How long do you cook salmon in the air fryer with honey mustard?

Cook air fryer salmon honey mustard at 400°F for 7-10 minutes, depending on the thickness of your fillets. For standard 1-inch thick pieces, 8 minutes is usually perfect. The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F. No need to flip the salmon during cooking - the air fryer's circulation does all the work for you!

What ingredients do I need for air fryer honey mustard salmon?

You'll need salmon fillets, honey, Dijon mustard, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper for the basic recipe. Some variations include adding soy sauce, lemon juice, or fresh herbs like dill or parsley. The beauty of this recipe is its simplicity - most ingredients are pantry staples you probably already have. Fresh or frozen salmon works great, just make sure frozen fillets are completely thawed first.

Should I preheat my air fryer for honey mustard salmon?

Yes, preheating your air fryer to 400°F for 2-3 minutes will give you the best results with honey mustard salmon. This ensures even cooking from the moment you put the fish in. However, if you're in a rush, you can skip preheating and just add an extra minute or two to the cooking time. The honey mustard glaze will still caramelize beautifully either way!

Can I use frozen salmon for this air fryer honey mustard recipe?

You can use frozen salmon, but it must be completely thawed first for even cooking and proper glaze adhesion. Thaw frozen fillets in the refrigerator overnight or use the cold water method for quicker thawing. Pat the thawed salmon completely dry before applying the honey mustard mixture. Cooking times remain the same as fresh salmon once properly thawed and dried.

What internal temperature should air fryer honey mustard salmon reach?

Air fryer honey mustard salmon should reach an internal temperature of 145°F for food safety, as recommended by the USDA. Use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the fillet to check. At this temperature, the salmon will flake easily and have a slightly opaque center. If you prefer your salmon a bit more done, you can cook it to 150°F, but be careful not to overcook or it will become dry.

Air Fryer Salmon Honey Mustard: Easy Delicious Recipe

Name: Air Fryer Salmon Honey Mustard: Easy Delicious Recipe
Prep time: 2 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 10 min
Ingredients: 2 salmon fillets (5-8 oz. each); 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; Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

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I remember watching my mom brush a golden glaze over perfectly cooked salmon fillets while classic oldies played in the backgroundsweet, tangy, and totally irresistible. Those memories now come alive with this air fryer salmon honey mustard recipe. It delivers all that comforting flavor in a fraction of the time. No wonder it’s been trending on TikTok! This easy recipe comes together in minutes and yields that signature honey-glazed crispness on top.

Designed for busy weeknights, this dish uses simple ingredientsjust salmon, Dijon mustard, a drizzle of honey, and garlic you probably already have in your kitchen. The outer edges caramelize beautifully, while the center stays melt-in-your-mouth tender. It’s like your favorite glazed chicken, only lighter and faster. Keep scrolling for full details, tips, and pro tricks for perfect results!

We tested this recipe in the Cozy Grandma kitchen six different ways until the glaze was spot onbalanced, shiny, and flavorful. As someone raised on salmon Sundays and cast-iron everything, I love when ease meets tradition. There’s a little twist in the honey mustard mixture that takes it over the top. I’ve tested it. You’re going to love the secret ingredient!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This air fryer salmon honey mustard recipe is a total busy-weeknight hero. It feels fancy but comes together faster than you can pick out a movie. Here’s why it’s about to become a favorite:

Healthy Meets Comfort: The honey-Dijon glaze is both indulgent and light, giving you sweet, tangy goodness without weighing you down.
Quick and Easy: Just 8 minutes in the air fryer, with minimal prep. Perfect for those nights when kitchen time is limited.
Minimal Ingredients: Everything is basic pantry and fridge staples. No hunting for unusual spices or specialty items.
Beginner-Friendly: Whether you’re new to the air fryer or cooking salmon, this method is nearly foolproof.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe keeps it simple and tasty with just a few ingredients:

ingredients for air fryer salmon honey mustard including salmon fillets, mustard, honey, lemon, garlic powder, paprika and seasonings

Ingredient	Notes
2 salmon fillets (5-8 oz. each)	Fresh or pre-portioned fillets work great. Skin-on fillets help prevent sticking and retain moisture.
2 tablespoons honey	Provides natural sweetness and helps caramelize the glaze.
2 tablespoons whole grain Dijon mustard	Gives texture and tangopt for high-quality mustard for best flavor.
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder	Adds savory depth without overpowering the glaze.
1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika	Offers a hint of smokiness; substitute regular paprika if preferred.
1 teaspoon lemon juice	A touch of acid to balance the sweetness of the honey.
Salt and pepper	Season to taste; flaky sea salt adds a nice finishing touch.
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)	Use as a garnish for freshness and a pop of color.

