Air Fry Salmon and Broccoli: Quick and Healthy One-Pan Dinner

When you need a complete, nutritious meal on the table fast, air fry salmon and broccoli is the answer. This simple one-pan dinner combines protein-rich salmon with nutrient-dense broccoli, cooking both to perfection in your air fryer in just 12-15 minutes.

Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or scrambling to make a healthy weeknight dinner, this foolproof recipe delivers restaurant-quality results with minimal effort and cleanup.

Table of Contents

Why Air Fry Salmon and Broccoli Together

Cooking salmon and broccoli together in the air fryer isn’t just convenient—it’s a game-changer for busy families and health-conscious eaters. Here’s why this combination has become a viral favorite:

Complete Meal in One Basket: Get your protein and vegetables all from one cooking vessel. No juggling multiple pans or coordinating different cooking times.

Perfect Timing: Salmon and broccoli have nearly identical cooking times in the air fryer, making them ideal companions for this one-pan meal approach.

Incredible Texture: The air fryer creates crispy, slightly charred broccoli florets while giving salmon a beautifully seared exterior and tender, flaky interior.

Minimal Cleanup: One basket to wash instead of multiple pots and pans. That means more time enjoying your meal and less time scrubbing dishes.

Nutritional Powerhouse: Combine omega-3 rich salmon with vitamin C-packed broccoli for a meal that checks all your nutritional boxes in one shot.

Budget-Friendly: This simple recipe uses everyday ingredients without requiring expensive specialty items or complicated sauces.

Endlessly Customizable: Season your salmon and broccoli however you like, from simple salt and pepper to elaborate Asian-inspired marinades or Mediterranean herb blends.

Meal Prep Friendly: Cook multiple servings at once and portion them into containers for grab-and-go lunches throughout the week.

Ingredients for Air Fryer Salmon and Broccoli

For the Salmon:

2 salmon fillets (6 ounces each, skin-on or skinless)
1 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Optional: 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari
Lemon wedges for serving

For the Broccoli:

2 cups broccoli florets (about 1 medium head)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Optional: squeeze of lemon juice

Optional Marinade (Asian-Inspired):

2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1 teaspoon fresh grated ginger
1 clove garlic, minced
Sesame seeds for garnish

How to Air Fry Salmon and Broccoli Together

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by patting the salmon fillets completely dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture is crucial for achieving that crispy, golden exterior. If using skin-on salmon, leave the skin on—it will crisp up beautifully and protect the delicate flesh from overcooking.

Cut the broccoli into uniform 1-2 inch florets. Consistent sizing ensures even cooking. If your broccoli stems are thick, peel the tough outer layer and slice them into bite-sized pieces—they’re delicious and shouldn’t go to waste!

Step 2: Season the Salmon and Broccoli

For Simple Seasoning: Drizzle the salmon fillets with olive oil and rub to coat evenly. Season generously with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Don’t be shy with the seasoning—salmon can handle bold flavors.

Place the broccoli florets in a medium bowl and toss with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until evenly coated. The oil helps the broccoli crisp up and prevents it from drying out.

For Marinated Version: If using the Asian-inspired marinade, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, ginger, and garlic in a bowl. Pour half over the salmon and reserve the other half for serving. Let the salmon marinate for 10-30 minutes if time allows, or proceed immediately if you’re in a hurry.

Step 3: Preheat Your Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3-5 minutes. Preheating ensures even cooking from the moment your food enters the basket and helps achieve that desirable golden-brown color on both the salmon and broccoli.

Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or brush with oil to prevent sticking. This simple step makes a huge difference in cleanup later.

Step 4: Arrange Salmon and Broccoli in the Basket

Place the seasoned salmon fillets in the center of the air fryer basket, skin-side down if using skin-on salmon. Leave space around each fillet so hot air can circulate properly.

Arrange the broccoli florets around the salmon in a single layer, making sure they don’t overlap too much. While a little touching is fine, overcrowding will result in steaming rather than crisping.

If your air fryer basket isn’t large enough to accommodate everything in one layer, work in batches or reduce the recipe. Proper air circulation is key to achieving that perfect texture.

