Air Fryer Salmon with Chardonnay Butter Sauce
There’s something undeniably delightful about a perfectly cooked salmon fillet, and when you prepare it in an air fryer, you can achieve that crispy exterior and tender interior without fussing over a hot stove. This Air Fryer Salmon with Chardonnay Butter Sauce is not just a meal; it’s an experience. The harmony of flavors from the chardonnay, artichokes, and fresh herbs creates a dish that feels gourmet yet is incredibly easy to whip up at home. Whether you’re planning a cozy dinner for two or a small gathering with friends, this dish is sure to impress.
Top Reasons to Make Air Fryer Salmon with Chardonnay Butter Sauce
- Quick and Easy: The air fryer cooks salmon quickly while allowing you to focus on preparing the sauce.
- Flavorful and Rich: The combination of chardonnay and butter elevates the salmon into a restaurant-quality dish.
- Healthy Choice: Salmon is packed with omega-3 fatty acids, making this meal both delicious and nutritious.
- Versatile: Pair it with your favorite sides for a complete meal that can be enjoyed any night of the week.
- Minimal Cleanup: Cooking in the air fryer means fewer pots and pans to wash!
Ingredient Notes
- 4 (6-ounce) salmon fillets: Choose fillets with the skin on for added flavor and crispiness.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: This helps the seasoning adhere to the salmon and adds a hint of flavor.
- Garlic powder, salt, and freshly ground black pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance the taste of the salmon.
- ¾ cup heavy whipping cream: Provides a rich, creamy base for the sauce.
- ¾ cup diced artichoke hearts: Adds a unique flavor and texture that complements the salmon.
- 3 tablespoons chardonnay: A splash of wine that infuses the sauce with depth.
- 2 tablespoons salted butter: Adds richness and a velvety finish to the sauce.
- 2 teaspoons freshly squeezed lemon juice: A bright note that balances the creaminess of the sauce.
- 2 teaspoons finely chopped fresh parsley: For garnish and a pop of freshness.
Equipment Breakdown
- Air Fryer: The star of the show, allowing you to achieve a perfectly cooked salmon with minimal effort.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurately measuring ingredients to ensure the best flavor.
- Mixing Bowl: To combine the sauce ingredients easily.
- Spatula: For flipping the salmon and serving the dish.
Air Fryer Salmon with Chardonnay Butter Sauce — Do This Next
Step 1: Prepare the Salmon
Start by patting the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel. This ensures a crispy texture when cooked. Drizzle the olive oil over the fillets, then season generously with garlic powder, salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
Step 2: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. Preheating helps achieve that desirable crispy exterior.
Step 3: Air Fry the Salmon
Place the seasoned salmon fillets in the air fryer basket, skin side down. Cook for 8-10 minutes or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Cooking time may vary based on the thickness of the fillets.
Step 4: Make the Chardonnay Butter Sauce
While the salmon is cooking, prepare the sauce. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the heavy whipping cream, diced artichoke hearts, chardonnay, and butter. Stir until the butter has melted, and the mixture is heated through. Add the freshly squeezed lemon juice and stir to combine.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Once the salmon is done, carefully remove it from the air fryer. Plate the salmon and drizzle the warm chardonnay butter sauce over the top. Garnish with finely chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
Adaptations for Special Diets
- Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy whipping cream with coconut cream and use dairy-free butter alternatives.
- Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, so you can enjoy it without any modifications.
- Paleo: Replace the heavy cream with coconut milk and omit the butter for a paleo-friendly option.
- Low-Carb/Keto: This dish is low in carbs, making it suitable for keto diets as well.
Things That Go Wrong
- Overcooking the Salmon: Keep an eye on the cooking time; overcooked salmon can become dry. Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness.
- Not Preheating the Air Fryer: Skipping this step may lead to uneven cooking.
- Thick Fillets: If your salmon fillets are thicker than 1 inch, you may need to increase the cooking time slightly.
- Clumpy Sauce: Stir the sauce continuously while heating to prevent clumps from forming.
Freezer-Friendly Notes
While it’s best to enjoy salmon fresh, you can freeze the air-fried fillets for later. Allow the cooked salmon to cool completely, then wrap each fillet tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently in the air fryer or oven to maintain texture. The chardonnay butter sauce can also be made ahead and refrigerated for up to three days.
Air Fryer Salmon with Chardonnay Butter Sauce FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon fillets. However, they will need to be thawed completely before seasoning and cooking to ensure even cooking.
What can I serve with Air Fryer Salmon?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides such as roasted vegetables, quinoa, or a fresh green salad. You can also serve it over pasta for a more filling meal.
How do I know when the salmon is fully cooked?
The salmon is fully cooked when it flakes easily with a fork and has an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Using a meat thermometer is the best way to ensure perfect doneness.
Can I make the sauce in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the chardonnay butter sauce ahead of time. Store it in the refrigerator and reheat gently before serving with the salmon.
Ready, Set, Cook
Enjoy the simplicity and elegance of this Air Fryer Salmon with Chardonnay Butter Sauce. Cooking in an air fryer makes it easier than ever to create a delicious, restaurant-quality meal at home. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned pro, this dish is sure to impress. Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and before you know it, you’ll be savoring a beautifully cooked salmon fillet topped with a luscious sauce. Bon appétit!
Air Fryer Salmon with Chardonnay Butter Sauce
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by patting the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel. Drizzle the olive oil over the fillets, then season generously with garlic powder, salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. Preheating helps achieve that desirable crispy exterior.
- Place the seasoned salmon fillets in the air fryer basket, skin side down. Cook for 8-10 minutes or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- While the salmon is cooking, prepare the sauce. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the heavy whipping cream, diced artichoke hearts, chardonnay, and butter. Stir until the butter has melted and the mixture is heated through. Add the freshly squeezed lemon juice and stir to combine.
- Once the salmon is done, carefully remove it from the air fryer. Plate the salmon and drizzle the warm chardonnay butter sauce over the top. Garnish with finely chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
Notes
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness.
- This dish pairs well with roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad.
- Freeze cooked salmon tightly wrapped for later use.
