If you’re looking for a quick, wholesome dinner that feels fancy but comes together with almost zero fuss, you’ll fall head over heels for my Air Fryer Salmon Patties with Lemon and Chives Recipe. These patties are crisp on the outside, tender and flavorful inside, with that beautiful brightness from lemon and the subtle zing of chives. I love how they come out perfectly cooked in the air fryer, making clean-up a breeze and keeping the kitchen cool, especially on busy weeknights.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Healthy & Gluten-Free: Made with fresh salmon and almond flour, this recipe skips bread crumbs but keeps all the flavor and texture.
- Effortless Air Fryer Magic: You’ll get crispy, perfectly cooked patties in just minutes with minimal mess.
- Bright Flavor Boosted by Lemon & Chives: The fresh lemon juice and chives really elevate the patties without overpowering the salmon.
- Family Friendly: These salmon patties have been a hit with my family and friends who often claim “fish patties” are their new favorite dinner.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Air Fryer Salmon Patties with Lemon and Chives Recipe comes down to simple, fresh ingredients that play so well together. When shopping, look for freshest salmon you can find, and fresh chives will make a big difference in flavor.
- Fresh Salmon Fillet: Skin removed and fresh is best for the juiciest patties; I like wild-caught when possible.
- Almond Flour: This keeps the patties gluten-free and adds a mild nutty crunch without overpowering the salmon.
- Egg: Acts as your binder to keep the patties together without using breadcrumbs.
- Onion (medium-sized): Adds sweetness and depth; chopping finely helps distribute flavor evenly.
- Fresh Chives: A subtle oniony note that pairs wonderfully with lemon and salmon.
- Fresh Lemon Juice: Brightens up the patties and lifts their whole flavor profile.
- Garlic Powder: Just enough for a hint of savory warmth.
- Kosher Salt: Essential for enhancing all the flavors.
- Ground Black Pepper: For a gentle bite and balance.
Variations
I like to keep the base of this recipe classic, but every time I make it, I’m tempted to tweak it a bit. It’s so versatile — you can easily make it your own.
- Spicy Variation: Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce before shaping the patties gives them a kick that my spice-loving friends adore.
- Herb Swap: If I don’t have chives, I sometimes use dill or parsley for a different but equally fresh taste.
- Panko or Bread Crumbs: If you’re not gluten-free, adding panko breadcrumbs can create even crispier patties – but almond flour keeps it lighter and grain-free.
- Cheese Addition: Incorporating a tablespoon of grated parmesan or feta can add a lovely savory tang that my family goes crazy for.
How to Make Air Fryer Salmon Patties with Lemon and Chives Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Pulse Your Ingredients
Start by cutting the salmon fillet into a few smaller pieces. Toss all the ingredients into your food processor and pulse on high until everything is nicely combined but still a bit chunky — don’t puree it smooth! You want little bits of salmon, onion, and chives to peek through. This keeps your patties nice and textured.
Step 2: Shape and Chill Your Patties
Using your hands, form the mixture into four patties, each about 3 inches across. This is the perfect size for a satisfying meal without being too bulky. Pop them into the fridge for about 30 minutes. This chill time is key — it helps them hold together and develop those flavors.
Step 3: Air Fry to Crispy Perfection
Spray your air fryer basket with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking. Arrange the patties in a single layer, giving them a little breathing room. Don’t crowd the basket! Spray the tops of the patties lightly too for extra crispness. Set your air fryer to 400°F and cook for 10 to 12 minutes — you’ll watch them turn golden brown and smell utterly delicious. Flip halfway if you want, but I find they crisp beautifully without it.
Pro Tips for Making Air Fryer Salmon Patties with Lemon and Chives Recipe
- Don’t Overprocess: I learned early on that pulsing instead of blending smooth keeps the patties from turning into fish mush — texture is everything!
- Chill Before Cooking: Refrigerating the patties helps them hold their shape in the fryer, so don’t skip this step.
- Non-Stick Spray on Both Sides: Spraying the tops and bottoms ensures you get that crispy golden crust without sticking.
- Avoid Crowding the Basket: Air needs to circulate to crisp the patties evenly — cooking in batches is better than squishing them in.
How to Serve Air Fryer Salmon Patties with Lemon and Chives Recipe
Garnishes
I always top mine with a dollop of creamy tartar sauce or a squeeze of fresh lemon. Sometimes I sprinkle extra chopped chives or a little dill for that herbaceous pop. It just makes every bite sing.