Step 5: Air Fry to Perfection

Method 1 – Cook Together (Recommended for Most Air Fryers):

Set the air fryer to 400°F and cook for 10-12 minutes total. At the 5-6 minute mark, open the basket and give the broccoli a quick toss with tongs while leaving the salmon undisturbed. This ensures even crisping on the broccoli.

The salmon is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F and easily flakes with a fork. The broccoli should be tender with slightly charred, crispy edges.

Method 2 – Staggered Cooking (For Thicker Fillets):

If your salmon fillets are particularly thick (1.5 inches or more), you may want to start them first. Cook the salmon alone for 3 minutes at 400°F, then add the broccoli and continue cooking for 7-9 more minutes, tossing the broccoli halfway through.

Method 3 – Sequential Cooking (For Extra Crispy Broccoli):

Some people prefer their broccoli extra crispy with more char. In this case, cook the salmon for the first 3 minutes, add the broccoli, continue for 6-8 minutes, then remove the salmon and let the broccoli cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.

Step 6: Check for Doneness

Use an instant-read meat thermometer to check that the thickest part of the salmon has reached 145°F. This is the USDA-recommended safe temperature for cooked fish. If you prefer your salmon slightly less done (medium-rare), aim for 125-130°F—the fish will continue cooking as it rests.

The broccoli is perfectly done when the florets are tender, easily pierced with a fork, and have those beautiful crispy, slightly charred edges that make air fryer vegetables so irresistible.

Step 7: Rest and Serve

Let the salmon rest for 2-3 minutes before serving. This brief resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the fish, ensuring every bite is moist and flavorful.

Transfer the salmon and broccoli to serving plates. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over both, garnish with fresh herbs if desired, and serve immediately while hot.

If you made the Asian-inspired version, drizzle the reserved marinade over the salmon and broccoli, and sprinkle with sesame seeds and sliced green onions.

Pro Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Salmon and Broccoli

Choose Quality Salmon: Fresh, wild-caught salmon delivers the best flavor and texture. Look for bright, firm fillets with no fishy smell. Sockeye, coho, and king salmon are all excellent choices.

Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: This is the most common mistake. Proper spacing allows hot air to circulate around each piece of food, creating that crispy texture. Cook in batches if necessary.

Dry Your Salmon Thoroughly: Excess moisture prevents proper browning. Pat the salmon completely dry with paper towels before seasoning.

Cut Broccoli Uniformly: Similar-sized florets ensure even cooking. If some pieces are significantly larger than others, they’ll cook at different rates.

Use a Meat Thermometer: This inexpensive tool guarantees perfectly cooked salmon every time. Guessing can lead to dry, overcooked fish.

Toss Broccoli Midway: Give the broccoli a shake or toss halfway through cooking to ensure all sides get crispy. Leave the salmon undisturbed to maintain its beautiful sear.

Don’t Skip the Oil: While the air fryer uses less oil than traditional frying, a light coating on both the salmon and broccoli is essential for flavor and texture.

Experiment with Temperature: If you have a smaller air fryer or find your food cooking too quickly, reduce the temperature to 380°F and add 2-3 minutes to the cooking time.

Preheat for Best Results: Those few minutes of preheating make a noticeable difference in achieving even cooking and proper browning.

Season Generously: Both salmon and broccoli can handle bold seasonings. Don’t be timid with your spices and herbs.

Delicious Seasoning and Flavor Variations

One of the best things about air fry salmon and broccoli is how easily you can customize the flavors to suit your mood or dietary preferences.

Classic Lemon Herb

Mix melted butter with lemon juice, fresh dill, parsley, and garlic. Brush on salmon and toss with broccoli before air frying. Finish with extra lemon wedges and fresh herbs.

Asian Teriyaki

Marinate salmon in teriyaki sauce (store-bought or homemade) and toss broccoli in sesame oil and garlic. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions after cooking.

Mediterranean Style

Season salmon with oregano, basil, and lemon zest. Add sliced cherry tomatoes and olives to the air fryer with the broccoli. Finish with crumbled feta cheese.

Cajun Spiced

Use Cajun seasoning on both salmon and broccoli for a bold, spicy kick. Serve with a cooling yogurt sauce or ranch dressing.

