The Air Fryer Honey Mustard Salmon Recipe is an absolute game-changer if you love salmon but want a quick, flavorful meal that feels both special and fuss-free. This recipe combines the sweetness of honey and the tangy kick of whole grain Dijon mustard, creating a luscious glaze that crisps perfectly on the outside while keeping the salmon tender and juicy inside. Using an air fryer makes cooking fast and mess-free, so you can have a gourmet dinner on the table in under 15 minutes, even on busy weeknights. Trust me, once you try this dish, it will become your go-to way to enjoy salmon with that perfect balance of sweet, savory, and smoky notes.

A white round plate holds a cooked salmon fillet on the right side, with a crispy, browned, and slightly shiny texture, lightly sprinkled with green herbs. A small section at the bottom right of the salmon is flaked and separated, showing the tender light pink inside. On the left side of the plate, there is a fresh mixed green salad with varied leaves in green and dark purple colors. Above the salad, three thin lemon slices are placed flat next to the salmon. A rose gold fork is inserted into the flaked part of the salmon while a matching rose gold knife rests diagonally across the salmon and salad. The plate is set on a white marbled surface, with a grey textured cloth napkin to the top left. In the background, there is a small dark grey bowl with more lemon slices and a partial view of another bowl with chopped green herbs at the bottom left. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple, fresh, and come together to build layers of flavor that highlight the rich salmon without overpowering it. Each one plays a crucial role, from the tangy mustard punch to the subtle smoky paprika that adds depth and warmth.

Salmon fillets (2, 5-8 oz. each): Choose fresh, firm fillets with skin removed for even cooking and a tender finish.
Honey (2 tablespoons): Adds natural sweetness and helps caramelize the salmon’s surface beautifully.
Whole grain Dijon mustard (2 tablespoons): Brings a tangy texture that contrasts perfectly with the honey.
Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon): Infuses a subtle savory note without overpowering the glaze.
Smoked paprika (1/4 teaspoon): Adds gentle smoky complexity that deepens the flavor profile.
Lemon juice (1 teaspoon): Brightens the dish with fresh acidity and balances the sweetness.
Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential seasonings to enhance all the natural flavors.

How to Make Air Fryer Honey Mustard Salmon Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Honey Mustard Marinade

Start by combining the honey, whole grain Dijon mustard, garlic powder, smoked paprika, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. This mixture will become your luscious glaze. It’s important to stir everything well so the flavors meld together and you get that perfect sweet and tangy balance.

Step 2: Marinate the Salmon

Place your salmon fillets in a shallow dish or zip-top bag, then add two-thirds of the marinade. Massage the glaze onto the salmon, making sure each piece is coated thoroughly. Let it rest for about 30 minutes so those flavors soak in nicely. If you’re short on time, simply toss the fillets in the sauce and proceed directly to cooking.

Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer

Set your air fryer to 400°F and let it warm up for a few minutes. This preheating is key to getting that lovely crisp exterior on your salmon while keeping the inside tender and juicy.

Step 4: Cook the Salmon

Place the salmon fillets gently into the air fryer basket with space between them. Use the reserved marinade to baste the tops for extra gooeyness and flavor. Cook for 7 to 8 minutes, adjusting slightly depending on the thickness of your fillets. The salmon should flake easily with a fork but still have a moist texture.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Once done, carefully remove the salmon from the air fryer and plate it. Drizzle any remaining honey mustard sauce over the top while it’s hot to enhance every bite with a glossy, flavorful finish.

How to Serve Air Fryer Honey Mustard Salmon Recipe

Air Fryer Honey Mustard Salmon Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or dill works wonders to add a burst of color and herbal freshness that complements the rich glaze. A few lemon wedges served alongside also invite a fresh citrus squeeze that brightens the dish just before eating.