Side Dishes
These salmon patties shine alongside a crisp green salad, garlic roasted asparagus, or even some creamy mashed potatoes. For a more casual vibe, place them on a toasted bun with lettuce and tomato for a fish burger sensation.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party, I like to serve mini salmon sliders topped with microgreens and a lemon aioli drizzle on small brioche buns. Or try stacking patties with avocado slices and pickled onions for a delightful mix of textures and flavors that’ll wow guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers — and honestly, they’re so good you might! — store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. I usually layer parchment paper between patties to keep them from sticking together.
Freezing
I’ve frozen these patties successfully by placing them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freezing until solid. Once firm, transfer them to a freezer bag. They’ll stay good for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftover salmon patties in the air fryer at 350°F for about 4-5 minutes to keep the exterior crispy. Avoid microwaving as it tends to make them soggy and less appetizing.
FAQs
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Can I use canned salmon instead of fresh for this recipe?
You definitely can use canned salmon in a pinch, but the texture and flavor will be different. I find fresh salmon provides the best texture when air frying, but if using canned, make sure to drain it well and adjust moisture so patties hold together.
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How do I know when the salmon patties are fully cooked?
The patties should be golden brown on the outside and firm to the touch. Using an air fryer at 400°F for 10-12 minutes usually does the trick. If you’re unsure, you can cut open one patty to check for opaque salmon rather than translucent.
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Are these salmon patties keto-friendly?
Yes! Since they use almond flour instead of traditional breadcrumbs, and fats from salmon, they work perfectly in a keto diet.
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Can I bake these salmon patties instead of air frying?
Absolutely! You can bake them at 400°F on a parchment-lined baking sheet for about 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and cooked through.
Final Thoughts
This Air Fryer Salmon Patties with Lemon and Chives Recipe has become one of my go-to quick meals when I want something nutritious that still feels special. The crispy texture combined with bright lemon and fresh herbs always impresses. Trust me, once you try making salmon patties this way, you’ll be amazed at how effortless and delicious healthy cooking can be. I can’t recommend it enough—go ahead, give it a whirl and share with people you love!
Print
Air Fryer Salmon Patties with Lemon and Chives Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 patties
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
These Air Fryer Salmon Patties are a delicious and healthy way to enjoy fresh salmon. Made with almond flour and simple seasonings, these gluten-free and dairy-free patties are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Perfect served with a side salad or on a burger bun for a satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
Salmon Patties
- 1 small salmon fillet, skin removed (about 5 ounces)
- 2/3 cup almond flour
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 medium-sized onion, chopped
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
- Non-stick cooking spray, for air fryer basket and patties
Instructions
- Prepare the Salmon Mixture: Cut the salmon fillet into a few pieces and place them along with almond flour, egg, chopped onion, chopped fresh chives, lemon juice, garlic powder, kosher salt, and ground black pepper into a food processor.
- Pulse Ingredients: Process on high until the ingredients are combined but still have small pieces of salmon, onion, and chives visible to maintain texture.
- Form Patties: Shape the mixture into 4 equal patties, each about 3 inches in diameter.
- Refrigerate Patties: Place the patties in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to help them firm up and hold their shape during cooking.
- Prepare Air Fryer: Spray the air fryer basket with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Arrange Patties: Place the salmon patties in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they do not overlap. Spray the tops of the patties lightly with cooking spray.
- Air Fry: Cook the patties at 400°F for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through if desired, until they are cooked through and crispy on the outside.
- Serve: Remove the patties from the air fryer and serve immediately with your choice of sides such as a fresh salad or on a burger bun.
Notes
- These patties are made with fresh salmon and almond flour, making them gluten-free and dairy-free.
- No breadcrumbs or crackers are used, providing a low-carb alternative to traditional salmon patties.
- Ensure patties are chilled before cooking to help them hold together better in the air fryer.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, adding herbs or spices as preferred.
- Serve with a light salad or sandwich buns for a complete meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 patties
- Calories: 358 calories
- Sugar: 2.8 g
- Sodium: 673.8 mg
- Fat: 12.4 g
- Saturated Fat: 1.4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 10.7 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 24.8 g
- Cholesterol: 129.1 mg
