Can You Put Frozen Salmon in Air Fryer A Quick Guide

Yes, you can safely cook frozen salmon in an air fryer—it’s a fast, convenient method that delivers tender, flaky results without thawing. Simply season, place in the basket, and air fry at 390°F for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway for even cooking. Perfect for busy weeknights, this no-thaw technique locks in moisture and flavor with minimal effort.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, cook frozen salmon directly in air fryer—no thawing needed for quick meals.
• Preheat air fryer to 390°F (200°C) for even cooking and crispy skin.
• Season after patting dry to enhance flavor and prevent steaming.
• Cook 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway, for perfectly flaky salmon.
• Use oil spray to prevent sticking and improve texture without excess fat.
• Check internal temperature—145°F (63°C) ensures safe, moist results.

Can You Put Frozen Salmon in Air Fryer? A Quick Guide

Let’s be honest: we’ve all been there. You’re staring into the fridge, hoping for a miracle dinner idea, when you spot that forgotten pack of frozen salmon. Your stomach growls, your brain screams *“just cook it already!”*, and then—doubt creeps in. Wait… can I even put frozen salmon in an air fryer? If that’s the question keeping you up at night (or at least delaying your dinner), you’re not alone.

As someone who’s juggled busy workdays, picky eaters, and the eternal struggle to eat healthy, I’ve tested my fair share of kitchen hacks. And let me tell you: the air fryer is a game-changer. But when it comes to frozen salmon, it’s not just about convenience—it’s about getting that perfect flake, that rich flavor, and that crispy exterior without drying it out. So yes, you can cook frozen salmon in an air fryer. But there’s a right way and a not-so-right way to do it. And that’s exactly what we’re diving into today. Whether you’re a seasoned air fryer pro or just starting out, this guide will walk you through the dos, don’ts, and little tricks to turn that icy block of fish into a restaurant-quality meal—no thawing required.

Why the Air Fryer Is a Game-Changer for Frozen Salmon

Before we get into the how, let’s talk about the why. Why even consider using an air fryer for frozen salmon? The answer is simple: speed, convenience, and flavor. Unlike traditional ovens that take 20–30 minutes to preheat (and even longer to cook), air fryers use rapid hot air circulation to cook food from all sides. This means faster cooking times and a crispier texture—perfect for salmon, which can easily turn rubbery or dry if overcooked.

No Thawing? No Problem

One of the biggest wins? You don’t have to plan ahead. No more forgetting to defrost your fish the night before. With an air fryer, you can go straight from freezer to table in under 20 minutes. That’s huge for busy weeknights, last-minute guests, or those days when you just can’t be bothered with meal prep.

I remember one time, I had friends over for dinner, and I completely forgot to thaw the salmon. Panicked, I tossed the frozen fillets in the air fryer, crossed my fingers, and—surprise!—they came out juicy, flaky, and perfectly seasoned. My friends didn’t even know it was frozen. That’s the magic of the air fryer.

Healthier Cooking, Crispy Results

Air fryers require little to no oil, which means you’re getting a healthier version of pan-seared or deep-fried salmon. But here’s the kicker: it still gets that golden, slightly crispy skin (if you’ve got skin-on fillets) without the greasy mess. The hot air circulates evenly, so you’re not left with soggy spots or undercooked centers.

And let’s not forget the cleanup. No splattered oil, no scrubbing pans. Just pop the basket out, wipe it down, and you’re done. For someone who hates doing dishes (so, everyone?), this is a total win.

Perfect for Portion Control

Frozen salmon fillets are often individually wrapped, making them ideal for single servings. You can cook just one or two at a time without wasting energy or food. This is great for solo diners, couples, or families with different dietary preferences. Plus, since air fryers are compact, they’re perfect for small kitchens or dorm rooms.

How to Cook Frozen Salmon in Air Fryer: Step-by-Step

Now that you’re sold on the idea, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty. Cooking frozen salmon in an air fryer isn’t complicated, but there are a few key steps to get it right. Think of it like baking a cake: the ingredients matter, but the method makes all the difference.

1. Prep Your Air Fryer Basket

First things first: lightly coat the air fryer basket with cooking spray or a thin layer of oil (olive, avocado, or coconut oil work well). This prevents sticking, especially if your salmon has skin. If you’re using parchment paper liners, make sure they’re perforated or have holes cut in them—air circulation is key, and blocked airflow can lead to uneven cooking.

Pro tip: If you don’t have spray or oil, you can line the basket with foil (with holes poked in it), but avoid covering the entire bottom. You want the hot air to circulate freely.

