Few things make dinner feel both indulgent and effortless quite like salmon.
And when it’s glazed in sticky-sweet honey, rich soy sauce, and garlicky goodness—then cooked in the air fryer to caramelized perfection—it’s downright irresistible.
This honey garlic air fryer salmon is one of my favorite weeknight meals when I need something healthy, bold, and fast.
Why I Love This Recipe
Ready in under 10 minutes
Sweet, savory, and packed with flavor
Minimal cleanup thanks to foil
Family-friendly and gluten-free adaptable
Elegant enough for guests, easy enough for Tuesday night
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Salmon filets – Rich in omega-3s, tender and juicy
Honey – Brings sweetness and helps caramelize the glaze
Soy sauce or tamari – Salty umami depth, gluten-free if needed
Garlic – Use fresh or powder for bold flavor
Kosher salt & black pepper – To season the fish simply and perfectly
Pro Tips Before You Start
Line the air fryer with foil for easy cleanup
Pat salmon dry before seasoning to get a better crust
Use minced garlic around the filet, not on top—it can burn
Adjust cook time depending on filet thickness and air fryer power
Save the extra sauce from the foil to drizzle before serving!
How to Make Honey Garlic Air Fryer Salmon
Step 1: Make the Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, and minced garlic or garlic powder. Set it aside.
Step 2: Season the Salmon
Pat dry your salmon filets using paper towels.
Season both sides with salt and pepper.
Step 3: Prep the Air Fryer
Line the basket with foil and preheat your air fryer to 400°F for about 3 minutes.
Step 4: Add Salmon and Sauce
Place the seasoned filets skin-side down in the basket.
Pour the glaze evenly over each piece.
If using minced garlic, spread it around the salmon, not directly on top.
Step 5: Cook the Salmon
Close the air fryer and cook for 4–8 minutes, depending on the thickness and your air fryer’s strength.
The salmon is done when flaky and opaque in the center.
Step 6: Plate and Serve
Carefully lift the salmon from the foil and spoon any leftover sauce from the foil on top.
Serve hot with your favorite sides.
What to Serve It With
Steamed jasmine or brown rice
Roasted or air-fried broccoli
Asian slaw or cucumber salad
Mashed potatoes or garlic noodles for a cozy twist
Variations / Substitutions
Swap maple syrup for honey if you prefer a deeper sweetness
Use chili flakes or sriracha in the glaze for a spicy kick
Add grated ginger for extra flavor
Swap soy with coconut aminos for a soy-free version
Top with green onions or sesame seeds before serving
Storage & Leftovers
Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days
Reheat gently in the microwave or air fryer (at 300°F for 2–3 minutes)
Leftover salmon is great in rice bowls or salads
Not freezer-friendly once cooked, but the glaze can be pre-made and frozen
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, just make sure it’s fully thawed and patted dry before cooking.
How do I know when salmon is fully cooked?
It should flake easily with a fork and reach 145°F internal temperature.
Can I bake this instead?
Definitely! Bake at 400°F for 10–12 minutes or until flaky.
Is it safe to use foil in the air fryer?
Yes, as long as it doesn’t block the air flow. Line only the bottom.
What can I use instead of honey?
Maple syrup or agave nectar work well as sweet substitutes.
Can I make this ahead?
The glaze can be mixed ahead, but cook the salmon fresh for best results.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce to make it gluten-free.
Final Thoughts
This honey garlic air fryer salmon is one of those back-pocket recipes I turn to again and again.
It’s flavorful, quick, and always feels a little special—even when dinner needs to be fast.
The sauce alone is magic, and the air fryer makes cleanup a dream.
Try it once, and you’ll have it on regular rotation too!
Honey Garlic Air Fryer Salmon
Ingredients
- 2 salmon filets 6–8 ounces each
- ⅓ cup honey
- ¼ cup soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free
- 4 garlic cloves minced (or 1 tsp garlic powder)
- Kosher salt and fresh ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, and garlic.
- Pat salmon dry and season with salt and pepper.
- Line the air fryer basket with foil and preheat to 400°F for 3 minutes.
- Place salmon in the basket and pour glaze evenly over each filet.
- If using minced garlic, place it around—not on top of—the salmon.
- Cook for 4–8 minutes, depending on filet thickness and air fryer model.
- See full steps with tips & photos → https://mischacrossing.com/quick-honey-garlic-air-fryer-salmon/
Notes
- Thinner filets cook faster—check at 4 minutes and add more time if needed.
- You can reduce the glaze in a small saucepan for a thicker sauce.
- Skin-on filets hold together better but can be removed after cooking if preferred.
