How Long to Cook Salmon in Air Fryer?

If you’ve ever wondered how long to cook salmon in air fryer, you’re not alone. This is one of the most common questions home cooks have, and getting the timing right is the difference between perfectly flaky, restaurant-quality salmon and dry, overcooked fish.

The good news? Once you understand the basic principles of air fryer salmon cooking time, you’ll be able to cook perfect salmon every single time—whether it’s fresh or frozen, thick or thin, skin-on or skinless.

Table of Contents

Quick Answer: Air Fryer Salmon Cook Time

For fresh salmon at 400°F:

Thin fillets (½-¾ inch): 6-7 minutes
Medium fillets (1 inch): 8-9 minutes
Thick fillets (1½ inches): 10-11 minutes

For frozen salmon at 400°F:

Add 3-5 minutes to fresh cooking times, OR
Thaw at 360°F for 7 minutes, then cook as fresh

Internal temperature: 145°F (fully cooked) or 135-140°F (medium)

Now, let’s dive deeper into exactly how long does salmon take in air fryer and all the factors that affect cooking time.

Factors That Affect Air Fryer Salmon Cook Time

Understanding these variables will help you determine the perfect air fryer salmon time for your specific situation:

1. Thickness of the Fillet

This is the most important factor in determining how long to air fry salmon. The thicker the fillet, the longer it needs to cook.

Thickness Guide:

½ inch thick: 6-7 minutes at 400°F
¾ inch thick: 7-8 minutes at 400°F
1 inch thick: 8-9 minutes at 400°F
1¼ inch thick: 9-10 minutes at 400°F
1½ inch thick: 10-11 minutes at 400°F

Pro Tip: Use a ruler to measure your salmon fillet at its thickest point for the most accurate cook time.

2. