Air Fryer Sockeye Salmon Recipe

Looking for a healthy, flavorful way to cook sockeye salmon with minimal cleanup? This Slow Cooker Air Fryer Sockeye Salmon recipe delivers tender, flaky fish with a crispy exterior—all without turning on your oven. Perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend dinner, this method combines the best of both worlds: the gentle cooking of a slow cooker and the crisp finish of an air fryer.

Air Fryer Sockeye Salmon Recipe

Recipe by Chef Sadat KhizarCourse: MainCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy

Servings

2

servings

Prep time

5

minutes

Cooking time

10

minutes

Calories

350

kcal

Air Fryer Sockeye Salmon Recipe

Ingredients

• 2 Sockeye salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

• Lemon wedges

• Fresh parsley

Directions

• Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
• Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
• Rub each fillet with olive oil on both sides.
• Sprinkle garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper evenly over both sides of the salmon.
• Place the salmon fillets in the air fryer basket, skin-side down, ensuring they are not overlapping.
  
• Air fry the salmon for 8-10 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) and the fish easily flakes with a fork.
• Carefully remove the salmon from the air fryer and serve with lemon wedges and fresh parsley.

Recipe Video

Serving Suggestions

Pair your slow cooker air fryer sockeye salmon with:

• Roasted vegetables like asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or carrots
• A quinoa or wild rice pilaf for a hearty base
• Lemon herb yogurt sauce or a light dill aioli
• Fresh green salad with a citrus vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast
• Warm garlic bread or crusty rolls for a more indulgent plate

For a low-carb version, serve it with cauliflower rice and steamed greens.

class="wp-block-heading">Savings Suggestions

Want to enjoy sockeye salmon without breaking the bank? Here are some smart tips:

• Buy frozen: Frozen wild-caught sockeye salmon is often more affordable than fresh and has nearly the same nutritional value.
• Shop seasonally: Sockeye is usually cheaper during peak season (summer months), so stock up and freeze.
• Use bulk spices or marinades: Make your own rubs or marinades from pantry staples to avoid pricey pre-made sauces.
• Portion wisely: One fillet can often be stretched into two servings when paired with hearty sides.
• Buy in bulk: Warehouse clubs or local fish markets often offer better deals for larger quantities.

class="wp-block-heading">FAQs

Can I cook salmon completely in the slow cooker without using the air fryer?
Yes, but you’ll miss out on the crispy texture. The slow cooker will yield moist, flaky salmon on its own. If you skip the air fryer, broil the salmon for 2–3 minutes instead for some crispiness.

What temperature should I air fry salmon after slow cooking?
Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for about 5–7 minutes until the edges are crisp and lightly browned.

Can I use skin-on salmon for this recipe?
Absolutely. The skin helps retain moisture during cooking. It can be crisped up in the air fryer or removed after cooking if preferred.

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Can I add vegetables to the slow cooker with the salmon?
Yes! Try layering sliced onions, bell peppers, or zucchini beneath the salmon to cook in its juices.