2. Season the Salmon (Yes, While Frozen!)

You might think seasoning a frozen fillet is pointless, but trust me—it works. Sprinkle your favorite herbs, spices, and a pinch of salt and pepper right on top. I love a simple combo of garlic powder, paprika, lemon zest, and a drizzle of honey or maple syrup. The seasoning will adhere to the surface and infuse flavor as the fish cooks.

Don’t overdo it, though. Too much salt or wet ingredients (like lemon juice) can cause steam, which might make the salmon soggy. Save the lemon slices or herbs for after cooking, or place them on top during the last few minutes.

3. Arrange the Fillets Properly

Place the frozen salmon fillets in a single layer in the basket. Make sure they’re not touching or overlapping—this ensures even cooking. If you’re cooking multiple fillets, you might need to work in batches, depending on your air fryer size.

For skin-on fillets, place them skin-side down. This helps the skin crisp up while protecting the flesh from direct heat. If you’re using skinless fillets, no worries—just keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.

4. Set the Temperature and Time

Here’s where things get specific. For most air fryers, cook frozen salmon at 390°F (200°C) for 10–14 minutes, depending on thickness. Thicker fillets (1 inch or more) may need closer to 14 minutes, while thinner ones (½ inch) can be done in 10.

Halfway through, open the basket and flip the fillets. This helps both sides cook evenly and prevents the top from drying out. Use tongs or a spatula—be gentle to avoid breaking the delicate flesh.

5. Check for Doneness

The best way to tell if your salmon is done? Use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, gently press the fillet with a fork. It should flake easily and look opaque throughout, with no translucent or icy patches.

If it’s not quite there, pop it back in for 1–2 more minutes. Remember: salmon continues to cook slightly after you take it out, so it’s better to undercook than overcook.

Common Mistakes to Avoid (And How to Fix Them)

Even with the best intentions, things can go wrong. I’ve been there—overcooked, rubbery salmon, or worse, a fillet that’s still icy in the middle. Here are the most common pitfalls and how to avoid them.

Overcrowding the Basket

This is the #1 mistake. When you pack too many fillets into the air fryer, the hot air can’t circulate properly. The result? Uneven cooking, soggy spots, and longer cook times. Always leave a little space between each fillet. If you’re cooking for a crowd, do it in batches. Your taste buds will thank you.

Skipping the Flip

Flipping halfway through isn’t just a suggestion—it’s a necessity. Without it, one side will be overcooked while the other is still frozen. I’ve learned this the hard way. One time, I skipped the flip and ended up with a salmon fillet that was charred on top and still icy in the center. Not a good look (or taste).

Make flipping part of your routine. Set a timer for halfway, and don’t skip it—even if you’re busy doing other things.

Using Too Much Oil or Wet Seasonings

While a little oil helps prevent sticking, too much can cause splatter and steam the salmon instead of crisping it. The same goes for wet ingredients like lemon juice, marinades, or wet rubs. Save those for after cooking, or apply them during the last 2–3 minutes to avoid sogginess.

Stick to dry rubs, spices, and a light spray of oil. You’ll get crispier, more flavorful results.

Ignoring Thickness Differences

Not all frozen salmon fillets are the same size. Some are thick, some are thin, and some are irregularly shaped. If you’re cooking multiple fillets of different sizes, consider staggering the cooking times. Thinner fillets may need to come out a few minutes earlier, or you can place them on the outer edges of the basket (where heat is slightly less intense).

Alternatively, cut larger fillets into smaller, even pieces before cooking. This ensures uniform doneness.

Not Letting It Rest

Just like with grilled or baked salmon, letting your air-fried fillets rest for 2–3 minutes after cooking helps the juices redistribute. This prevents dry, stringy fish and gives you that melt-in-your-mouth texture. It’s a small step, but it makes a big difference.

Flavor Ideas and Customizations

Now that you’ve mastered the basics, let’s talk flavor. Frozen salmon is a blank canvas—it takes to seasonings and marinades beautifully. Here are some of my favorite ways to jazz it up.

Simple & Classic: Lemon Garlic

For a timeless combo, try this: sprinkle frozen fillets with garlic powder, salt, pepper, and a pinch of dried dill. Drizzle with a little olive oil and add lemon slices on top during the last 2 minutes of cooking. The result? Bright, fresh, and restaurant-worthy.

Serve with a side of roasted veggies or a simple green salad for a complete meal.

Asian-Inspired: Soy Ginger

Love takeout flavors? Mix together 1 tsp soy sauce, ½ tsp honey, ½ tsp grated ginger, and a splash of rice vinegar. Brush it on the fillets during the last 3 minutes of cooking. Top with sesame seeds and green onions for extra flair.

