Smoky Paprika Air Fryer Salmon

This Smoky Paprika Air Fryer Salmon features tender salmon with a smoky, spiced crust. Perfect for a healthy dinner, it’s a quick recipe that blends bold flavors with a crispy texture using minimal oil for a nutritious meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This smoky paprika air fryer salmon is a nutritious, healthy dinner idea that transforms tender salmon into a bold, smoky delight with a spiced crust, perfect for a flavorful main course. Quick to prepare with minimal oil, it’s packed with omega-3s and protein. Versatile—pair with veggies or enjoy solo—this recipe offers a guilt-free indulgence that’s both delicious and wholesome.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

• Use Fresh Salmon: Ensures best texture and flavor.
• Pat Dry: Removes moisture for a crisp crust.
• Preheat Air Fryer: Helps achieve a golden finish.
• Don’t Overcrowd: Allows air circulation for even cooking.
• Check Doneness: Salmon should flake easily with a fork.
• Serve Immediately: Maximizes the crispy texture.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste and tweak salt to preference.
• Light Oil Coating: Enhances crispiness without excess fat.
• Avoid Overcooking: Prevents dryness.
• Rest Briefly: Allows flavors to settle.

Yield: 6 servings

Smoky Paprika Air Fryer Salmon

Print

Smoky paprika salmon, crispy air fryer dinner.

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 12 minutes

Additional Time 5 minutes

Total Time 27 minutes

Ingredients

• ¼ cup panko breadcrumbs
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 large egg
• 1 tbsp chopped parsley
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1.5 lbs salmon fillets

Instructions

1. Prep the Salmon: Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels and season lightly with salt.
2. Set Up Breading Station: In one bowl, beat the egg. In another, mix smoked paprika, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, and black pepper.
3. Coat with Egg: Dip each salmon fillet in the beaten egg, letting excess drip off.
4. Add Paprika Crust: Press the egg-coated salmon into the paprika mixture until fully covered.
5. Preheat Air Fryer: Set the air fryer to 400°F and preheat for 3 minutes.
6. Arrange in Basket: Lightly brush salmon with olive oil and place in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
7. Cook the Salmon: Air fry for 10-12 minutes, checking halfway, until the crust is golden and salmon flakes easily.
8. Check Doneness: Ensure the internal temperature reaches 145°F and the top is crispy.
9. Add Finishing Touch: Remove from the air fryer, drizzle with lemon juice, and sprinkle with chopped parsley. Let rest for 5 minutes.
10. Serve and Enjoy: Serve warm as a delightful main, and savor the smoky, spiced goodness!

Notes

• Use fresh salmon for best texture; pat dry for a crisp crust.
• Preheat air fryer for optimal results; avoid overcrowding for even cooking.
• 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

6

Serving Size

1
Amount Per Serving Calories 289Total Fat 17gSaturated Fat 3gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 13gCholesterol 102mgSodium 310mgCarbohydrates 5gFiber 1gSugar 0gProtein 27g

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

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Ingredients Notes

• Salmon Fillets (1.5 lbs): Skin-on or skinless for tenderness.
• Smoked Paprika (1 tbsp): For smoky depth.
• Olive Oil (1 tbsp): Extra virgin for light coating.
• Garlic Powder (1 tsp): For aromatic flavor.
• Black Pepper (½ tsp): Ground for a subtle kick.
• Salt (½ tsp): Enhances flavor; adjust to taste.
• Lemon Juice (1 tbsp): Fresh for a bright finish.
• Panko Breadcrumbs (¼ cup): For extra crunch.
• Egg (1 large): Beaten for binding.
• Parsley (1 tbsp, chopped): Fresh for garnish.

Variations and Substitutions

• Fish Swap: Use cod or tilapia; adjust cooking time.
• Spice Swap: Replace smoked paprika with chili powder.
• Oil Swap: Use avocado oil or cooking spray.
• Breadcrumbs Swap: Use almond flour for gluten-free.
• Egg Swap: Use milk or flax egg for binding.
• Citrus Swap: Use lime juice instead of lemon.
• Herb Swap: Use cilantro instead of parsley.
• Low-Sodium: Reduce or skip salt based on ingredients.

Storage Options

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days; reheat in air fryer.
• Freezer: Freeze cooked salmon for up to 1 month; thaw in fridge.
• Reheating: Warm at 350°F for 3-5 minutes to restore crispness.

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Until you can read, Simple Air Fryer Asparagus with Lemon Zest