Honey Mustard Glazed

Brush salmon with a mixture of Dijon mustard, honey, and garlic. Season broccoli simply with salt and pepper. The sweet and tangy glaze is irresistible.

Italian Herb Blend

Season with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and a squeeze of lemon. Add halved cherry tomatoes and finish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.

Sweet Chili

Brush salmon with sweet chili sauce and toss broccoli in a bit of the same sauce. Garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges.

Everything Bagel

Sprinkle both salmon and broccoli with everything bagel seasoning for an easy, flavorful twist that requires zero effort.

Serving Ideas for Your Air Fryer Salmon and Broccoli

While this combination is a complete meal on its own, here are some delicious ways to round it out or repurpose leftovers:

Over Rice or Grains

Serve your air fried salmon and broccoli over a base of jasmine rice, brown rice, quinoa, or farro. Add a drizzle of soy sauce, teriyaki, or your favorite sauce.

As a Salad Topper

Break the salmon into chunks and serve both the fish and broccoli over mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and avocado with a light vinaigrette.

In a Bowl

Create a salmon bowl with rice, edamame, cucumber, shredded carrots, avocado, and pickled ginger. Top with the air fried salmon and broccoli, then drizzle with spicy mayo or ponzu sauce.

With Roasted Potatoes

Add baby potatoes or sweet potato wedges to your air fryer alongside the salmon and broccoli for an even heartier complete meal.

In Meal Prep Containers

Portion the cooked salmon and broccoli into meal prep containers with your choice of grain and additional vegetables for easy grab-and-go lunches.

On a Platter for Entertaining

Arrange the salmon and broccoli on a serving platter with lemon wedges, fresh herbs, and your favorite sauce for a beautiful presentation.

In Tacos

Flake the salmon and serve with the broccoli in warm tortillas with cabbage slaw, avocado, and cilantro lime crema.

Best Side Dishes to Complete Your Meal

If you want to add more substance to your air fryer salmon and broccoli, consider these complementary sides:

Rice and Grains: Coconut rice, cilantro lime rice, garlic butter rice, quinoa, or rice pilaf provide a neutral base that soaks up flavorful juices.

Roasted Potatoes: Baby potatoes, sweet potato fries, or garlic roasted potato wedges add heartiness and comfort.

Additional Vegetables: Asparagus, green beans, Brussels sprouts, or cauliflower can be air fried alongside or separately to increase your veggie intake.

Fresh Salads: A simple green salad, cucumber tomato salad, or Asian slaw provides freshness and crunch.

Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb option, serve your salmon and broccoli over cauliflower rice seasoned with garlic and herbs.

Pasta: Toss the flaked salmon and broccoli with pasta, garlic, olive oil, and Parmesan for a quick Italian-inspired dish.

Nutritional Benefits of Salmon and Broccoli

This simple meal is a nutritional powerhouse that supports your overall health and wellness goals:

Salmon Benefits:

Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Rich in EPA and DHA, which support heart health, brain function, and reduce inflammation
High-Quality Protein: About 22 grams per 3-ounce serving for muscle maintenance and satiety
Vitamin D: One of the few natural food sources, essential for bone health and immune function
B Vitamins: Especially B12 and B6, supporting energy metabolism and nervous system health
Selenium: A powerful antioxidant that supports thyroid function
Astaxanthin: The antioxidant that gives salmon its pink color and provides anti-inflammatory benefits

Broccoli Benefits:

Vitamin C: One cup provides over 100% of your daily needs, supporting immune health
Vitamin K: Essential for bone health and blood clotting
Folate: Important for cell growth and DNA synthesis
Fiber: Supports digestive health and helps you feel full longer
Sulforaphane: A compound that may have cancer-fighting properties
Antioxidants: Helps protect cells from damage and supports overall health

Combined Nutritional Profile (per serving with 6 oz salmon and 1 cup broccoli):

Calories: Approximately 350-400
Protein: 40-45 grams
Carbohydrates: 8-10 grams
Fiber: 3-4 grams
Healthy Fats: 18-22 grams

This balanced macro profile makes air fry salmon and broccoli perfect for various dietary approaches including keto, paleo, Mediterranean, and balanced macros.