This pairs perfectly with steamed rice or stir-fried noodles.

Spicy Kick: Cajun or Chipotle

For heat lovers, a Cajun or chipotle seasoning blend works wonders. Sprinkle it on before cooking, or mix it with a little oil for a paste. If you want extra smokiness, add a pinch of smoked paprika.

Serve with a cool avocado crema (blend avocado, sour cream, lime juice, and garlic) to balance the spice.

Sweet & Savory: Maple Mustard

This one’s a crowd-pleaser. Mix 1 tbsp maple syrup, 1 tsp Dijon mustard, and a pinch of garlic powder. Brush it on during the last 3 minutes. The result? A slightly sweet, tangy glaze that caramelizes beautifully.

Great with roasted sweet potatoes or a quinoa pilaf.

Herbaceous: Dill & Capers

For a Scandinavian twist, top cooked salmon with a dollop of Greek yogurt, chopped fresh dill, capers, and a squeeze of lemon. It’s light, tangy, and perfect for summer dinners.

Pro tip: Add the yogurt mixture after cooking to keep it cool and creamy.

Data Table: Cooking Times & Temperatures

To make things even easier, here’s a quick-reference table for cooking frozen salmon in an air fryer. Keep in mind that air fryer models vary, so these are general guidelines. Always check for doneness with a thermometer.

Fillet Thickness	Temperature	Cook Time (Frozen)	Internal Temp (Done)	Notes
½ inch (1.25 cm)	390°F (200°C)	10 minutes	145°F (63°C)	Flip halfway. Great for thinner fillets or pre-cut portions.
¾ inch (2 cm)	390°F (200°C)	12 minutes	145°F (63°C)	Most common size. Ensure even spacing in basket.
1 inch (2.5 cm)	390°F (200°C)	14 minutes	145°F (63°C)	May need extra 1–2 minutes. Check center for doneness.
Skin-on fillets	390°F (200°C)	12–14 minutes	145°F (63°C)	Place skin-side down. Crisps skin without drying flesh.
Skinless fillets	390°F (200°C)	10–12 minutes	145°F (63°C)	Watch closely—no skin to protect flesh from direct heat.

Note: If your air fryer has a “frozen” setting, use it! Some models (like Philips or Ninja) have specific presets for frozen proteins, which adjust temperature and time automatically.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

So, can you put frozen salmon in an air fryer? Absolutely. And not just “can you”—you should. It’s faster than thawing and baking, healthier than pan-frying, and delivers consistently delicious results. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a family, this method saves time, reduces waste, and turns a humble frozen fillet into a flavorful, nutritious meal.

I’ve used this trick for everything from quick weeknight dinners to fancy weekend brunches. And the best part? It works with other frozen proteins too—chicken breasts, shrimp, even veggie patties. Once you get the hang of it, you’ll wonder how you ever cooked without your air fryer.

Just remember the key takeaways: prep the basket, season generously (but not too wet), flip halfway, and check for doneness. Avoid overcrowding, don’t skip the flip, and let it rest before serving. With these tips, you’ll never have to stress about dinner again.

So go ahead—grab that frozen salmon, fire up your air fryer, and enjoy a meal that’s as easy as it is delicious. Your future self (and your taste buds) will thank you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you put frozen salmon in air fryer without thawing?

Yes, you can cook frozen salmon in an air fryer without thawing it first. Just add 2-3 minutes to the cooking time to ensure it heats through evenly.

What’s the best way to cook frozen salmon in an air fryer?

Pat the frozen salmon dry, season it, and lightly coat with oil. Air fry at 390°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway for even cooking.

Do you need to adjust cooking time for frozen salmon in an air fryer?

Yes, frozen salmon typically requires 10-12 minutes at 390°F (200°C), while thawed salmon cooks in 8-10 minutes. Always check for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Can you put frozen salmon in air fryer with seasoning?

Absolutely! Seasoning frozen salmon before air frying enhances flavor. Use salt, pepper, lemon, or your favorite herbs, and add a light oil spray for crispiness.

Is air-fried frozen salmon as good as thawed salmon?

When done right, air-fried frozen salmon retains moisture and flavor, closely matching thawed results. Just ensure proper timing and avoid overcrowding the basket.

Can you cook frozen salmon fillets and other foods together in an air fryer?

It’s best to cook frozen salmon separately to avoid uneven cooking. If pairing, choose similar-sized items and monitor temperatures to prevent undercooking.