Chipotle Salmon

Easy Chipotle Salmon makes a quick and delicious protein option for any meal! It’s only 2 ingredients and can be cooked in the air fryer or oven. Low carb, paleo, keto, gluten-free, dairy-free, and Whole30 approved!

It’s that crazy time of year when we have a million things going on, are surrounded by every sweet in the world, and just don’t know whether to eat something healthy or throw in the towel. I’m here to help with an easy weeknight dinner that takes no time to whip up – chipotle salmon!

It’s spicy and savory and makes the perfect protein for a quick meal. Serve with with some veggies and carbs and you are good to go! Oh and did I mention it’s only 2 ingredients?!

Salmon is one of my favorite seafoods. Not only is it really easy to whip up for a quick meal, it’s also really good for you – it’s full of protein, omega 3s, high in B12 (and all B vitamins), and also has iron, potassium, selenium, and vitamin D. Pretty much a nutritional powerhouse!

I made this chipotle salmon randomly one night for dinner when I was trying to use up some stuff in the fridge. I had some leftover chipotle mayo and figured I would just slather it on top of some salmon I defrosted and bake it.

It turned out to be so good, and so freaking easy, I figured I would share.

Sometimes we can overcomplicate meals and think we have to make some elaborate recipe for dinner. Well I’m here to tell you that is far from the truth.

Most of the time in our house we have some kind of protein and pair it with some veggies and carb. And that is exactly what you can do with this!

Chipotle Salmon

Two ingredient Whole30 salmon to make your meal time easier than ever! While I love making homemade mayo, you can buy store bought if you like to make it even easier. Or just mix in chipotle paste or chipotle powder with plain mayo.

Here is what you need:

• salmon – I love ButcherBox!
• chipotle mayo

Yep that is seriously it. It doesn’t get much easier than this!!

First start off by making the chipotle mayo if needed. I find that it is best to make it in advance so it has some time to firm up a little in the fridge.

Then pat dry the salmon filets. You want to make sure they are dry so the mayo sticks to it. Then you pick your way of baking. I am sharing two ways here – either the air fryer (one of my favorite kitchen appliances) or in the oven.

Either way is great. I honestly prefer the air fryer a little more as it gets the top nice and golden brown, but I know not everyone has one. To finish it off, I like to top with some lime juice and chopped cilantro to add some freshness.

How to cook salmon in the air fryer:

Place salmon in your air fryer basket and set for 6-8 minutes at 400 degrees. Time will depend on how thick your salmon is and your desired preference for fish.

How to cook salmon in the oven:

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and roast salmon for 8-12 minutes at 450 degrees. Again, time will depend on the thickness of your filet and your desired doneness. For reference, it is about 4-6 minutes per half inch of thickness.

How to tell when salmon is done:

You can tell when salmon is done when it changes from the raw orange/red color to an opaque orange/pink color. When you stick a fork in it and it flakes easily, it is done.

What to Serve with Chipotle Salmon

The beauty of this Whole30 salmon is it is so simple and versatile when serving. Pair with some carbs and veggies and you are good to go. Here are some suggestions for serving:

• with white rice or cauliflower rice – check out these 6 different cauliflower rice recipes (the cilantro lime would go so well!) or pair it with this green rice if you like grains
• on top of a salad full with veggies – a great way to use up leftovers too, if you have any
• Mexican coleslaw – a great way to use up the rest of the chipotle mayo!

More Healthy Salmon Recipes

Harissa Salmon Burgers with Harissa Aioli

Air Fryer Salmon & Asparagus

Salmon Poke Bowl

Meal Prep Smoked Salmon Breakfast Bowl

Beet & Smoked Salmon Frittata

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