Should I cook salmon with the skin on or off?

Salmon skin is safe to eat but it is fine to cook it with the skin on or off. For this recipe, I chose to use skinless salmon filets since we coated it in a dry rub and the bang bang sauce but it is really up to personal preference.

Do I need to flip the salmon in the air fryer?

I prefer not to flip the salmon since it tends to get crispy on other sides. It also can break easily so I choose not to flip it when cooking it in the air fryer. With that being said, flip it if you wish.

How can I tell when the salmon is done cooking?

To start, always choose the freshest, highest-quality salmon. Look for fillets that are plump, vibrant pink, and free from any strong, overly fishy odors. To check for doneness , the salmon should feel firm to the touch and reach an internal temperature of about 145°F in its thickest part when measured with a meat thermometer. If you prefer it slightly less well-done, 135-140°F is acceptable, as long as you're using high-quality salmon from a trusted source. You can also check by cutting into the fillet—if it's firm, slightly flaky, and no longer raw in the center, it's ready to enjoy.

Easy Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon - 6 Ingredients

Description

This bang bang salmon is crazy crispy, creamy and flavorful. You can make it in the air fryer or the oven and it comes out perfectly succulent and delicious every time! Drizzle it with more bang bang sauce and serve it over rice for a quick, healthy dinner everyone will love!

Ingredients

Scale

3-4 salmon filets – about 4 ounces each
1 Tablespoon Trader Joe’s salmon rub – or any salmon rub
1/4 cup mayo
2.5 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
1 teaspoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon honey

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Instructions

Preheat the air fryer to 400°F if your air fryer has a preheat option. If not then just set the air fryer to 400°F.
Pat the salmon dry using a clean paper towel.
Rub the salmon rub all over each salmon filet.
Mix up the mayo, chili sauce, soy sauce and honey in a small bowl.
Brush some of the bang bang sauce onto each piece of salmon. I just brushed it on the top and sides of each filet.
Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Place the coated salmon filets into the air fryer in an even layer (cook in batches if you are using a smaller air fryer). Cook the salmon for 10-12 minutes until golden and cooked through. You want the internal temperature to be 130-135°F for medium-done salmon and about 145°F for well-done salmon. Note: use a meat thermometer inserted in the thickest part of the salmon to check for doneness).
Once the salmon is done, brush it with more bang bang sauce, serve and enjoy!

Notes

Use 4-5-ounce even-size salmon filets so they all cook at the same time.
You can leave the skin on or off the salmon, it’s up to you.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat portions in the air fryer or oven until heated through. Save leftover bang bang sauce to drizzle on the salmon before serving.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Healthy Main Dishes
Method: Air Fryer
Cuisine: Asian