Side Dishes

This salmon pairs beautifully with simple sides like roasted asparagus, steamed green beans, or a light quinoa salad dressed with lemon and olive oil. For a heartier meal, buttery mashed potatoes or garlic rice make lovely companions that soak up the honey mustard sauce effortlessly.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to elevate your presentation, consider placing the salmon over a bed of mixed greens or wild rice, then add a few vivid dots of the extra sauce around the plate. Adding toasted almond slivers or crunchy pepitas on top adds unexpected texture that’s truly delightful.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. The flavors actually deepen a bit after resting overnight, making it even tastier when reheated or eaten cold.

Freezing

While air-fried salmon is best fresh, you can freeze cooked fillets wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and placed inside a freezer bag for up to two months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating to maintain texture and flavor as much as possible.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers by placing the salmon in the air fryer at 350°F for 3 to 4 minutes, just long enough to warm it through without drying out. Avoid microwaving if you can, as this tends to make salmon rubbery and less appetizing.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon for the Air Fryer Honey Mustard Salmon Recipe?

Yes, you can, but it’s best to fully thaw the salmon first for even cooking and to allow the marinade to penetrate properly.

Is this recipe suitable for skin-on salmon fillets?

Absolutely! If using skin-on fillets, cook skin-side down first in the air fryer for crispiness, and adjust cooking time slightly if the fillet is thicker.

Can I substitute the whole grain Dijon mustard?

You can use regular Dijon mustard if that’s what you have on hand, but whole grain adds a lovely texture and a subtle tanginess that’s unique to this recipe.

How do I know when the salmon is done in the air fryer?

The salmon should flake easily with a fork, and the internal temperature should reach 145°F if you want to be precise about doneness.

Can I double the recipe for more servings?

Yes, doubling the recipe is easy—just make sure not to overcrowd your air fryer basket, cook in batches if necessary, and adjust cooking times slightly for thicker fillets.

Final Thoughts

The Air Fryer Honey Mustard Salmon Recipe is truly a delightful way to enjoy a quick, healthy, and flavorful dinner without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s a perfect blend of sweet, tangy, and smoky flavors that impress family and friends while staying incredibly simple to prepare. Give this recipe a try and watch how quickly it becomes one of your favorite weeknight meals, bringing that restaurant-quality taste right into your home.

Air Fryer Honey Mustard Salmon Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4 from 51 reviews

Author: Emma
Prep Time: 10 minutes (includes marinating time)
Cook Time: 8 minutes
Total Time: 18 minutes
Yield: 2 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Air Frying
Cuisine: American
Diet: Low Fat

Print Recipe

Description

This Air Fryer Honey Mustard Salmon recipe features tender, flavorful salmon fillets coated in a sweet and tangy honey mustard sauce, quickly cooked to perfection in an air fryer for a healthy, delicious meal ready in under 20 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale

Salmon

2 salmon fillets (5–8 oz. each)

Honey Mustard Sauce

2 tablespoons honey
2 tablespoons whole grain Dijon mustard
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Prepare the marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together honey, whole grain Dijon mustard, garlic powder, smoked paprika, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until well combined to create the honey mustard sauce.
Marinate the salmon: Coat the salmon fillets with two-thirds of the honey mustard sauce, ensuring each fillet is fully covered. Let them marinate for 30 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Preheat the air fryer: Set the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and let it preheat, which helps achieve a crispy exterior and moist interior for the salmon.
Cook the salmon: Place the marinated salmon fillets into the preheated air fryer basket. Brush the remaining marinade over the top of each fillet to enhance flavor and moisture.
Air fry: Cook for 7 to 8 minutes depending on thickness, until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
Serve: Remove the salmon carefully from the air fryer, drizzle with any remaining sauce if desired, and serve hot for a nutritious and flavorful meal.

Notes

Marinate for at least 30 minutes to maximize flavor absorption.
Check salmon thickness to adjust air frying time as needed.
Salmon can be served with steamed vegetables or a fresh side salad.
Use fresh salmon for best results and flavor.
Leftover salmon can be refrigerated for up to 2 days.