit comfortably in the air fryer with room around each one.

    Can I use frozen salmon filets?

    I always recommend using fresh salmon filets for best results. If using frozen, run filets under cold water for a minute to defrost as best possible. They apply the seasoning. Cooking time will be up to 5 minutes more.

    How to store?

    Store your cooked blackened salmon filets in an airtight container for up to 3 days. It can also be frozen in freezer bags. Make sure to squeeze out as much air as possible from the bags before placing in freezer.

    You Might Also Like…

    Best Damn Air Fryer Salmon: Our original and most popular air fryer salmon recipe.

    Air Fryer Honey Mustard Salmon: So simple and so loaded with flavor, we combine our favorite mustard with honey for a glaze that makes the salmon flavors sweet and savory. I love this one!

    Best Damn Honey Garlic Salmon: Salmon filets are coated with seasoned honey butter, topped with fresh lemon, and cooked to perfection in about 15 minutes. Excellent for a quick and delicious meal any night of the week.

    Print

    Recipe

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    Recipe for air fryer blackened salmon

    Best Damn Air Fryer Blackened Salmon


    5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

    5 from 11 reviews

    • Author: RecipeTeacher
    • Total Time: 15 minutes
    • Yield: 2 servings
    Print Recipe
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    Description

    With deep, bold, vibrant flavors, this air fryer blackened salmon is sure to excite the taste buds. Made with all simple ingredients, this Cajun cuisine favorite is on your plate in under 15 minutes.


    Ingredients

    • 2 6oz salmon filets (fresh, skinless or with skin)
    • 1 tsp smoked paprika
    • ½ tsp onion powder
    • ½ tsp garlic powder
    • ½ tsp oregano
    • ¼ tsp cumin
    • ¼ tsp black pepper
    • ¼ tsp kosher salt
    • ¼ tsp ground mustard
    • ¼ tsp cayenne
    • 1 tsp olive oil

    Instructions

    1. Preheat air fryer at 400°(F) for 5 minutes.
    2. Brush salmon filets with olive oil.
    3. Mix dry ingredients and generously apply to salmon.
    4. Place seasoned salmon in air fryer basket or middle tray position, set to air fry at 400°(F) for 8-10 minutes (depending on thickness of salmon). Salmon will be done when internal temperature is 145°(F)
    5. Remove from air fryer and let rest 2-3 minutes before enjoying.
    • Prep Time: 5 min
    • Cook Time: 10 min
    • Category: Dinner
    • Method: Air Fryer
    • Cuisine: American

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    Recipe for air fryer blackened salmon
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      Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

    1. Kathleen Trimingham says

      August 16, 2024 at 1:20 pm

      Tasty and extremely simple to make

      Reply
      • Valkor says

        February 09, 2025 at 5:02 pm

        Absolutely delicious!! I Used Atlantic Char came out perfect skin gets nice & crispy, while the meat tastes incredible! Ty for this recipe it’s a keeper !

        Reply
    2. Natasha says

      May 16, 2024 at 11:52 am

      So easy and delicious! I don’t like salmon, but I made this for my dad and boyfriend, and they absolutely loved it! I’ve screwed up baking salmon in the oven before, so I was really eager to try an air fryer salmon recipe. I used half the amount of oregano and doubled the amount of cayenne pepper and my boyfriend said the spice blend was perfect!! Usually my bf likes things super, super hot to get his approval, but even though this wasn’t raging hot, he said it was so flavorful that I shouldn’t change a thing. I served it with salad, some curry, and asparagus.

      Reply
    3. Ben says

      April 27, 2024 at 5:04 pm

      Loved it! Can definitely see myself making this frequently

      Reply
    « Older Comments
    Jason of Recipeteacher.com

    Hi, I’m Jason and i’m here to help you make easy, delicious homemade recipes. My approach is to provide the easy-to-understand instructions, use simple ingredients, and have you make the best meals possible.

    More about me →

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