Name: Air Fryer Teriyaki Salmon Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 32 min
Cuisine: Japanese
Ingredients: 1 lb (4 pieces) salmon fillets; 1/2 cup soy sauce; 1/2 cup water, divided; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 inch piece of ginger, grated; 2 tbsp honey; 2 tbsp brown sugar; 1 tbsp cornstarch; 1 tsp sesame seeds; 1 scallion, thinly sliced

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Introduction

This Air Fryer Teriyaki Salmon recipe offers a quick and flavorful way to enjoy tender, glazed salmon with a perfectly balanced teriyaki sauce. Using the air fryer ensures a slightly crispy exterior while keeping the fish moist and flaky inside.

A white bowl contains three layers: the bottom layer is white steamed rice with scattered green onion pieces, the middle layer is dark green grilled asparagus arranged side by side on one half of the bowl, and the top layer has two glazed salmon fillets with a shiny, golden brown surface sprinkled evenly with white sesame seeds and garnished with fresh green onion slices. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface with a blurred white cloth in the background, and a silver fork can be seen to the right. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 lb (4 pieces) salmon fillets
1/2 cup soy sauce
1/2 cup water
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 inch piece of ginger, grated
2 tbsp honey
2 tbsp brown sugar
1 tbsp cornstarch
1 tsp sesame seeds (for garnish)
1 scallion, thinly sliced (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
Step 2: In a small saucepan, combine the soy sauce, three-quarters of the water, minced garlic, grated ginger, honey, and brown sugar.
Step 3: Place the saucepan over medium heat and whisk the mixture until the sugar dissolves and the sauce starts to thicken.
Step 4: In a separate bowl, mix the cornstarch with the remaining cold water to create a slurry.
Step 5: Add the cornstarch slurry to the saucepan and continue whisking until the sauce reaches a glossy, thick consistency, about 2-3 minutes.
Step 6: Remove the teriyaki sauce from heat and let it cool.
Step 7: Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish or resealable plastic bag, then pour the teriyaki sauce over them, ensuring they are well coated.
Step 8: Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes, up to 1 hour, to marinate.
Step 9: Remove the salmon from the refrigerator and transfer to an air fryer safe dish or basket.
Step 10: Air fry the salmon for about 12 minutes, until cooked through and flaky.
Step 11: If you want a caramelized glaze, brush some reserved teriyaki sauce on the salmon during the last 2-3 minutes of cooking.
Step 12: Carefully remove the salmon from the air fryer and garnish with sesame seeds and thinly sliced scallions.
Step 13: Serve hot over steamed rice or with your favorite side dishes.

Tips & Variations

For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the teriyaki sauce while it simmers.
Use skin-on salmon fillets for easier handling and extra crispiness if desired.
Replace brown sugar with maple syrup for a different, natural sweetness.
Marinate the salmon longer (up to 1 hour) for deeper flavor absorption.

Storage

Store leftover teriyaki salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the air fryer or microwave to avoid drying out the fish. It’s best enjoyed fresh but can be repurposed cold in salads or sandwiches.

How to Serve

The image shows four fresh salmon fillets with a bright orange color and visible white marbling, laid side by side on a piece of brown newspaper on a white marbled surface. Surrounding the salmon are small white bowls containing dark soy sauce, light brown sesame seeds, white powder (likely cornstarch), amber-colored honey, and light brown sugar with a crumbly texture. There is also a small white bowl with clear liquid, a slice of fresh ginger with yellow flesh and brown skin, four peeled garlic cloves, and a whole green onion with a white bulb and long green stalks placed horizontally at the bottom. All items are neatly arranged for a clean, organized look. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, but make sure to fully thaw the salmon before marinating and cooking to ensure even cooking and proper flavor absorption.

Do I need to flip the salmon while air frying?

Flipping is not necessary if your air fryer cooks evenly, but you can turn the salmon halfway through cooking for a more uniform glaze and texture.