Air Fryer Salmon with Maple Bourbon Glaze: A Deliciously Quick & Easy Recipe

Are you looking for a healthy and flavorful weeknight dinner that’s ready in under 20 minutes? Look no further than this Air Fryer Salmon with Maple Bourbon Glaze! This recipe combines the convenience of air frying with the rich, smoky-sweet flavor of a homemade maple bourbon glaze. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for busy weeknights or a special occasion.

## Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Salmon Recipe

* **Quick and Easy:** Air frying cooks the salmon to perfection in a fraction of the time compared to oven baking. This recipe is truly ready in minutes, from prep to plate.
* **Healthy and Delicious:** Salmon is packed with omega-3 fatty acids and protein, making it a nutritious and satisfying meal. The maple bourbon glaze adds a touch of sweetness and complexity without being overly indulgent.
* **Perfectly Cooked Salmon:** The air fryer ensures the salmon is cooked evenly, with a crispy exterior and a moist, flaky interior. No more dry or rubbery salmon!
* **Easy Cleanup:** The air fryer basket makes cleanup a breeze. Simply wipe it down or toss it in the dishwasher.
* **Customizable:** The glaze can be easily adjusted to your liking. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat, or a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.

## Ingredients You’ll Need

**For the Salmon:**

* 4 (6-ounce) salmon fillets, skin on or off (see notes below)
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
* 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

**For the Maple Bourbon Glaze:**

* 1/4 cup maple syrup (use real maple syrup for the best flavor!)
* 2 tablespoons bourbon (or whiskey)
* 1 tablespoon soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
* 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
* 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
* 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
* 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
* Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

## Equipment You’ll Need

* Air Fryer
* Small Mixing Bowl
* Whisk
* Measuring Cups and Spoons
* Basting Brush (optional)

## Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s get started! Here’s how to make this delicious air fryer salmon with maple bourbon glaze:

**Step 1: Prepare the Maple Bourbon Glaze**

In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, bourbon, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes (if using). Whisk until all ingredients are well combined and the glaze is smooth. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. If you prefer a sweeter glaze, add a touch more maple syrup. If you prefer a tangier glaze, add a squeeze of lemon juice.

**Step 2: Prepare the Salmon**

Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. This will help them crisp up nicely in the air fryer.

In a small bowl, combine olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Brush the mixture evenly over both sides of the salmon fillets.

**Step 3: Air Fry the Salmon**

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3-5 minutes. This ensures the air fryer is hot and ready to cook the salmon evenly.

Place the salmon fillets in the air fryer basket in a single layer, skin side down (if using skin-on salmon). Make sure the fillets are not overlapping. If they are, you may need to cook them in batches.

Air fry for 6-8 minutes, depending on the thickness of the salmon fillets. The internal temperature of the salmon should reach 145°F (63°C). Check for doneness by inserting a fork into the thickest part of the fillet. The salmon should flake easily.

**Step 4: Glaze the Salmon**

During the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, brush the salmon fillets generously with the maple bourbon glaze. You can do this in the air fryer basket or remove the salmon and glaze it on a plate. If glazing in the air fryer, be sure to keep a close eye on the salmon to prevent the glaze from burning. Repeat glazing one or two times for a richer flavor.

**Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!**

Carefully remove the salmon from the air fryer and place it on a serving plate. Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions, if desired. Serve immediately. This salmon is delicious with rice, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad.

## Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Salmon

* **Don’t Overcrowd the Air Fryer:** Cook the salmon in a single layer to ensure even cooking. If necessary, cook in batches.
* **Preheat Your Air Fryer:** Preheating ensures the salmon cooks quickly and evenly.
* **Pat the Salmon Dry:** This helps the salmon crisp up nicely in the air fryer.
* **Use a Meat Thermometer:** For perfectly cooked salmon, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should reach 145°F (63°C).
* **Don’t Overcook the Salmon:** Overcooked salmon will be dry and rubbery. Start checking for doneness a few minutes before the recommended cooking time.
* **Adjust Cooking Time:** Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the salmon fillets and your air fryer.
* **Use Real Maple Syrup:** Real maple syrup provides the best flavor for the glaze.
* **Be Careful with the Glaze:** The glaze can burn easily, so keep a close eye on the salmon while glazing.

