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.
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.
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.
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.
Let Rest and Serve
When the salmon is done, remove it to a plate and let it sit for 2-3 minutes before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
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.
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.
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.
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Best Damn Air Fryer Blackened Salmon
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
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
- Preheat air fryer at 400°(F) for 5 minutes.
- Brush salmon filets with olive oil.
- Mix dry ingredients and generously apply to salmon.
- 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)
- 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
Marge says
My guests loved it
Shirley P Franklin says
The pickiest eater I know loved this salmon recipe! Had to cook longer to get to 145 degrees but it was so good!
Nancy says
Really good!! Only thing, I can’t imagine cooking salmon to 145 degrees, I know the USDA recommends this but this is why I can’t eat it unless I cook it. We caught this ourselves, it’s been frozen, so I feel it’s safe. I used a constant read probe thermometer set at 120 degrees. During the rest period the temp kept rising, up to 137! It was tender and delicious. Thank you for all your wonderful recipes.
Dave Raring says
Simple recipe…great results!
Beth says
Absolutely delicious! Cut the oregano in half as someone else had mentioned! This one will be added to our dinner rotations.
Julie Smolar says
Made this tonight, pretty much as directed. I did slightly less oregano since I was worried it would dominate the flavor. Only has regular yellow mustard, so after oil, I spread a very small amount across the salmon before adding the seasoning mix. Was absolutely delightful. Paired fantastically with a Pinot Noir. Bookmarked!
Judy says
Made this last night and it was a huge hit! Thanks!
Ady Moses says
I made it tonight for dinner, we were 3 people and everyone loved it. Very moist and flavourful we really enjoyed.
Thanks for the recipe.
Joy D says
Absolutely the best salmon recipe I’ve tried… The salmon is flavorful and moist. I have made it multiple times and love it. Always moist !
Kristen Cisneros says
So good. I had to cook about double the time in my air-fryer but nonetheless it was so good. A new fav!