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Maple glazed salmon served with asparagus and lemon on a dinner plate
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Maple Glazed Air Fryer Salmon - Fast, Flavorful, and Foolproof

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

Ingredients

  • Salmon fillets (4 fillets, 5–6 ounces each; skin-on or skinless)
  • Pure maple syrup (not pancake syrup; 3 tablespoons)
  • Soy sauce or tamari (2 tablespoons; use low-sodium if preferred)
  • Dijon mustard (1 tablespoon)
  • Fresh garlic (2 cloves, minced) or 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Lemon (zest and 1 tablespoon juice)
  • Olive oil or avocado oil (1 tablespoon)
  • Black pepper (to taste)
  • Kosher salt (to taste; go light if using regular soy sauce)
  • Red pepper flakes (optional, a pinch for heat)
  • Sesame seeds and/or chopped parsley (optional for garnish)
  • Lemon wedges (for serving)

Instructions

  • Preheat the air fryer to 390°F (200°C) for 3–5 minutes. A hot basket helps the glaze caramelize and the salmon cook evenly.
  • Pat the salmon dry. Use paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps the glaze stick and prevents steaming.
  • Make the glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, soy sauce, Dijon, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, oil, black pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like heat.
  • Season lightly with salt. Taste the glaze. If your soy sauce is salty, add just a small pinch of salt to the salmon or skip it entirely.
  • Coat the salmon. Brush or spoon about two-thirds of the glaze over the tops and sides of the fillets. Reserve the rest for basting later.
  • Prep the basket. Lightly spray the air fryer basket or line it with perforated parchment made for air fryers. Avoid regular parchment that can block airflow.
  • Air fry, skin-side down. Place fillets in a single layer with a little space between them. Cook for 6 minutes.
  • Baste and finish. Open the basket, brush with the remaining glaze, and cook 2–4 more minutes. Aim for 125–130°F internal temperature for medium, or 145°F if you prefer fully cooked.
  • Rest briefly. Let the salmon sit for 2–3 minutes. This keeps it juicy and lets the glaze set.
  • Garnish and serve. Sprinkle with sesame seeds or parsley if you like. Add lemon wedges on the side. Serve with rice, quinoa, or steamed veggies.