There’s something about sweet tangy glaze meeting flaky fish that just works. Air Fryer Honey Mustard Salmon gives you that restaurant-quality sear without heating up your whole kitchen and it’s ready in under 15 minutes.
I’ve been testing salmon recipes since my CIA days, and this one surprised me back in 2019 when I swapped my sheet pan for the air fryer. The circulating heat locks in moisture while crisping those edges just enough my tester noted it tasted “like I ordered it out.” It’s become my go-to for busy weeknights when I want something nourishing that doesn’t feel like work.
Joe Rooney
Air Fryer Honey Mustard Salmon Recipe Easy and Quick
Enjoy a deliciously sweet and tangy Air Fryer Honey Mustard Salmon that cooks in just 8 minutes. This quick and easy recipe delivers tender, flavorful salmon glazed with a honey mustard sauce, perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner.
Stir together honey, mustard, garlic powder, smoked paprika, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to make the glaze.
Coat the salmon fillets in about two-thirds of the honey mustard mixture and let them marinate for 30 minutes, or toss until fully coated.
Heat the air fryer to 400°F.
Arrange the salmon fillets in the air fryer basket and brush the remaining glaze over the top.
Cook the salmon for 7 to 8 minutes, adjusting time for thickness.
Serve immediately, drizzling with any leftover sauce and garnishing with chopped parsley if desired.
Notes
If your air fryer doesn’t have a preheat option, run it at 400°F for 5 minutes before cooking the salmon for even results. For a bit of spice, sprinkle red pepper flakes into the marinade. For more tips and substitutions, see the recipe tips section.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This is the kind of weeknight dinner that feels like a treat but doesn’t ask much of you. The glaze does all the heavy lifting sweet honey, tangy mustard, a little smoky warmth from paprika and the air fryer gives you perfectly cooked salmon without babysitting a pan.
Lightning fast: From fridge to table in 10 minutes, with just 8 minutes of actual cook time
Minimal cleanup: No splattered stovetop or sheet pans to scrub just your air fryer basket
Beginner-proof: The circulating heat means you won’t overcook or dry out your fish, even if you’re new to salmon
Health-friendly: Packed with omega-3s and lean protein, this feels nourishing without tasting like diet food
What You’ll Need
The ingredient list is short and grocery-store simple. You probably have most of this in your pantry already and if not, everything’s easy to grab on your next run.
For the glaze: honey brings sweetness, whole grain Dijon mustard adds tang and texture, garlic powder and smoked paprika layer in depth, and a squeeze of lemon juice brightens it all up. Salt and pepper round it out. If you want to finish with fresh parsley, it’s a nice touch but totally optional.
Ingredient
Why It Matters
Honey
Balances the tang, helps the glaze caramelize slightly
Whole grain Dijon mustard
Adds texture and a bold, tangy backbone
Garlic powder
Savory depth without the fuss of fresh garlic
Smoked paprika
Subtle smokiness that mimics grilling
Lemon juice
Brightens the glaze, cuts through richness
How to Make It
Start by whisking together your honey, mustard, garlic powder, smoked paprika, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Toss your salmon fillets in about two-thirds of that mixture and let them soak up the flavor for 30 minutes if you have time or just coat them well and move right along if you’re in a rush.
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F. Nestle the salmon fillets inside, then brush on the rest of the marinade. Air fry for 7 to 8 minutes depending on thickness thinner fillets lean toward 7, thicker ones closer to 8. You’ll know they’re done when the glaze is glossy and the fish flakes easily with a fork.
Pro Tip: If your air fryer doesn’t have a preheat button, just run it empty at 400°F for 5 minutes before adding the salmon. That ensures even cooking from the start.
Serving and Storage
Serve this warm, straight from the basket. It pairs beautifully with roasted veggies, a simple salad, or even rice if you want something heartier. A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds color and a little freshness, but it’s not essential.
Leftovers hold up well store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the air fryer at 350°F for 3 to 4 minutes, or enjoy cold flaked over greens for lunch the next day.
Storage
How Long
Best Method
Refrigerator
Up to 2 days
Airtight container, reheat at 350°F for 3–4 minutes
Freezer
Not recommended
Texture changes; best enjoyed fresh
Tips and Swaps
Want a little kick? Toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes with the glaze it plays nicely with the sweetness. If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika works just fine; you’ll lose a hint of depth, but the flavor still lands.
Thicker fillets closer to 8 ounces may need an extra minute or two. Keep an eye on the internal temp if you have a thermometer you’re aiming for 145°F at the thickest part. And if your air fryer runs hot, start checking at the 6-minute mark to avoid overcooking.
Note: This recipe shines with skin-on or skinless fillets, but if you’re using skin-on, place them skin-side down for the crispiest result.
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FAQs ( Air Fryer Honey Mustard Salmon )
What temperature should I cook the salmon at?
Set your air fryer to 400°F for perfectly cooked salmon. This temperature ensures the fish cooks evenly while developing a beautiful caramelized glaze. Most fillets will be done in 8-12 minutes depending on thickness.
How long does it take to cook?
Cook for 8-10 minutes for standard 1-inch thick fillets. Thicker pieces may need 12-14 minutes. Check for an internal temperature of 145°F and flaky texture. The glaze should be golden and slightly caramelized.
Should I flip the salmon while cooking?
No need to flip the salmon during cooking. The air fryer’s circulation cooks it evenly from all sides. Simply brush with more glaze halfway through if you want extra flavor and shine.
Can I use frozen salmon fillets?
Yes, but thaw completely first and pat very dry. Frozen fillets release excess moisture that prevents proper browning. Add 2-3 extra minutes to cooking time and check internal temperature reaches 145°F.
What sides pair well with this dish?
Roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts complement the sweet-tangy flavors perfectly. Rice pilaf, quinoa, or garlic mashed potatoes also work wonderfully. Keep sides simple to let the glazed fish shine.
You Just Made Restaurant-Quality Salmon at Home
You’ll love how this Air Fryer Honey Mustard Salmon turns out flaky, glossy, and ready in under 10 minutes. The glaze caramelizes beautifully while the fish stays tender inside. It’s the kind of weeknight win that feels special without any fuss.
Want a little heat? Add a pinch of cayenne to the glaze next time. Leftovers are fantastic flaked over mixed greens with a drizzle of olive oil, or tucked into a grain bowl with roasted veggies. Resting the salmon for just a minute after cooking makes all the difference in keeping it moist.
If you make this, I’d love to see your plate tag me or drop a comment with how it turned out. Did you serve it with rice, roasted broccoli, or something totally different? Save this one for your next busy night when you need dinner to feel like a hug. Happy cooking, friend.
