Air Fryer Salmon Tacos With Slaw

Featured in: Main Dishes

These vibrant tacos feature perfectly seasoned salmon fillets cooked to crispy perfection in the air fryer. The fish gets a rub of chili powder, garlic, and smoked paprika, then air fries in just 10 minutes. While the salmon cooks, toss together a quick slaw with shredded cabbage, fresh cilantro, Greek yogurt, and lime juice. Serve everything in warm corn tortillas for a complete meal that comes together in under 30 minutes.

Updated on Mon, 26 Jan 2026 00:24:04 GMT
Crispy air fried salmon tacos with slaw piled high in warm corn tortillas, garnished with fresh cilantro and lime wedges for a zesty finish. Save
Crispy air fried salmon tacos with slaw piled high in warm corn tortillas, garnished with fresh cilantro and lime wedges for a zesty finish. | cheerfulchefs.com

Experience the perfect combination of textures and flavors with these Air Fryer Salmon Tacos. This recipe transforms skinless salmon fillets into crispy, spice-rubbed delights using the efficiency of the air fryer. Served in warm corn tortillas and topped with a bright, tangy cabbage slaw, it is a wholesome and vibrant meal that comes together in just 25 minutes.

Crispy air fried salmon tacos with slaw piled high in warm corn tortillas, garnished with fresh cilantro and lime wedges for a zesty finish. Save
Crispy air fried salmon tacos with slaw piled high in warm corn tortillas, garnished with fresh cilantro and lime wedges for a zesty finish. | cheerfulchefs.com

Whether you are looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a nutritious meal to share with friends, these tacos are sure to impress. The blend of chili powder, smoked paprika, and garlic powder creates a smoky profile that pairs beautifully with the zest of fresh lime juice and cilantro.

Ingredients

  • For the Salmon: 4 skinless salmon fillets (4 oz each), 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 teaspoon chili powder, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1/2 teaspoon salt.
  • For the Slaw: 2 cups shredded cabbage (red or green), 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro, 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt, 1 tablespoon lime juice, salt and pepper to taste.
  • For Serving: 8 small corn tortillas.
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Instructions

Step 1
Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Rub each fillet with olive oil, then season evenly with the chili powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and salt.
Step 2
Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 2 minutes.
Step 3
While the air fryer preheats, prepare the slaw. In a medium bowl, combine shredded cabbage, chopped cilantro, Greek yogurt, lime juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Toss well and set aside.
Step 4
Place the seasoned salmon fillets in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Air fry for 8–10 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
Step 5
While the salmon cooks, warm the corn tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave until they are pliable.
Step 6
Flake the cooked salmon into large pieces. To assemble, layer salmon onto each tortilla and top generously with the prepared cabbage slaw. Garnish with extra cilantro or a squeeze of lime as desired.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

To ensure the best results, always pat the salmon dry before applying the oil and spices; this helps the seasoning adhere and improves the exterior texture. Cooking times can vary based on the thickness of your fillets, so check for doneness at the 8-minute mark.

Varianten und Anpassungen

For those who prefer extra heat, consider adding sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the slaw. To make this recipe dairy-free, simply substitute the Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt alternative or mayonnaise. Flour tortillas can be substituted for corn if you aren't strictly avoiding gluten.

Serviervorschläge

Enhance the presentation and flavor by serving the tacos with fresh avocado slices and extra lime wedges. For a beverage pairing, a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light, refreshing lager complements the zesty and smoky flavors of the dish perfectly.

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| cheerfulchefs.com

These Air Fryer Salmon Tacos are a testament to how simple ingredients and modern kitchen tools can create a restaurant-quality meal at home. Serve them immediately while the salmon is hot and the tortillas are soft for the ultimate dining experience.

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Recipe FAQs

What temperature should I cook the salmon?

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and cook the salmon for 8–10 minutes, until it flakes easily with a fork.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, substitute the Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt alternative or mayonnaise for the slaw dressing.

What type of tortillas work best?

Small corn tortillas are traditional and typically gluten-free, but flour tortillas can be used if preferred.

How do I know when the salmon is done?

The salmon is finished when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.

Can I add extra toppings?

Absolutely. Try adding sliced jalapeños, avocado slices, extra cilantro, or a squeeze of fresh lime juice.

Air Fryer Salmon Tacos With Slaw

Crispy air-fried salmon with tangy cabbage slaw in warm corn tortillas ready in 25 minutes

Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
10 minutes
Overall Time
25 minutes
Creator Ruby Smiles

Recipe Type Main Dishes

Skill Level Easy

Cuisine Background Mexican-Inspired

Portions 4 Serves

Dietary Preferences Gluten-Free Option

What You’ll Need

Salmon

01 4 salmon fillets, skinless, 4 ounces each
02 1 tablespoon olive oil
03 1 teaspoon chili powder
04 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
05 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
06 1/2 teaspoon salt

Slaw

01 2 cups shredded cabbage, red or green
02 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
03 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
04 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
05 1/4 teaspoon salt, optional
06 Freshly ground black pepper to taste

Assembly

01 8 small corn tortillas

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 01

Prepare salmon: Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Coat evenly with olive oil and season with chili powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and salt.

Step 02

Preheat air fryer: Set air fryer temperature to 400°F and preheat for 2 minutes.

Step 03

Compose slaw: In a medium bowl, combine shredded cabbage, cilantro, Greek yogurt, lime juice, salt, and black pepper. Toss until evenly coated and set aside.

Step 04

Cook salmon: Arrange salmon fillets in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 8 to 10 minutes until flesh flakes easily with a fork, adjusting time based on fillet thickness.

Step 05

Warm tortillas: Heat corn tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave until pliable and warm.

Step 06

Assemble tacos: Flake cooked salmon into large pieces. Layer onto each tortilla, generously top with slaw, and garnish with additional cilantro or lime juice as desired. Serve immediately.

Tools You’ll Need

  • Air fryer
  • Mixing bowls
  • Measuring spoons
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Tongs or spatula
  • Skillet or microwave

Potential Allergens

Inspect ingredients for specific allergens and contact a professional for concerns.
  • Contains fish and dairy from Greek yogurt
  • Corn tortillas typically gluten-free but verify packaging for cross-contamination

Nutritional Details (Per Serving)

Provided as supportive info; always cross-check with your healthcare provider.
  • Calories: 350
  • Fats: 15 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 28 grams
  • Proteins: 28 grams