Air Fryer Honey Mustard Glazed Salmon Recipe
If you’re hunting for a show-stopping yet wildly simple weeknight dinner, Air Fryer Honey Mustard Glazed Salmon may just become your favorite go-to recipe. Luscious salmon fillets are brushed with a sweet and tangy glaze, then cooked to perfection in the air fryer for a hands-off, juicy result you’ll crave again and again. The best part? Minimal prep, lightning-fast cook time, and an irresistible caramelized crust—all in under 20 minutes. This delectable dish combines the bold flavors of honey and mustard with the succulence of fresh salmon, making it a standout for both family dinners and effortless entertaining.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You won’t believe how easily a handful of staples creates the signature taste of Air Fryer Honey Mustard Glazed Salmon. Each ingredient enhances the overall flavor—some bring zip, others sweetness, and a couple even add that photo-worthy finishing touch.
- Salmon fillets: Choose skin-on or skinless fillets, about 6 ounces each, for maximum flavor and moisture retention.
- Dijon mustard: Lends a creamy, subtly spicy backbone to the glaze that balances the sweet notes.
- Whole grain mustard: Adds gorgeous texture and a pop of tangy complexity, making the glaze really special.
- Honey: Brings natural sweetness, a touch of stickiness, and that signature glistening finish.
- Olive oil: Ensures a silky glaze and helps the salmon stay moist while air frying.
- Lemon juice: Cuts through the richness of the salmon and emphasizes the fresh, zesty profile.
- Garlic powder: A whisper of savoriness that rounds out the glaze and brings a subtle depth.
- Salt: Enhances every other flavor—don’t skimp!
- Black pepper: Just enough warmth to keep every bite interesting.
- Chopped parsley and lemon wedges (optional): Add bright, herby notes and a splash of color for a lovely finish.
How to Make Air Fryer Honey Mustard Glazed Salmon
Step 1: Prepare the Signature Glaze
Start by whisking together the Dijon mustard, whole grain mustard, honey, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl. This dreamy honey mustard glaze comes together in just a minute, but infuses the salmon with a bold, balanced flavor. It’s silky, vibrant, and smells amazing.
Step 2: Ready Your Salmon
Pat your salmon fillets dry with paper towels, which helps the glaze cling perfectly and gives you that gorgeous, caramelized finish. With a generous hand, brush each fillet with a thick coating of the glaze, making sure every nook and cranny is covered—this is where all the magic happens!
Step 3: Preheat and Arrange
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3 minutes so the salmon hits high heat right away (crispy edges, here we come). Arrange your fillets in the basket, skin-side down if you are using skin-on salmon, and leave a little room between each piece for the best airflow and results.
Step 4: Air Fry to Juicy Perfection
Pop the basket into your air fryer and let the salmon cook for 8–10 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the salmon flakes easily with a fork and the glaze has bubbled into a glossy, golden topping. If your fillets are especially thick, give them an extra 1–2 minutes. Want extra flavor? Brush on more glaze as soon as they’re done.
Step 5: Finishing Touches
Garnish your salmon fillets with a sprinkle of chopped parsley and a couple of bright lemon wedges, if you like. Serve right away for the freshest flavor and texture—you’ll want to dive in while it’s piping hot!
How to Serve Air Fryer Honey Mustard Glazed Salmon
Garnishes
There’s nothing like a burst of fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon to make Air Fryer Honey Mustard Glazed Salmon pop. Chopped herbs add a lively hit of color, while lemon brings everything into sparkling balance—especially if you love a little tang with your sweet and savory notes.
Side Dishes
This vibrant main course pairs beautifully with fluffy rice, garlicky roasted vegetables, or a bright green salad. You can’t go wrong with classic sides that soak up the sweet-savory glaze, making every bite feel complete and comforting.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re feeling fun, try flaking the salmon over greens for a hearty salad, layering it into a sandwich with crisp veggies, or serving it on a platter family-style for a dinner party. Air Fryer Honey Mustard Glazed Salmon is as versatile as it is delicious, and always guaranteed to impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover Air Fryer Honey Mustard Glazed Salmon can be cooled, then stored in an airtight container in your fridge for up to 2 days. The glaze keeps the fish moist and tasty, perfect for lunch the next day or a quick, healthy snack.
Freezing
If you want to save your salmon for later, wrap fillets tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and pop them in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw them overnight in the fridge before using for the best texture and flavor retention.
Reheating
For juicy, tender leftovers, gently reheat the salmon in your air fryer or oven at 300°F for about 5 minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, which can dry out the fish. If you have extra glaze, brush it on before reheating for a little flavor boost.
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon fillets for Air Fryer Honey Mustard Glazed Salmon?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the fillets completely and pat them dry before glazing and air frying. This way, the glaze will stick properly and you’ll get that beautifully caramelized finish.
Is this recipe gluten-free and dairy-free?
Yes, Air Fryer Honey Mustard Glazed Salmon is naturally gluten-free and dairy-free. Just double-check your mustards and condiments to ensure there aren’t any sneaky additives if you have allergies.
How do I know when the salmon is perfectly cooked?
The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and is opaque all the way through. If you use an instant-read thermometer, you’re aiming for 125–130°F for medium.
Can I marinate the salmon ahead of time?
Definitely! For an even bolder flavor, marinate the salmon in the honey mustard glaze for 15–30 minutes before air frying. It’s ideal if you want to prep ahead for a fuss-free dinner.
What if I don’t have an air fryer?
No air fryer? No problem! You can bake the salmon in a 400°F oven on a lined baking sheet for about 12–15 minutes. You won’t get quite the same crisp glaze, but the flavor will still shine.
Final Thoughts
With quick prep, irresistible flavor, and a hands-off cooking method, Air Fryer Honey Mustard Glazed Salmon is truly a weeknight winner. Don’t be surprised if it becomes a regular in your dinner rotation—one bite, and you’ll see exactly why! Give it a try and watch everyone fall in love.
Print
Air Fryer Honey Mustard Glazed Salmon Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Air Fryer Honey Mustard Glazed Salmon recipe is a quick and delicious way to enjoy perfectly cooked salmon with a sweet and tangy glaze. The air fryer technique ensures a crispy exterior while keeping the salmon tender and moist inside.
Ingredients
Salmon:
- 4 salmon fillets (6 ounces each, skin on or off)
Honey Mustard Glaze:
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon whole grain mustard
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Garnish:
- Chopped parsley and lemon wedges for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together Dijon mustard, whole grain mustard, honey, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
- Coat the Salmon: Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels and brush generously with the honey mustard glaze.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3 minutes.
- Cook the Salmon: Place salmon fillets in the air fryer basket, skin-side down if applicable, and air fry for 8-10 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Thicker fillets may need an extra 1-2 minutes.
- Finish and Serve: Brush with additional glaze after cooking if desired. Garnish with chopped parsley and lemon wedges and serve immediately.
Notes
- For extra flavor, marinate the salmon in the glaze for 15-30 minutes before air frying.
- Pairs well with rice, roasted vegetables, or a light green salad.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 salmon fillet
- Calories: 315
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 370mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