## Variations and Substitutions

* **Glaze Variations:**
* **Honey Garlic Glaze:** Substitute honey for maple syrup and add minced garlic to the glaze.
* **Teriyaki Glaze:** Use teriyaki sauce instead of soy sauce and add a pinch of ginger to the glaze.
* **Lemon Herb Glaze:** Substitute lemon juice for apple cider vinegar and add chopped herbs like dill, parsley, or thyme to the glaze.
* **Bourbon Substitutions:**
* **Whiskey:** Any type of whiskey can be used in place of bourbon.
* **Apple Juice or Chicken Broth:** If you prefer an alcohol-free version, substitute apple juice or chicken broth for the bourbon.
* **Spice it Up:** Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or sriracha to the glaze for extra heat.
* **Add Herbs:** Sprinkle fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or thyme over the salmon before serving.
* **Vegetable Pairings:** Serve with roasted asparagus, broccoli, green beans, or Brussels sprouts.
* **Grain Pairings:** Serve with quinoa, rice, or couscous.

## Serving Suggestions

This Air Fryer Salmon with Maple Bourbon Glaze is a versatile dish that can be served in many ways. Here are a few ideas:

* **With Roasted Vegetables:** Serve the salmon with a side of roasted asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts for a healthy and complete meal.
* **Over Rice or Quinoa:** Flake the salmon and serve it over rice or quinoa for a hearty and satisfying bowl.
* **In a Salad:** Add the salmon to a salad with mixed greens, avocado, and a light vinaigrette.
* **As Tacos or Wraps:** Flake the salmon and use it as a filling for tacos or wraps with your favorite toppings.
* **On Toast or Bagel:** Top toast or a bagel with cream cheese, smoked salmon, and dill for a delicious breakfast or brunch.

## Make Ahead and Storage

**Make Ahead:** The maple bourbon glaze can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salmon can be prepped (patted dry and seasoned) up to 2 hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to cook.

**Storage:** Cooked salmon can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the air fryer or microwave.

## Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

* **Can I use frozen salmon?**

Yes, you can use frozen salmon. Thaw the salmon completely before cooking. Pat it dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture.
* **Do I need to remove the skin from the salmon?**

Whether or not to remove the skin is a matter of personal preference. Skin-on salmon will have a crispier skin when air fried, but it can also be more prone to sticking to the air fryer basket. Skinless salmon is easier to cook and eat, but it may not be as crispy.
* **What temperature should I cook salmon to?**

The internal temperature of salmon should reach 145°F (63°C).
* **Can I use a different type of fish?**

Yes, you can use other types of fish, such as cod, halibut, or tilapia. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
* **My air fryer is different, will the cooking time be the same?**
Air fryers can vary greatly, even of the same wattage. Always start with the lower end of the cooking time range provided, and check the internal temperature of the salmon frequently to avoid overcooking.

## Air Fryer Salmon with Maple Bourbon Glaze Recipe

This recipe is so simple to make, yet delivers an incredible explosion of flavor with every bite. The air fryer cooks the salmon to flaky perfection, while the homemade glaze adds a touch of sweetness and smokiness that is simply irresistible. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite!

**Prep time:** 5 minutes
**Cook time:** 8-10 minutes
**Serves:** 4

**Ingredients:**

* 4 (6-ounce) salmon fillets, skin on or off
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
* 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1/4 cup maple syrup
* 2 tablespoons bourbon
* 1 tablespoon soy sauce
* 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
* 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
* 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
* 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
* Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

**Instructions:**

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, bourbon, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes (if using).
2. Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels.
3. In a separate bowl, combine olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Brush the mixture evenly over both sides of the salmon fillets.
4. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
5. Place the salmon fillets in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
6. Air fry for 6-8 minutes, depending on the thickness of the salmon. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
7. During the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, brush the salmon fillets generously with the maple bourbon glaze.
8. Remove the salmon from the air fryer and serve immediately.

Enjoy your delicious and easy Air Fryer Salmon with Maple Bourbon Glaze!

## Nutritional Information (Approximate)

* Calories: 350-450 per serving (depending on ingredients and portion size)
* Protein: 30-40g
* Fat: 20-30g
* Carbohydrates: 15-25g

**Disclaimer:** Nutritional information is approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods. It’s always best to calculate nutritional information based on the exact ingredients you use.