Air Fryer Salmon Tacos: Easy Recipe in 20 Minutes!

January 1, 2026

By:

air fryer salmon tacos are a revelation. Honestly, I never thought I could get such perfectly flaky salmon in the air fryer, ready to be piled high on warm tortillas with all my favorite toppings. But here we are with a recipe that’s quick, healthy, and bursting with flavor – perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual weekend gathering. Forget complicated recipes; these air fryer salmon tacos are about to become your new go to.

These air fryer salmon tacos came about on a night when I really didn't want to cook. I had some salmon thawing, tortillas in the pantry, and a craving for something fresh and flavorful. Enter the air fryer! It’s truly a game changer.

Why You Will Love This air fryer salmon tacos Recipe

These air fryer salmon tacos are a weeknight winner for so many reasons! First, the air fryer cooks the salmon to perfection in a fraction of the time it would take in the oven. This means dinner is on the table in under 30 minutes. Second, it's incredibly easy to customize. Add your favorite toppings like slaw, pico de gallo, avocado crema, or a spicy sriracha mayo.

This recipe is also healthy without sacrificing flavor. Salmon is packed with omega 3s, and the air fryer means you use less oil. Plus, loading it up with fresh veggies makes it a well balanced meal you’ll want to make again and again. I think these are even better than my Air Fryer Chicken Pasta sometimes!

Ingredients Needed for This air fryer salmon tacos Recipe

For the Salmon:
- 1 pound skinless salmon fillet, cut into 4 equal portions
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Tacos:
- 8 small corn or flour tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cabbage or slaw mix
- 1/2 cup pico de gallo
- 1 avocado, sliced or mashed
- Lime wedges for serving
- Optional: sriracha mayo, cilantro, crumbled cotija cheese

How to Make This air fryer salmon tacos Recipe

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Place the salmon fillets in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Brush the spice mixture evenly over the salmon.
Air fry for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of the salmon. For best results check the salmon periodically.
While the salmon is cooking, warm the tortillas. You can warm them in a dry skillet, microwave, or directly in the air fryer for a few seconds (watch them closely!).
Once the salmon is cooked, gently flake it with a fork.
Assemble the tacos: Place flaked salmon on each tortilla. Top with shredded cabbage or slaw mix, pico de gallo, and avocado.
Serve immediately with lime wedges and any desired toppings.

This is a flavorful recipe similar to Air Fryer Chicken Tacos. Serve and enjoy at your next get together!

How to Serve This air fryer salmon tacos Recipe

These air fryer salmon tacos are incredibly versatile. Serve them with a side of black beans and rice for a complete meal. For a lighter option, pair them with a fresh salad.

Consider offering a variety of toppings so everyone can customize their tacos to their liking. Sriracha mayo adds a spicy kick, while crumbled cotija cheese provides a salty finish. A squeeze of fresh lime juice brightens all the flavors.

How to Store This air fryer salmon tacos Recipe

Cooked salmon can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Allow the salmon to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.

Store the toppings separately to prevent the tortillas from becoming soggy. Reheat the salmon in the air fryer or microwave before assembling the tacos.

Freezing cooked salmon is not recommended as it can change the texture and make it dry.

Tips to Make This air fryer salmon tacos Recipe

Don't overcrowd the air fryer basket: Cook the salmon in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking.
Use high quality salmon: The better the salmon, the tastier the tacos will be.
Adjust the seasoning to your taste: Feel free to add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
Warm the tortillas properly: Warm tortillas are more pliable and less likely to tear.

If you like these tacos, make sure and give Air Fryer Shrimp Salad a try!

Helpful Notes for This air fryer salmon tacos Recipe

For best results, use skinless salmon fillets. If you only have salmon with skin, you can remove it after cooking.
Smoked paprika adds a wonderful smoky flavor to the salmon, but you can substitute regular paprika if needed.
If you don't have pico de gallo, use diced tomatoes, onions, and cilantro.
Feel free to use your favorite brand of tortillas. I prefer corn tortillas for a gluten free option.

Variation of This air fryer salmon tacos Recipe

Spicy Air Fryer Salmon Tacos: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the spice mixture for extra heat. Top the tacos with sriracha mayo.
Tropical Air Fryer Salmon Tacos: Top the tacos with mango salsa and a drizzle of coconut cream.
Air Fryer Salmon Taco Bowls: Serve the salmon and toppings over rice or quinoa instead of tortillas.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to cook salmon in an air fryer for tacos?

Air fryer salmon cooks very quickly! Typically, it takes around 8-12 minutes at 400°F (200°C), depending on the thickness of the salmon fillet. Check for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for doneness.

What kind of toppings go well with air fryer salmon tacos?

The options are endless! Consider fresh cilantro, red onion, shredded cabbage, avocado slices, a squeeze of lime, and your favorite salsa or creamy sauce. A spicy mayo or a vibrant mango salsa can add a burst of flavor.

Can I use frozen salmon for air fryer tacos?

Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw the salmon completely before air frying. Pat it dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture for optimal crispness. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

What is the best way to season salmon before air frying for tacos?

A simple mix of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika works great! You could also add chili powder for a little heat or Italian seasoning for a Mediterranean flavor. A squeeze of lemon or lime juice before and after cooking can also enhance the taste.

Conclusion

These air fryer salmon tacos are a delicious and easy way to enjoy a healthy meal. The flaky salmon, the warm tortillas, and the fresh toppings create a flavor combination that is simply irresistible. I hope you'll give these air fryer salmon tacos a try and let me know what you think in the comments below!