Can You Cook Frozen Salmon in an Air Fryer

Can You Cook Frozen Salmon in an Air Fryer? A Step-by-Step Guide to Perfectly Flaky Fish

Cooking frozen salmon in an air fryer is not only possible but also a game-changer for quick, healthy, and delicious meals. If you’ve ever forgotten to thaw your salmon or just want a hassle-free dinner option, the air fryer delivers tender, flaky salmon with a slightly crispy edge in under 20 minutes. I’ve been there—staring at a frozen fillet, wondering how to turn it into dinner without hours of defrosting. After experimenting with my air fryer, I’ve nailed down a method that’s simple, reliable, and packed with flavor. Let’s dive into how to make it happen, with tips to ensure your salmon comes out perfectly every time.

Why Cook Frozen Salmon in an Air Fryer?

The air fryer’s high, circulating heat cooks salmon evenly, keeping it moist while giving the exterior a delightful crisp. Unlike oven-baking, which can take longer and sometimes dry out the fish, or stovetop methods that require constant attention, the air fryer is hands-off and energy-efficient. Plus, cooking from frozen skips the thawing step, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Frozen salmon retains the same nutritional benefits as fresh, including high protein and omega-3 fatty acids, so you’re not sacrificing health for convenience. Healthy Delicious highlights how this method can produce restaurant-quality results in just 15 minutes.

What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to get started:

• Frozen salmon fillets: Opt for individually frozen fillets, about 5-6 ounces each, with or without skin. Wild-caught or farm-raised both work, though wild-caught often has a more robust flavor.
• Oil: Olive oil, avocado oil, or cooking spray to prevent sticking and enhance flavor.
• Seasonings: Keep it simple with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, or get creative with lemon pepper, paprika, or dill.
• Optional extras: Lemon slices or juice for brightness, fresh herbs like thyme or parsley, or a glaze like honey mustard for extra flair.
• Tools: An air fryer (4-5 quart size works well), a meat thermometer for precision, and parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.

Step-by-Step: Cooking Frozen Salmon in the Air Fryer

Here’s a foolproof method to cook frozen salmon in your air fryer, yielding moist, flaky results every time.

Step 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 achieve that slightly crispy exterior. If your air fryer doesn’t require preheating, you can skip this step, but I find it makes a difference for consistent results.

Step 2: Prepare the Salmon

Place the frozen salmon fillets skin-side down in the air fryer basket. If you’re worried about sticking, lightly spray the basket with cooking oil or line it with parchment paper. Don’t overcrowd the basket—air needs to circulate for even cooking. If you’re cooking multiple fillets, work in batches. No seasoning yet—this initial step is about thawing the fish slightly.

Step 3: Thaw and Cook (First Phase)

Cook the frozen salmon at 360°F (180°C) for 5-7 minutes. This step gently thaws the fillets, making them ready to absorb seasonings. After this phase, the salmon should feel slightly softer but not fully cooked. If the fillets are stuck together, gently separate them with a knife.

Step 4: Season the Salmon

Remove the basket from the air fryer. Brush the fillets lightly with olive oil or avocado oil to help the seasonings stick and keep the fish moist. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and your choice of seasonings—garlic powder and paprika are my go-to for a balanced, savory flavor. For a zesty twist, add a squeeze of lemon juice or place thin lemon slices on top. If you’re feeling fancy, try a glaze like Dijon mustard mixed with a touch of maple syrup, as suggested by Downshiftology.

Step 5: Finish Cooking

Return the salmon to the air fryer and cook at 390°F (200°C) for 6-9 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets. Thicker fillets (1- inches) may need closer to 9 minutes, while thinner ones may be done in for doneness by inserting a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the fillet. The USDA recommends an internal temperature of 145°F for safety, but for a more tender, medium texture, aim for 125-130°F, as the fish will continue to cook slightly after removal. Alternatively, the salmon should be opaque and flake easily with a fork.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Let the salmon rest for 2-3 minutes before serving to lock in juices. Garnish with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon for a bright finish. Serve with your favorite sides—think roasted veggies, a simple salad, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Frozen Salmon

• Don’t Overcrowd: Ensure there’s space between fillets for proper air circulation. This prevents uneven cooking.
• Check Thickness: Cooking times vary based on fillet size. Thinner fillets (under 1 inch) may need less time, while thicker ones require more.
• Avoid Overcooking: Overcooked salmon can turn dry. Start checking for doneness early, especially if you prefer a medium texture.
• Skin On or Off?: Cooking with the skin on helps keep the fillet intact and adds a crispy texture. You can easily remove it after cooking if you prefer skinless salmon.
• Experiment with Flavors: Try different seasonings like cajun, teriyaki, or a honey garlic glaze for variety. Add glazes in the final 2-3 minutes to prevent burning.
• Use a Thermometer: A meat thermometer takes the guesswork out of doneness, ensuring perfectly cooked salmon every time.

Why This Method Works

Cooking frozen salmon in the air fryer is a lifesaver because it’s fast, mess-free, and doesn’t require planning ahead. The two-phase cooking process—thawing briefly at a lower temperature and then finishing at a higher one—ensures the salmon cooks evenly without drying out. The air fryer’s convection heat seals in moisture while creating a slightly crispy exterior, mimicking the texture of pan-seared salmon without the oil splatter. Well Plated notes that this method delivers “the best of both worlds: juicy, flaky fish with a lightly crisped exterior.”

Serving Suggestions

Air fryer frozen salmon is incredibly versatile. Here are a few ways to enjoy it:

• With Veggies: Pair with air fryer asparagus or roasted Brussels sprouts for a healthy, complete meal.
• In a Bowl: Flake the salmon over rice, quinoa, or greens with avocado, cucumber, and a drizzle of sriracha mayo for a poke-style bowl.
• As a Main: Serve with mashed potatoes or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option, topped with a creamy dill sauce.
• In Tacos: Break the salmon into chunks and tuck into tortillas with slaw and a squeeze of lime for quick fish tacos.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, use the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes or gently warm on the stovetop to maintain moisture. Avoid the microwave, as it can dry out the fish. For longer storage, freeze cooked salmon in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months, but note that the texture may not be as good after thawing.

Common Questions About Cooking Frozen Salmon in an Air Fryer

Do I need to thaw the salmon first? No! The beauty of this method is that you can cook straight from frozen, saving time and effort.

Can I use fresh salmon instead? Absolutely. For fresh salmon, skip the thawing step and cook at 400°F for 7-9 minutes, adjusting based on thickness.

Will the skin get crispy? The skin won’t be as crispy as pan-seared salmon, but it does develop a pleasant texture when cooked skin-side down. You can remove it easily after cooking if you prefer.

Is frozen salmon as nutritious as fresh? Yes, frozen salmon is often flash-frozen at its peak, locking in nutrients like omega-3s and protein, making it just as healthy as fresh.

Final Thoughts

Cooking frozen salmon in an air fryer is a revelation for anyone who loves quick, healthy meals without sacrificing flavor. With minimal prep and a few simple ingredients, you can have tender, flaky salmon on the table in under 20 minutes. Whether you’re a busy parent, a meal-prep enthusiast, or just someone who forgot to thaw dinner, this method is your ticket to a delicious, stress-free meal. So next time you’re staring at a frozen fillet, fire up your air fryer and give this a try—you won’t be disappointed!