How Long Should I Cook Salmon in the Air Fryer

Air fryer salmon is one of my go-to busy weeknight dinners because it only takes 10 minutes to cook in a preheated air fryer at 400 degrees F. I always recommend placing salmon or any other fish skin-side down in the air fryer. I find this cooks the fish more evenly and also makes it easier to remove from the air fryer once it’s ready. I cook salmon in the air fryer at 400 degrees F. This helps the skin get crispy without drying out the fillets. It is done when it reaches a temperature of 145 degrees F. To reheat salmon in the air fryer, I preheat the air fryer to 370 degrees F, then cook the fish skin-side down for about 4 minutes or until it’s heated all the way through. When I’m cooking salmon in the air fryer, I usually don’t flip it. It cooks beautifully without it, plus it’s easier! The only time I flip salmon is when I’m cooking it with the skin on and want extra crispy skin, and then I’ll flip it with 3-4 minutes left in the cooking time.

Cooking salmon in an air fryer is a game-changer for anyone who loves a quick, healthy, and delicious meal. The air fryer’s ability to produce crispy edges and a tender, flaky interior makes it an ideal tool for salmon, but getting the timing right is key to avoiding dry or undercooked fish. Based on an analysis of top-ranking Google pages for “How Long Should I Cook Salmon in the Air Fryer,” most articles provide a general cooking time of 6-12 minutes at temperatures between 350°F and 400°F, depending on the fillet’s thickness and whether it’s fresh or frozen. They also address common questions like seasoning options, skin-on versus skinless, and preheating the air fryer. However, many lack detailed guidance on adjusting for different air fryer models, handling glazes or marinades, or ensuring consistent results across various salmon cuts. Below, I’ll dive into a comprehensive guide that fills these gaps, offering practical tips and precise instructions to help you nail air fryer salmon every time.

Understanding Cooking Times and Temperatures

The cooking time for salmon in an air fryer depends on several factors: the thickness of the fillet, whether it’s fresh or frozen, and the specific air fryer model. For a standard 6-ounce salmon fillet that’s about 1 inch thick, most sources recommend cooking at 400°F for 7-10 minutes. Thicker fillets ( inches) may need 10-12 minutes, while thinner ones might be done in as little as 6-8 minutes. To ensure perfect doneness, aim for an internal temperature of 145°F, as recommended by the FDA, though some prefer 135°F for a medium-rare texture, allowing the fish to rest and rise in temperature slightly after cooking.

If you’re working with frozen salmon, you can cook it directly in the air fryer without thawing, which is a huge time-saver. Start by preheating the air fryer to 390°F, cook the frozen fillets for 4-5 minutes to thaw slightly, then proceed with your seasoning and cook for an additional 7-10 minutes. Check for doneness with a fork (the fish should flake easily) or a meat thermometer. For example, Wholesome Yum suggests this method for frozen salmon, noting that it maintains a moist texture when done correctly.

Skin-On vs. Skinless Salmon

Whether to use skin-on or skinless salmon is a common question. Skin-on fillets are often preferred because the skin acts as a protective barrier, keeping the fish moist and making it easier to remove from the air fryer basket. You can place the salmon skin-side down and cook it without flipping, as the air fryer’s circulating heat cooks it evenly. If you want crispy skin, try flipping the fillet skin-side up for the last 3-4 minutes of cooking. Skinless fillets work fine too, but you’ll need to grease the basket with olive oil or use parchment paper to prevent sticking. After cooking, the skin can be easily peeled off if you don’t want to eat it.

Seasoning and Marinades

Salmon’s rich flavor pairs well with simple seasonings or bold glazes. A basic mix of olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper is a crowd-pleaser, as seen in recipes from sites like Feel Good Foodie. For a sweet and savory twist, try a glaze of brown sugar, soy sauce, and garlic, but apply it sparingly to avoid burning. Since sugary glazes can caramelize quickly at high temperatures, brush them on during the last 1-2 minutes of cooking or use a lower temperature (350°F) if applying from the start. Alternatively, drizzle glazes like hot honey or teriyaki sauce after cooking to keep things mess-free. For inspiration, check out The Mediterranean Dish, which uses a spice-infused olive oil rub for a flavorful crust.

Preheating and Air Fryer Variability

Preheating the air fryer is a debated topic. Some recipes, like those from RecipeTeacher, emphasize preheating at 390°F for 5 minutes to ensure crispy edges, while others skip it to save time. Preheating is generally a good idea for even cooking, especially if you want a seared exterior, but it’s not mandatory. Air fryers vary significantly in performance—basket-style models often cook hotter than toaster-oven types—so it’s wise to check your salmon a minute or two before the recommended time. If your air fryer runs hot, consider lowering the temperature to 380°F and extending the cooking time slightly.

Tips for Consistent Results

To avoid common pitfalls, follow these practical tips:

– Pat the salmon dry with paper towels before seasoning to ensure a crispy exterior.

– Don’t overcrowd the basket. Cook in batches if needed to allow proper air circulation.

– Use foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup, but ensure it’s cut to fit without touching the heating element.

– Check doneness early, especially with thinner fillets, to prevent overcooking.

– If using a marinade, avoid soaking the salmon for too long (30 minutes max), as it can make the texture mushy.

These steps address the inconsistencies noted in some top-ranking articles, where vague instructions lead to uneven results.

Handling Different Cuts and Sizes

Not all salmon fillets are created equal. Center-cut fillets are thicker and cook more evenly, while tail-end pieces are thinner and may require less time. If your fillets vary in thickness, consider cutting them into uniform portions or checking each piece individually. For larger cuts, like a whole side of salmon, increase the cooking time by 2-4 minutes and use a lower temperature (around 350°F) to ensure even cooking, as suggested by I Am a Food Blog. This approach prevents the exterior from drying out before the center is done.

Serving and Storing

Air fryer salmon is versatile and pairs well with sides like roasted vegetables, quinoa, or a fresh salad. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the fish before serving for a bright, zesty finish. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for 2 months. To reheat, use the air fryer at 370°F for 3-4 minutes to maintain the texture, avoiding the microwave, which can make the fish rubbery.

Perfectly cooked salmon in just 8 minutes? The air fryer can do that! … Nick has been creating recipes for home cooks for almost 15 years. He is the author of Love Your Leftovers and has contributed to Simply Recipes since Don’t Want to Lose the Skin? Do This! … Salmon is a quick, easy, and healthy dinner option. While there are many ways to make salmon from baking and grilling it to simply searing it in a pan, the air fryer is a fantastic option, especially if you are trying to make four servings or less! The worry with cooking salmon in an air fryer is that you might overcook it. Watch the timer on the air fryer and don’t blast the fish with too much heat as it can dry out quickly. However, it is one of the easiest and quickest ways to make very delicious salmon for dinner! … The air fryer is a modern kitchen marvel. It allows you to cook at a high, consistent temperature.