Meal Prep Guide for Air Fryer Salmon and Broccoli

This recipe is ideal for weekly meal prep, helping you stay on track with healthy eating even during your busiest weeks.

How to Meal Prep:

Day 1 – Prep Day (Sunday):

Cook 4-6 salmon fillets and corresponding broccoli in batches
Let everything cool completely before portioning
Divide into airtight meal prep containers
Store in refrigerator for up to 4 days

What to Include:

Air fried salmon fillet
Portion of broccoli
Cooked grain (rice, quinoa, farro)
Additional vegetables if desired
Small container of sauce on the side

Storage Tips:

Keep salmon and broccoli separate from wet ingredients like sauces to maintain texture
Store rice or grains in a separate compartment if your containers have dividers
Include lemon wedges for freshness when reheating

Reheating Instructions:

Air fryer: 350°F for 3-5 minutes (best method for maintaining crispy texture)
Microwave: 60-90 seconds (quickest but won’t be crispy)
Oven: 325°F for 8-10 minutes
Enjoy cold over salads (no reheating needed!)

Batch Cooking Strategies:

Season different batches with different flavors for variety throughout the week
Cook extra broccoli to use in other meals like omelets, salads, or stir-fries
Freeze cooked salmon (without broccoli) for up to 2 months for future quick meals

Storage and Reheating Guidelines

Refrigerator Storage: Store cooked salmon and broccoli in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Keeping them separate helps maintain better texture, especially for the broccoli.

Freezer Storage: Cooked salmon freezes well for up to 2-3 months. I don’t recommend freezing cooked broccoli as it becomes mushy upon thawing. Freeze the salmon on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to freezer bags.

Reheating in Air Fryer: This is the best method for maintaining texture. Preheat to 350°F and reheat for 3-5 minutes until warmed through. The salmon will retain moisture and the broccoli will crisp up again.

Reheating in Oven: Preheat to 325°F and reheat on a baking sheet for 8-10 minutes. Cover the salmon loosely with foil if it seems to be drying out.

Microwave Reheating: Place in a microwave-safe dish and heat for 60-90 seconds. While this is the fastest method, the broccoli won’t be as crispy.

Serving Cold: Both salmon and broccoli are delicious served cold over salads or in grain bowls, so don’t feel obligated to reheat.

Cooking Frozen Salmon and Broccoli in Air Fryer

Can you air fry frozen salmon and broccoli together? Absolutely! Here’s how:

For Frozen Salmon:

No need to thaw—cook directly from frozen
Increase cooking time to 14-18 minutes at 400°F
You may want to add the broccoli after the salmon has cooked for 5-7 minutes since frozen salmon takes longer

For Frozen Broccoli:

Frozen broccoli works well in the air fryer
No need to thaw first
Cooking time is similar to fresh (10-12 minutes)
It may release more moisture, so expect slightly less crispiness than fresh

Tips for Frozen:

Pat frozen salmon dry to remove ice crystals
Spray frozen broccoli with oil and season before air frying
Check temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure salmon reaches 145°F
Frozen items may need an extra 2-4 minutes depending on thickness

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Dry, Overcooked Salmon: Reduce cooking time by 1-2 minutes and use a meat thermometer. Pull salmon at 140°F and let it rest to reach 145°F. Don’t skip the oil coating.

Soggy Broccoli: Your air fryer basket is likely overcrowded. Cook in batches, ensure proper spacing, and make sure broccoli is dry before seasoning.

Undercooked Salmon Center: Your fillets may be thicker than average. Add 2-3 minutes to cooking time and always check internal temperature at the thickest part.

Broccoli Burning While Salmon is Raw: Your broccoli pieces may be too small. Cut larger florets and consider adding broccoli after the salmon has cooked for 3 minutes.

Uneven Cooking: Make sure all pieces are similar in size and properly spaced in the basket. Toss broccoli halfway through cooking.

Food Sticking to Basket: Always spray the basket with cooking spray or brush with oil before adding food. Don’t skip this step!

