How to Cook Frozen Salmon in Air Fryer

Learn how to cook frozen salmon in the air fryer in under 15 minutes. Frozen salmon fillets are air-fried then brushed with an olive oil and dill blend then finish cooking until the salmon flakes easily. 

Our air fryer frozen salmon stands alone or can be transformed into tacos, wraps, or salads. It is a versatile recipe that is packed with flavor.

Salmon provides Omega-3 fatty acids and essential fatty acids that we can only obtain through foods we eat.

For more seafood air fryer recipes, check out our Air Fry Shrimp, Air Fryer Coconut Shrimp and Air Fry Frozen Fish Fillets.

Ingredients

• 1 pound frozen salmon ✅ 
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon dill ✅ 
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon pepper

Gluten-Free Guide: If you’re new to eating gluten-free we understand it’s overwhelming trying to figure out which foods may contain gluten and which ones don’t. All of our gluten-free recipes marked with this symbol ✅ represent foods that need to be checked for gluten.

How To Air Fry Frozen Salmon

Place frozen salmon fillets onto the air fryer tray. Preheat the air fryer to 390°F. Air fry for 5 minutes.

Blend the spices

While the salmon is baking blend the olive oil, dill, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.

Brush the salmon with spices and finish baking

Carefully remove the salmon from the air fryer. Using a pastry brush to brush the olive oil blend onto the salmon fillet.

Return to the air fryer and fry for an additional 7-9 minutes or until the fish flakes easily.

Substitutions

• Season with simply salt and pepper
• Use butter rather than olive oil
• Use fresh salmon, cooking for about 8 minutes
• Try a white fish instead of salmon

Tips and Tricks

Thawing: While the recipe you mentioned involves cooking salmon directly from frozen, if you have the time, it’s generally recommended to thaw the salmon fillets in the refrigerator for a few hours before air frying. Thawing can help ensure more even and consistent cooking.

Preheating: Preheating the air fryer is crucial for achieving the desired crispiness and cooking efficiency. Allow your air fryer to preheat for a few minutes before adding the salmon fillets.

Cooking Time and Temperature: Cooking times can vary based on the thickness of the salmon fillets and the specific air fryer model. Adjust the cooking time and temperature as needed. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption.

Oil or Cooking Spray: If you’re concerned about the salmon sticking to the air fryer basket, you can lightly brush the basket with oil or use a non-stick cooking spray before placing the fillets. This can help prevent the salmon from sticking and ensure easy removal.

Seasoning Variations: While the olive oil and dill blend is a great option, feel free to experiment with other seasonings and marinades. Lemon pepper, garlic herb, Cajun, or teriyaki marinades are just a few ideas to consider.

Use a Thermometer: A kitchen thermometer is a valuable tool to accurately monitor the internal temperature of the salmon. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the fillet to ensure it’s cooked to the proper temperature.

Air Fryer Liners: Consider using air fryer liners or parchment paper designed for air fryers. These can make cleanup easier and prevent any sticking.

Remember that practice makes perfect, and it might take a few tries to find the perfect cooking time and technique that works for your specific air fryer and preferences.

Frequently Asked Questions

Storage Instructions

Cooked Salmon:

• Cooling: Allow the cooked salmon to cool slightly before storing it. You can let it sit at room temperature for about 20-30 minutes.
• Packaging: Once the salmon has cooled a bit, place it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. If you’re using a container, make sure it’s sized appropriately to prevent too much extra space, which can lead to moisture buildup.
• Divide and Conquer: If you have a large amount of cooked salmon, consider dividing it into smaller portions before storing. This makes it easier to reheat only what you need and reduces the risk of repeated exposure to air.
• Labeling: If you’re storing multiple containers or portions, label them with the date you cooked the salmon. This will help you keep track of how long it has been stored.
• Refrigeration: Place the sealed container or wrapped salmon in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Reheating Cooked Salmon:

When you’re ready to enjoy your leftover cooked salmon, you can reheat it using these methods:

• Oven: Preheat your oven to around 325°F (163°C). Place the salmon in an oven-safe dish and cover it with foil to prevent drying. Reheat for about 10-15 minutes or until the salmon is warmed through.
• Microwave: Place the salmon on a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a microwave-safe lid or microwave-safe plastic wrap. Use a low-power setting or the defrost function to gently warm the salmon. Be careful not to overheat, as this can lead to dryness.
• Stovetop: You can also reheat salmon gently on the stovetop. Use a non-stick skillet and add a splash of water, broth, or lemon juice to prevent sticking. Heat the salmon on low to medium-low heat until warmed through.

Note: Regardless of the method you choose, be cautious not to overheat the salmon, as it can become dry and lose its flavor and tenderness.

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• Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu
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More Salmon Recipes

• Salmon Buddha Bowl
• Gluten Free Salmon Cakes
• Salmon Patties in Air Fryer
• Canned Salmon Pasta Recipe