Why You’ll Love How to Cook Frozen Salmon in Air Fryer Recipe
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It cooks straight from frozen, so there is no need to thaw the salmon.
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The air fryer creates a slightly crispy outside while keeping the inside moist and flaky.
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It takes only about 15 minutes from start to finish.
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The ingredients are simple and commonly found in most kitchens.
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It’s a healthy, high-protein meal that pairs well with many side dishes.
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The recipe works with both skin-on and skinless salmon fillets.
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Easy cleanup thanks to minimal ingredients and one cooking appliance.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
2 frozen salmon fillets (skin-on or skinless, 4 to 6 oz each)
½ tsp olive oil or avocado oil
½ tsp lemon juice
salt and pepper to taste
Directions
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Preheat the air fryer to 390°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes to ensure even cooking and a slightly crisp finish.
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Remove the frozen salmon fillets from the freezer. There is no need to thaw them beforehand.
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Using a paper towel, gently pat the top of the fillets to remove any visible ice crystals.
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Place the frozen salmon fillets in the air fryer basket. If the salmon has skin, position the fillets skin-side down.
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Cook the salmon for 5 minutes to allow it to thaw slightly.
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In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
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Open the air fryer and lightly brush the fillets with the prepared marinade.
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Return the basket to the air fryer and cook for an additional 7 to 10 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets.
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The salmon is ready when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (62°C). The exterior should be lightly golden while the inside is tender and flaky.
Servings and timing
Servings: 2
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes
Variations
Garlic lemon salmon
Add a small clove of minced garlic to the oil and lemon mixture for a deeper savory flavor.
Honey glaze
Mix a teaspoon of honey with the oil and lemon juice to create a lightly sweet glaze.
Spicy salmon
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, chili flakes, or smoked paprika for a bit of heat.
Herb salmon
Sprinkle dried herbs such as dill, parsley, or thyme over the salmon before the final cooking stage.
Teriyaki style
Brush the salmon with teriyaki sauce instead of the lemon oil mixture for an Asian-inspired flavor.
Storage/Reheating
Storage
Allow leftover salmon to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing
Cooked salmon can be frozen for up to 2 months when stored in a freezer-safe container.
Reheating in the air fryer
Reheat the salmon in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 3 to 4 minutes until warmed through.
Reheating in the microwave
Heat in short intervals of about 30 seconds to avoid drying out the fish.
FAQs
Can I cook salmon in the air fryer directly from frozen?
Yes, frozen salmon can be placed directly in the air fryer without thawing. The initial cooking stage helps defrost it before seasoning and finishing the cook.
Do I need to flip the salmon while cooking?
No, flipping is usually not necessary. Cooking the salmon skin-side down helps keep it intact and evenly cooked.
What temperature should salmon reach when fully cooked?
Salmon is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (62°C).
How do I prevent the salmon from drying out?
Avoid overcooking and use a light coating of oil or marinade to help keep the fish moist.
Can I use skinless salmon fillets?
Yes, this recipe works with both skinless and skin-on fillets.
What sides go well with air fryer salmon?
Popular options include roasted vegetables, rice, quinoa, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
Can I add seasoning before the first cooking step?
It is better to wait until after the initial thawing stage so the seasonings stick properly.
What if my salmon fillets are very thick?
Thicker fillets may require an extra 2 to 3 minutes of cooking time.
Can I use frozen seasoned salmon?
Yes, but you may want to reduce additional salt or seasoning depending on the product.
Is air fryer salmon healthy?
Yes, salmon is rich in protein and omega-3 fatty acids, and air frying requires only a small amount of oil.
Conclusion
Air fryer frozen salmon is a quick and reliable way to prepare a nutritious meal with minimal effort. By cooking the fillets directly from frozen, you save time without sacrificing flavor or texture. With just a simple marinade and a short cooking time, the result is tender, flaky salmon that works well for weeknight dinners or healthy meal prep.
