Can You Cook Frozen Salmon in an Air Fryer

I get asked all the time if you can cook frozen salmon in an air fryer, and the answer is a definite yes! The main difference between frozen and fresh salmon is the longer cook time, but once you get the hang of it, it’s pretty simple. One thing I do differently with frozen salmon is wait to baste it until it’s partly air fried. The combination of fresh lemon, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper really sets this seafood recipe apart. Plus, that smoky paprika adds a pop of color, making the salmon look as good as it tastes. This air fryer frozen salmon recipe is one I keep coming back to, whether I’m cooking for guests or just throwing together a quick meal for myself. It’s that good! I love how I can have salmon ready for dinner in under twenty minutes.

Let’s dive into how to make this happen, why it works so well, and some tips to ensure your salmon comes out perfectly every time. Cooking frozen salmon in an air fryer is a game-changer for busy weeknights, and I’ll walk you through the process step-by-step, addressing common questions and potential pitfalls along the way.

Why Cook Frozen Salmon in an Air Fryer?

The air fryer is a fantastic tool for cooking frozen salmon because it combines speed, efficiency, and excellent results. Unlike traditional ovens, which can take time to preheat and may unevenly cook frozen foods, the air fryer’s rapid air circulation ensures even cooking and a slightly crispy exterior while keeping the interior moist and flaky. This method is especially appealing for those who forgot to thaw their salmon or need a healthy, protein-packed meal in a pinch. Plus, salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, making it a nutritious choice that’s naturally gluten-free, low-carb, and compatible with diets like keto and paleo.

One of the biggest advantages is the lack of prep work. There’s no need to thaw the salmon, which saves time and reduces the risk of the fish becoming watery, a common issue with thawing. The air fryer also minimizes cleanup compared to pan-searing, as there’s no oil splatter or greasy pans to scrub. With minimal effort, you can achieve restaurant-quality salmon in under 20 minutes.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking Frozen Salmon in an Air Fryer

Here’s a detailed guide to cooking frozen salmon in your air fryer, designed to yield tender, flaky fillets with a flavorful crust. This method works for both skin-on and skinless salmon, and I’ve included tips to customize the seasoning to your taste.

Ingredients:

• Frozen salmon fillets (5-6 oz each, ideally center-cut and 1- inches thick)
• Olive oil or avocado oil (or cooking spray)
• Lemon juice (fresh or bottled)
• Spices: salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika
• Optional: lemon slices, fresh herbs (dill, parsley, or thyme), or a glaze like honey or Dijon mustard

Equipment:

• Air fryer (4-5 qt or larger recommended)
• Meat thermometer (for precise doneness)
• Parchment paper or silicone liner (optional, for easy cleanup)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 360°F (180°C) and let it preheat for 3-5 minutes. Preheating ensures even cooking and helps create a nice crust on the salmon.
2. Prepare the Salmon: Remove the frozen salmon fillets from their packaging and pat them dry with a paper towel to remove any ice crystals. Place the fillets skin-side down in the air fryer basket. If the fillets are stuck together, don’t force them apart yet; they’ll separate as they cook.
3. Initial Cooking (Thawing Phase): Cook the salmon at 360°F for 5-7 minutes. This step gently thaws the fillets, making them receptive to seasoning. Check if the fillets can be separated now, and spread them out to ensure proper airflow.
4. Season the Salmon: Lightly brush or spray the fillets with olive or avocado oil to prevent sticking and enhance flavor. Sprinkle with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. For a citrusy kick, drizzle with lemon juice or place lemon slices on top. You can also experiment with other seasonings like Cajun spice, lemon pepper, or a touch of brown sugar for a sweet-savory glaze.
5. Final Cooking: Increase the air fryer temperature to 390°F (200°C) and cook for an additional 6-9 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets. The salmon is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F at its thickest part, as recommended by the FDA. For a medium, more tender texture, aim for 125-135°F, as the temperature will rise slightly during resting.
6. Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, or gently flake the salmon with a fork. It should be opaque and easily separate into tender flakes. If it’s not quite done, cook in 1-2 minute increments to avoid overcooking.
7. Serve: Remove the salmon from the air fryer and let it rest for 2-3 minutes. Garnish with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice, and serve with your favorite sides like roasted vegetables, quinoa, or a fresh salad.

Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Frozen Salmon

To ensure your salmon turns out perfectly, keep these tips in mind:

• Choose Quality Salmon: Opt for individually wrapped, wild-caught, or sustainably farmed salmon fillets to minimize freezer burn and maximize flavor. Brands like Sizzlefish or those found at Whole Foods are good options.
• Avoid Overcrowding: Place fillets in a single layer with space between them for proper air circulation. Cook in batches if necessary.
• Don’t Flip: Unlike pan-searing, there’s no need to flip the salmon in the air fryer, as the circulating heat cooks it evenly. Keep it skin-side down to protect the flesh and crisp the skin.
• Customize Seasonings: While simple salt, pepper, and lemon are classic, you can elevate the dish with glazes like teriyaki, maple Dijon, or honey garlic. Apply glazes in the last 1-2 minutes of cooking to prevent burning.
• Use a Thermometer: A meat thermometer is the most reliable way to avoid overcooking. If you prefer medium salmon, remove it at 125-130°F, as carryover cooking will bring it to a safe temperature.
• Easy Cleanup: Line the air fryer basket with parchment paper or a silicone liner to minimize sticking and simplify cleanup. Avoid letting parchment touch the heating element for safety.

Common Questions Answered

Can I cook frozen salmon without thawing? Absolutely! The air fryer is designed to handle frozen foods, and cooking salmon straight from the freezer yields excellent results. The initial low-temperature phase ensures even thawing and cooking.

How long does it take? Total cooking time is typically 12-16 minutes, depending on fillet thickness and your air fryer model. Thinner fillets (under 1 inch) may take as little as 12 minutes, while thicker ones ( inches) may need up to 18 minutes.

Will the skin be crispy? The skin won’t be as crispy as pan-seared salmon, but cooking skin-side down in the air fryer gives it a pleasant texture. If you don’t like the skin, it’s easy to remove after cooking.

Can I use fresh salmon instead? Yes, but reduce the cooking time. For fresh salmon, skip the thawing phase and cook at 400°F for 7-9 minutes, checking for doneness at 145°F. See this fresh salmon recipe for more details.

How do I store leftovers? Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes or enjoy cold in salads or tacos. To freeze, wrap tightly in plastic and place in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.

Pairing Suggestions

Air fryer frozen salmon is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides. For a healthy meal, try it with air fryer asparagus, roasted Brussels sprouts, or cauliflower rice. For something heartier, serve with creamy mashed potatoes, quinoa, or a side of rice pilaf. A fresh green salad with a lemon vinaigrette complements the salmon’s richness, while a drizzle of homemade sauce—like bacon aioli or honey garlic—adds a gourmet touch. For inspiration, check out this collection of salmon serving ideas.

Why This Method Stands Out

Compared to other cooking methods, the air fryer offers unmatched convenience and consistency for frozen salmon. Baking frozen salmon in the oven can take 25-30 minutes and often results in uneven cooking, while pan-searing requires thawing and can lead to oil splatter. The air fryer’s compact size and powerful convection heat make it ideal for quick, mess-free meals without sacrificing flavor or texture. Plus, it’s energy-efficient, saving you from heating up a full oven.

Many online recipes for air fryer frozen salmon are overly simplistic, offering vague instructions or generic seasonings that don’t maximize flavor. Others fail to address common issues like sticking or overcooking. This guide provides precise temperatures, timings, and tips tailored to different fillet sizes and preferences, ensuring foolproof results whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned cook.

Cook frozen salmon in an air fryer with this easy recipe. Forget to thaw your salmon? No problem! You can whip up the sauce while the air fryer is preheating and have dinner on the table in 20 minutes.