How It Works: Step-by-Step

This recipe is as simple as mixing, marinating, and air frying. Follow these steps for success:

Make the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, smoked paprika, lemon juice, a pinch of salt, and black pepper until smooth.
Marinate: Pat salmon dry with paper towels. Brush fillets with about 2/3 of the glaze and marinate for 30 minutes in the fridge if time allowsthis enhances flavor and glaze sticking power.
Preheat Your Air Fryer: Set it to 400°F and preheat for 3 minutes. If your air fryer doesn’t auto-preheat, let it run empty.
Cook: Lightly spray the air fryer basket or use parchment paper to prevent sticking. Place salmon skin-side down and brush with the remaining glaze. Air fry for 7–8 minutes, depending on fillet thickness.
Serve: Remove salmon with a spatula, plate while hot, and top with chopped parsley or additional glaze, if desired.

Step	Timing
Prepping the Glaze	2 minutes
Marinating	30 minutes (optional, enhances flavor)
Air Frying	7–8 minutes

Troubleshooting & Tips

If this is your first time making air fryer salmon honey mustard, here’s how to keep things smooth:

Sticking Issues: Line the basket with parchment paper or lightly grease it with nonstick spray to prevent the salmon from tearing.
Avoid Overcooking: Check the salmon around the 7-minute mark. It should flake easily and have an internal temp of 145°F.
Marination Shortcut: Short on time? Skip the marinating and brush the glaze on just before cooking. You’ll still get flavorful results.

Common Issue	Solution
Glaze Too Runny	Let it rest for a few minutes before using or refrigerate briefly to thicken.
Edges of Salmon Overcooked	Trim thinner edges or reduce cook time slightly to prevent overcooking.
Salmon Sticking	Apply a light coat of oil or use parchment paper for easy release.

Serving & Storage

This salmon is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers still shine. Here’s how to make the most of it:

Serving Ideas: Serve with garlic rice, roasted Brussels sprouts, quinoa, or a crisp cucumber salad. It’s also delicious flaked into wraps or grain bowls.
Storing Leftovers: Let salmon cool completely and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Storage Method	Duration
Refrigerator	Up to 3 days
Freezer	Not recommended (texture changes)

Reheat Tip: Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3–4 minutes. Brush with a little extra glaze or lemon juice to refresh the flavor and prevent dryness.

Expert Insight: Mastering Air Fryer Salmon Honey Mustard

Using an air fryer to prepare salmon with honey mustard creates a perfectly crisp exterior while maintaining a tender, juicy interior. This high-heat method enhances the glaze’s caramelization without added fat, making it an efficient technique for flavorful, healthy meals with minimal cleanup. A digital meat thermometer is your best friend here145°F in the thickest part means perfection every time!

For more delicious recipes and cooking inspiration, follow me on Facebook, Pinterest and Reddit!

Mastering Air Fryer Salmon Honey Mustard

After plenty of rounds in the kitchen adjusting timing and balancing the glazesometimes too sweet, other times not crisp enoughI’ve finally landed on the ultimate air fryer salmon honey mustard. Crisp skin, tangy-sweet glaze, and that golden caramelization make this recipe a true keeper. It’s become a regular in our home, and I’m thrilled to share it with you.

FAQs ( air fryer salmon honey mustard )

finished air fryer salmon honey mustard served with herbs and lemon slice on white linen in bright kitchen

Wrapping Up Your Air Fryer Salmon Honey Mustard

This air fryer salmon honey mustard recipe is a true weeknight essentialcrisp at the edges, tender in the center, and glowing with that perfect golden honey glaze in under ten minutes. It’s quick, flavorful, and just the right touch of nostalgic comfort-meets-modern magic.

Make it your own by swapping paprika for cayenne for a spicier edge, or adding fresh dill right before serving. Leftovers? They reheat beautifully! Just a quick go in the air fryer, and dinner’s revived. I also love brushing on a final bit of glaze after reheatinga tip I picked up from a fellow kitchen enthusiast that adds fresh flavor and shine.

Did this dish remind you of a cozy meal from childhood or inspire a new dinner favorite? I’d love to see what you create. Tag me and share your storybecause great food connects us, and this recipe is meant to be made, shared, and loved.

air fryer salmon honey mustard plated with lemon wedge and fresh herbs on white napkin

Thomas Baker

Air Fryer Salmon Honey Mustard: Easy Delicious Recipe

Enjoy a quick and flavorful healthy seafood dinner with this 8-minute air fryer honey mustard salmon, featuring a sweet and tangy glaze that makes salmon irresistibly delicious.

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Prep Time 2

Cook Time 8

Total Time 10

Servings: 2 servings

Calories: 268

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

2 salmon fillets (5-8 oz. each)
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
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Method

Combine honey, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, smoked paprika, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to make the sauce.
Marinate the salmon fillets in two-thirds of the sauce for 30 minutes or toss until fully coated.
Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (if no preheat option, run for 5 minutes at 400°F).
Place the salmon fillets in the air fryer basket and baste with the remaining marinade.
Air fry for 7-8 minutes depending on thickness until salmon is cooked through.
Serve hot, drizzled with the remaining sauce and topped with fresh chopped parsley if desired.

Notes

If your air fryer lacks a preheat function, preheat for 5 minutes at 400°F before cooking. For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes to the marinade. Refer to recipe tips for substitutions and extra ideas.