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Crispy Air Fryer Chili-Salted Salmon

This dish features salmon fillets cooked in an air fryer to achieve a crackly, golden crust with a smoky chili flavor. The process involves seasoning the fish, preheating the air fryer, and cooking until the skin is irresistibly crispy and the flesh is tender and flaky. The result is a visually appealing, flavorful salmon with a satisfying texture and a hint of spice.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 2
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Fusion
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • 2 fillets salmon fillets preferably skin-on
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder smoked or mild
  • 0.5 teaspoon salt to enhance flavor
  • 1 light olive oil spray for crisping
  • 1 lemon lemon for zest and juice
  • optional garlic powder or cumin for extra depth
  • a handful fresh herbs like cilantro, chopped

Equipment

  • Air fryer
  • Paper towels
  • Measuring spoons

Method
 

  1. Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve crispiness.
  2. Sprinkle chili powder and salt evenly over both sides of each fillet, pressing gently to adhere the spices and enhance flavor.
  3. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3-5 minutes, ensuring even cooking and crispy results.
  4. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil spray to prevent sticking and promote crispness.
  5. Lay the seasoned fillets skin-side down in the preheated air fryer basket, making sure they aren’t touching for even airflow.
  6. Cook the salmon for 8-10 minutes, checking around the 8-minute mark for a golden, crackly crust and opaque flesh.
  7. Once cooked, carefully remove the fillets from the air fryer and transfer to a serving plate.
  8. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the crispy salmon, then sprinkle with chopped herbs for a bright, fresh finish.
  9. Serve immediately with your favorite sides, enjoying the crackling crust and tender, flavorful flesh.