Name: Air Fryer Orange Glazed Salmon
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 clove garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon cornstarch; 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger; 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 2 tablespoons honey; 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce; 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each), skin-on or skinless; Optional: orange slices and parsley for garnish

This Air Fryer Orange Glazed Salmon is a delightful blend of zesty citrus and savory flavors, creating a succulent dish that’s both healthy and indulgent. Perfectly cooked in just minutes, the salmon’s tender, flaky texture is enhanced by a vibrant orange glaze, making it an easy yet elegant meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Air Fryer Orange Glazed Salmon is a game-changer for seafood lovers and busy cooks alike. The air fryer delivers perfectly cooked salmon with a crispy exterior and juicy interior in under 10 minutes, saving you time without sacrificing flavor. The orange glaze, with its bright, tangy notes balanced by a hint of sweetness and umami, elevates the dish to restaurant-quality status. It’s a healthy option, packed with omega-3s and protein, yet feels like a gourmet treat. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or preparing a quick weeknight meal, this recipe is versatile, foolproof, and sure to impress with minimal effort.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

Pat the Salmon Dry: Remove excess moisture from the salmon fillets with paper towels before seasoning to ensure a crispy exterior.
Don’t Overcrowd the Air Fryer: Place salmon fillets in a single layer with space between them for even cooking and optimal air circulation.
Check Doneness Early: Air fryers vary, so check the salmon’s internal temperature (145°F) after 6 minutes to avoid overcooking.
Baste Mid-Cooking: Brush additional glaze halfway through cooking for a more intense orange flavor and glossy finish.
Use Parchment Liners: Line the air fryer basket with parchment for easier cleanup without affecting crispiness.
Rest Before Serving: Let the salmon rest for 2-3 minutes after cooking to allow juices to redistribute for maximum tenderness.

Yield: Serves 4

Air Fryer Orange Glazed Salmon

Zesty orange-glazed salmon, air-fried to flaky perfection in minutes, delivers a healthy, flavorful meal with minimal effort.

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 8 minutes

Additional Time 2 minutes

Total Time 20 minutes

Ingredients

1 clove garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon cornstarch
1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons honey
2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
4 salmon fillets (6 oz each), skin-on or skinless
Optional: orange slices and parsley for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Glaze: In a small saucepan, whisk together orange juice, soy sauce, honey, garlic, ginger, and cornstarch over medium heat. Stir until the mixture thickens, about 2-3 minutes, then set aside to cool slightly. Your kitchen will smell amazing already!
Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 400°F and let it preheat for 3 minutes. This ensures the salmon cooks evenly and gets that perfect crispy edge.
Prep the Salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Brush both sides lightly with olive oil and sprinkle with black pepper. This step locks in moisture and flavor.
Arrange in Air Fryer: Place the salmon fillets in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they don’t overlap. Space is key for that golden, crispy finish!
Brush with Glaze: Generously brush the tops of the salmon fillets with half of the orange glaze. Save the rest for basting and serving—it’s liquid gold!
Air Fry the Salmon: Cook at 400°F for 6-8 minutes, depending on thickness. Check for an internal temperature of 145°F or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
Baste Mid-Cooking: After 4 minutes, pause the air fryer and brush the salmon with more glaze. This adds extra flavor and a gorgeous, glossy look.
Rest the Salmon: Remove the fillets from the air fryer and let them rest for 2 minutes. This keeps them juicy and tender.
Garnish and Serve: Drizzle any remaining glaze over the salmon. Garnish with orange slices and parsley for a vibrant, restaurant-worthy presentation.
Enjoy Immediately: Serve your orange-glazed salmon with steamed veggies, rice, or a fresh salad. Savor the citrusy, savory goodness with every bite!

Notes

Ensure your air fryer is clean to avoid imparting unwanted flavors to the salmon.
For thicker fillets, add 1-2 minutes to the cooking time, checking doneness to avoid drying out.
If using frozen salmon, thaw completely in the fridge overnight for best results.
The glaze can double as a dipping sauce if you make extra—your guests will love it!

Nutrition Information

Yield

Serving Size

1
Amount Per Serving Calories 835Total Fat 47gSaturated Fat 9gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 34gCholesterol 224mgSodium 481mgCarbohydrates 18gFiber 1gSugar 14gProtein 80g

The recipes and nutritional information on Yum Tonight are for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized dietary advice.

Ingredients Notes

Salmon Fillets: Opt for fresh, center-cut salmon fillets (about 6 oz each) for uniform cooking and rich flavor. Wild-caught salmon offers a deeper taste, but farm-raised works well too.
Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed orange juice provides the brightest flavor; avoid bottled juice with added sugars for a cleaner taste.
Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce balances the glaze’s sweetness and adds umami depth. Tamari is a great gluten-free alternative.
Honey: Pure honey adds natural sweetness to the glaze, complementing the citrus. Maple syrup can be a substitute.
Garlic and Ginger: Freshly minced garlic and grated ginger elevate the glaze with warmth and zest; avoid powdered versions for best results.
Olive Oil: A light coating of olive oil ensures the salmon stays moist and promotes crispiness in the air fryer.
Cornstarch: A small amount thickens the glaze, giving it a glossy, sticky texture that clings beautifully to the salmon.

Variations and Substitutions

Citrus Swap: Replace orange juice with lemon or grapefruit juice for a different citrus profile, adjusting honey to balance tartness.
Sweetener Alternatives: Swap honey with agave nectar or brown sugar for a slightly different sweetness intensity.
Gluten-Free Option: Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free glaze without sacrificing flavor.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the glaze for a sweet-spicy twist.
Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like cilantro or dill into the glaze or as a garnish for added freshness.
Vegan Version: Substitute salmon with thick tofu slices, adjusting cooking time to achieve a crispy exterior.

Storage Options

Refrigerator: Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 300°F for 3-4 minutes to restore texture.
Freezer: Freeze cooked salmon (without glaze) in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Glaze Storage: Store extra glaze in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 1 week; reheat gently before using.