Air Fryer Honey Mustard Pecan Crusted Salmon

Some recipes just stick with you, and this honey mustard pecan crusted salmon is one of them. The first time I made it, I was trying to impress dinner guests with something elegant but not fussy. The result? Golden, crunchy pecans over tender, flaky salmon with a tangy-sweet honey mustard glaze. They thought I spent hours making it. I didn’t.

What makes this recipe shine is how the air fryer locks in moisture while crisping the topping to perfection. No soggy crusts or overcooked fish here. And bonus: it comes together in under 20 minutes.

The flavor? Think sweet and savory with a nutty crunch. The mustard gives a zing, the honey balances it out, and the pecans give it that satisfying texture. It’s my go-to when I want something fast but a little fancy.

Ingredients Overview

• Salmon fillets – Fresh or thawed, skin-on or off. I like 6-ounce portions.
• Dijon mustard – For that bold tangy base.
• Honey – Sweetens the glaze just enough.
• Garlic powder – A little umami boost.
• Salt & pepper – Season to taste.
• Chopped pecans – Finely chopped works best so they stick.
• Panko breadcrumbs – Optional, for extra crunch.
• Olive oil spray – Helps crisp everything up.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3 minutes.

2. Prep the salmon: Pat fillets dry with a paper towel and season with salt and pepper.

3. Make the glaze: In a small bowl, mix 2 tbsp Dijon mustard, 1 tbsp honey, and 1/2 tsp garlic powder.

4. Mix the topping: Combine 1/2 cup chopped pecans and 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs (optional) in another bowl.

5. Assemble: Brush the glaze over the top of each fillet, then press the pecan mixture firmly on top.

6. Air fry: Place fillets in the air fryer basket (skin-side down if applicable). Spray tops lightly with olive oil spray.

7. Cook for 8–10 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through and the pecans are golden. Don’t overcrowd the basket!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping the pat-dry step: Moisture on the fillets prevents the topping from sticking.
• Overcrowding: Give each fillet space so air can circulate and crisp the crust.
• Not chopping pecans finely enough: Larger pieces fall off.
• Using too much glaze: It can slide off and cause burning.

Variations & Add-Ons

• Spicy kick: Add a little cayenne or hot honey to the glaze.
• Citrus twist: A splash of orange juice or zest brightens the flavor.
• Gluten-free: Skip the panko or use GF breadcrumbs.
• Serve with: Roasted asparagus, garlic mashed potatoes, or a crisp arugula salad.

Honey Mustard Pecan Crusted Salmon

A quick, flavorful salmon dish with a crunchy pecan topping and tangy-sweet honey mustard glaze.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 15 minutes mins

Servings: 2 servings

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• Ingredients
• 2 salmon fillets about 6 oz each
• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• Salt & pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup finely chopped pecans
• 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs optional
• Olive oil spray

Equipment

• Air fryer

Method

 

1. Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. Pat salmon dry, season with salt and pepper.
3. Mix Dijon mustard, honey, and garlic powder.
4. In another bowl, mix pecans and panko.
5. Brush glaze on salmon, press topping on firmly.
6. Place in air fryer basket, spray lightly with oil.
7. Air fry 8–10 min until salmon is flaky and topping is golden.

Notes

Use gluten-free panko if needed. Store leftovers in fridge up to 2 days. Reheat in air fryer for crispiness.

Calories: ~400 per serving

If you give this one a try, let me know how it turned out in the comments below!

Looking for more air fryer salmon ideas? Try our teriyaki glaze version or simple lemon garlic salmon next.