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Hot Honey Air Fryer Salmon Recipe
Ash Tyrrell

Hot Honey Air Fryer Salmon Recipe

I recently whipped up this hot honey air fryer salmon on a busy weeknight, and I’m still amazed at how good it turned out. The salmon came out tender, flaky, and perfectly coated with a sweet-spicy glaze that made every bite irresistible.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • Salmon filets – about 1 lb skinless and cut into bite-sized cubes (skinless works better for even cooking).
  • Hot honey – 3 tablespoons gives that sweet heat kick (use your favorite brand or homemade).
  • Kosher salt – ½ teaspoon for enhancing natural flavor.
  • Garlic powder – ½ teaspoon adds depth without overpowering.
  • Paprika – ½ teaspoon gives a smoky and slightly sweet note.
  • Black pepper – ¼ teaspoon balances the sweetness with mild spice.
  • Olive oil – 1 teaspoon helps caramelize the edges in the air fryer.

Method
 

  1. If using frozen salmon, thaw it overnight in the fridge or in cold water for about 30 minutes. Pat it dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Slice into bite-sized cubes so they cook evenly in the air fryer.
  2. Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and let it preheat for a few minutes. This helps the salmon start cooking immediately for a crisp exterior. You can line the basket with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
  3. Place salmon cubes in a mixing bowl. Drizzle with hot honey and toss until evenly coated. Sprinkle with salt, garlic powder, paprika, and black pepper. Add olive oil and toss gently again to ensure each piece is seasoned well.
  4. Arrange the salmon cubes in a single layer in the air fryer basket without overcrowding. Cook for 5–7 minutes, flipping halfway through. The salmon should be slightly caramelized outside but still tender and juicy inside.
  5. Remove salmon from the air fryer and let it rest for a minute. This allows the flavors to settle. Serve hot with your choice of sides—rice, veggies, or inside wraps for a quick meal.

Notes

  • Use skinless salmon—it’s easier to cube and cooks evenly.
  • Don’t skip patting the salmon dry—it helps the seasoning stick.
  • Taste your hot honey first—some are sweeter, others spicier, so adjust seasoning accordingly.
  • Avoid overcrowding the air fryer—cook in batches if needed for even crisping.