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Air fryer sweet chili salmon with a flaky tender salmon fillet, glossy sweet chili glaze, fresh cilantro garnish, and lemon wedge, served as a flavorful and easy weeknight seafood dinner.
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Air Fryer Sweet Chili Salmon - Fast, Flavorful, and Weeknight-Friendly

Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time10 minutes
Total Time20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 4 salmon fillets (about 5–6 oz each; skin-on or skinless)
  • 1/3 cup sweet chili sauce (Asian-style, store-bought)
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice (plus extra wedges for serving)
  • 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (or 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger)
  • 1 small garlic clove, finely minced (or 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder)
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
  • 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt (adjust to taste)
  • Black pepper to taste
  • Cooking oil spray (for the basket)
  • Garnishes: sliced green onions, sesame seeds, cilantro (optional)

Instructions

  • Preheat the air fryer: Set it to 390–400°F (200°C). A hot basket helps the glaze caramelize and prevents sticking.
  • Mix the glaze: In a small bowl, whisk sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, lime juice, sesame oil, ginger, garlic, and red pepper flakes. Taste and adjust. It should be sweet, tangy, and a little spicy.
  • Prep the salmon: Pat the fillets dry with paper towels. Season lightly with salt and black pepper. Dry fish browns better and helps the sauce stick.
  • Oil the basket: Lightly spray the air fryer basket or place a piece of parchment designed for air fryers. Don’t block the vents.
  • Glaze the fillets: Brush about half the glaze over the tops and sides of the salmon. Reserve the rest for basting and serving.
  • Air fry, skin-side down: Arrange fillets in a single layer with space between them. Cook for 6 minutes.
  • Baste and finish: Open the basket, brush on more glaze, and cook 2–4 more minutes, depending on thickness. Aim for an internal temp of 125–130°F for medium, or 145°F for well done. The salmon should flake easily.
  • Rest briefly: Let the salmon sit 2 minutes. This keeps it juicy and helps the glaze set.
  • Garnish and serve: Spoon a bit of the remaining glaze over the top. Add green onions, sesame seeds, and cilantro. Serve with lime wedges.