Sweet Chili Air Fryer Salmon
This Sweet Chili Air Fryer Salmon is a quick, flavorful dinner option, combining succulent salmon with a tangy, sweet chili glaze. Ready in under 20 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights, delivering a healthy, restaurant-quality meal with minimal effort, all cooked to perfection in your air fryer.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Sweet Chili Air Fryer Salmon is a game-changer for seafood lovers and busy home cooks alike. The air fryer ensures a crispy exterior while keeping the salmon tender and flaky inside. The sweet chili glaze, with its perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and tangy notes, elevates the dish to gourmet status without requiring hours in the kitchen. It’s a healthy, protein-packed meal that’s low in carbs and high in omega-3s, making it ideal for those seeking nutritious yet delicious dinners. Plus, the minimal cleanup and quick cooking time make it a stress-free option for weeknight meals or impressing guests with minimal effort.
Recipe Tips and Tricks
- Pat the Salmon Dry: Before seasoning, pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels to ensure a crispy exterior.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Air Fryer: Place salmon in a single layer for even cooking and optimal crispiness.
- Check Doneness Early: Air fryers vary, so check salmon at the 6-minute mark to avoid overcooking.
- Brush Glaze Lightly: Apply the sweet chili glaze sparingly at first to prevent burning, then add more after cooking for extra flavor.
- Use Parchment Liners: For easier cleanup, use air fryer-safe parchment paper or liners.
- Adjust Spice Level: If sensitive to heat, reduce the chili sauce or opt for a milder version.
Sweet Chili Air Fryer Salmon
Sweet Chili Air Fryer Salmon: tender, flaky salmon with a sweet-spicy glaze, ready in under 20 minutes for a healthy dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp fresh lime juice
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp minced fresh ginger
- 1 tsp minced garlic
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
- 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
- 4 salmon fillets (4-6 oz each), skin-on or skinless
- Optional: sesame seeds and chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 400°F and let it preheat for 3 minutes to ensure even cooking.
- Prepare the Salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture for a crispy result.
- Make the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, honey, lime juice, garlic, and ginger until smooth.
- Season the Salmon: Lightly brush the salmon fillets with olive oil and season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Apply the Glaze: Brush a thin layer of the sweet chili glaze over the top of each fillet, reserving some for later.
- Arrange in Air Fryer: Place the fillets in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they don’t overlap.
- Cook the Salmon: Air fry at 400°F for 6-8 minutes, depending on thickness, until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
- Check Doneness: Use a fork to check if the salmon is opaque and flakes easily; avoid overcooking to keep it tender.
- Add More Glaze: Brush the remaining glaze over the cooked salmon for extra flavor and a glossy finish.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with sesame seeds and scallions, then serve hot with rice, veggies, or a fresh salad.
Notes
- Ensure salmon is at room temperature for 10 minutes before cooking for even results.
- If using frozen salmon, thaw completely in the fridge overnight to avoid uneven cooking.
- Adjust glaze sweetness or heat by tweaking honey or chili sauce to taste.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 596Total Fat 35gSaturated Fat 6gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 25gCholesterol 143mgSodium 400mgCarbohydrates 16gFiber 1gSugar 13gProtein 52g
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 for the best texture and flavor; frozen works too, just thaw completely first.
- Sweet Chili Sauce: Choose a high-quality brand for a balanced sweet-spicy flavor; homemade versions allow customization of heat and sweetness.
- Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce adds umami without overwhelming saltiness; tamari is a great gluten-free alternative.
- Garlic and Ginger: Freshly minced garlic and ginger provide vibrant flavor; pre-minced versions save time but may be less potent.
- Honey: A touch of honey enhances sweetness and helps caramelize the glaze; maple syrup can substitute for a different depth.
- Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice adds brightness; bottled juice works in a pinch but lacks the same zest.
- Olive Oil: A light coating of olive oil promotes crispiness; avocado oil is a good high-heat alternative.
Variations and Substitutions
For dietary needs or flavor twists, this recipe is highly adaptable. Swap salmon for trout or cod for a different fishy flair, though cooking times may vary slightly. For a gluten-free version, use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce. If you prefer less heat, substitute sweet chili sauce with a mix of honey and a mild hot sauce. Vegetarians can try this glaze on tofu or thick portobello mushroom slices, air-fried until golden. For a low-carb keto option, ensure your chili sauce is sugar-free or make your own with a sweetener like erythritol. Add sesame seeds or chopped scallions post-cooking for extra texture and visual appeal.
Storage Options
- Refrigerator: Store leftover salmon in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the air fryer at 300°F for 3-4 minutes to maintain texture.
- Freezer: Freeze cooked salmon in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Meal Prep: Prepare the glaze ahead and store it in the fridge for up to a week for quick assembly.
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