Name: Brown Sugar Air Fryer Salmon
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: ¼ tsp black pepper; ¼ tsp salt; ½ tsp paprika; 1 tbsp chopped parsley (optional); 1 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp lemon juice; 2 tbsp brown sugar; 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)

This Brown Sugar Air Fryer Salmon features tender salmon with a sweet, caramelized glaze. Perfect as a quick main dish, it’s an easy recipe that blends rich sweetness with a healthy, crispy finish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This brown sugar air fryer salmon is a delicious, healthy dish that transforms tender salmon into a sweet, caramelized delight with a rich glaze, offering a perfect balance of flavor and texture. Quick to prepare and ideal for busy schedules, it’s versatile—pair with veggies or rice—and packed with omega-3s. The air fryer’s efficiency delivers a guilt-free indulgence with minimal oil, making it a go-to for a nutritious, tasty meal.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

Pat Salmon Dry: Removes moisture for a better glaze.
Coat Evenly: Press brown sugar mixture firmly for maximum flavor.
Don’t Overcrowd: Arrange in a single layer for even cooking.
Preheat Air Fryer: Ensures a crispy start.
Check Doneness: Salmon should flake easily with a fork.
Use Dark Brown Sugar: Adds deeper caramel notes.
Avoid Overcooking: Monitor to keep it moist.
Cool Slightly: Prevents sticking to the basket.
Serve Warm: Maximizes the sweet-salty contrast.
Store Crisp: Reheat to restore texture if needed.

Yield: 4 servings

Brown Sugar Air Fryer Salmon

Sweet brown sugar glazed salmon, healthy air fryer main dish.

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 10 minutes

Additional Time 5 minutes

Total Time 25 minutes

Ingredients

¼ tsp black pepper
¼ tsp salt
½ tsp paprika
1 tbsp chopped parsley (optional)
1 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp lemon juice
2 tbsp brown sugar
4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)

Instructions

Prep the Salmon: Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels and place on a plate.
Make the Glaze: In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, soy sauce, garlic powder, paprika, black pepper, salt, and lemon juice until well combined.
Coat the Salmon: Brush olive oil over the salmon fillets, then spread the glaze mixture evenly over the top, pressing it in gently.
Preheat Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 400°F and let it preheat for 3 minutes.
Arrange in Basket: Place the glazed salmon fillets skin-side down in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
Air Fry: Cook for 7-10 minutes until the salmon flakes easily and the glaze is caramelized, avoiding the need to flip.
Check Doneness: Ensure the internal temperature reaches 145°F or the flesh flakes with a fork.
Rest the Salmon: Remove from the air fryer and let rest for 5 minutes to lock in juices.
Garnish: Sprinkle chopped parsley (if using) over the top for a fresh finish.
Serve and Enjoy: Serve warm and savor this sweet, savory delight!

Notes

Pat salmon dry for a better glaze; press mixture firmly.
Avoid overcrowding for even cooking; adjust sweetness to taste.
Store leftovers promptly to maintain freshness; reheat to restore crispness.
This recipe can be adapted for gluten-free or low-carb diets with appropriate swaps.

Nutrition Information

Yield

Serving Size

1
Amount Per Serving Calories 791Total Fat 47gSaturated Fat 9gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 34gCholesterol 224mgSodium 493mgCarbohydrates 7gFiber 0gSugar 5gProtein 79g

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 (4, 6 oz each): Skin-on or skinless, fresh for best results.
Brown Sugar (2 tbsp): Dark for rich caramel flavor.
Soy Sauce (1 tbsp): Low-sodium for umami balance.
Garlic Powder (1 tsp): Enhances savory depth.
Paprika (½ tsp): Adds a subtle smokiness.
Black Pepper (¼ tsp): Enhances seasoning.
Olive Oil (1 tbsp): Light coating for air frying.
Lemon Juice (1 tsp): Brightens the glaze.
Salt (¼ tsp): Enhances flavor; adjust to taste.
Parsley (1 tbsp, chopped, optional): For garnish.

Variations and Substitutions

Fish Swap: Use cod or trout; adjust cooking time.
Sweetener Swap: Replace brown sugar with maple syrup or honey.
Soy Sauce Alternative: Use tamari for gluten-free.
Spice Swap: Use smoked paprika or chili powder for a twist.
Oil Swap: Use avocado oil or omit for oil-free.
Citrus Swap: Use lime juice for a different tang.
Garnish Swap: Use green onions or sesame seeds instead of parsley.
Low-Sodium: Reduce or skip salt based on soy sauce.

Storage Options

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days; reheat in air fryer.
Freezer: Freeze cooked salmon for up to 1 month; thaw in fridge.
Reheating: Warm in air fryer at 350°F for 3-5 minutes.