Not Crispy Enough: Increase temperature to 410°F or add 2-3 minutes to cooking time. Make sure food is properly dried and oiled.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you cook salmon and broccoli together in an air fryer? Yes! Salmon and broccoli have similar cooking times, making them perfect companions for one-basket air frying. Cook at 400°F for 10-12 minutes, tossing the broccoli halfway through.

What temperature should I air fry salmon and broccoli? 400°F (200°C) is the ideal temperature for cooking both salmon and broccoli together. This creates crispy edges while keeping the salmon moist and flaky.

How long does it take to air fry salmon and broccoli? Total cooking time is 10-12 minutes at 400°F for standard thickness fillets and medium-sized broccoli florets. Thicker salmon may need 12-15 minutes.

Do I need to flip the salmon when air frying? No! One of the benefits of air frying is that the circulating hot air cooks the salmon evenly without flipping. However, you should toss the broccoli halfway through for even crisping.

Should I use fresh or frozen salmon and broccoli? Both work well! Fresh cooks faster (10-12 minutes) while frozen needs 14-18 minutes. Adjust timing accordingly and always check internal temperature.

What internal temperature should salmon reach? The USDA recommends 145°F for safety. For medium-rare salmon (with slight translucency in the center), aim for 125-135°F.

Can I meal prep air fryer salmon and broccoli? Absolutely! This is an excellent meal prep option. Cook multiple servings, let cool completely, and store in airtight containers for up to 4 days.

What seasonings work best for salmon and broccoli? Simple salt, pepper, and garlic powder work beautifully. Also try lemon herb, teriyaki, Cajun, Mediterranean, or honey mustard variations.

Do I need oil for air frying salmon and broccoli? Yes, a light coating of oil (about 1 tablespoon per fillet and per cup of broccoli) helps with browning, prevents sticking, and enhances flavor.

Can I add other vegetables with salmon and broccoli? Yes! Asparagus, green beans, cherry tomatoes, and Brussels sprouts all have similar cooking times and work well alongside salmon and broccoli.

How do I prevent my broccoli from getting too dark? If your broccoli browns too quickly, reduce temperature to 380°F and add 2-3 minutes to cooking time, or add broccoli after salmon has cooked for 3 minutes.

Is skin-on or skinless salmon better for air frying? Both work well! Skin-on salmon crisps up beautifully and protects the flesh from overcooking. Skinless is fine too and requires no extra prep.

Why This Recipe Works for Busy Families

Air fry salmon and broccoli is the ultimate weeknight dinner solution for families juggling work, school, activities, and everything in between. The hands-off cooking method means you can help with homework, prep tomorrow’s lunches, or simply take a breather while dinner cooks itself.

Kids often enjoy the mild flavor of properly cooked salmon, especially when it’s crispy on the outside. The broccoli’s crispy edges make it more appealing to picky eaters who might reject steamed vegetables. Plus, the protein and healthy fats keep everyone satisfied and energized.

For parents focused on nutrition, this meal delivers premium omega-3s, complete protein, vitamins, minerals, and fiber—all the good stuff growing bodies need. And with only one basket to clean, you’ll spend less time at the sink and more time with your family.

Final Thoughts

Air fry salmon and broccoli proves that healthy, delicious dinners don’t require complicated techniques or hours in the kitchen. With just two main ingredients, a handful of seasonings, and 12-15 minutes in the air fryer, you can create a restaurant-quality meal that nourishes your body and satisfies your taste buds.

The beauty of this simple recipe lies in its flexibility. Season it simply with salt and pepper for a clean, classic preparation, or go bold with Asian marinades, Mediterranean herbs, or spicy Cajun blends. Serve it over rice for a hearty dinner, toss it with pasta for Italian flair, or pack it into meal prep containers for healthy lunches all week long.

Whether you’re new to cooking salmon or a seasoned pro looking for a faster method, this air fryer technique delivers consistent, impressive results every single time. The combination of crispy-edged broccoli and perfectly cooked salmon creates a complete meal that works for busy weeknights, meal prep sessions, and even special occasions.

Give this air fry salmon and broccoli recipe a try tonight and discover why it’s become a staple in kitchens everywhere. Your family will be requesting this healthy dinner on repeat—and you’ll be happy to make it because it’s just that easy!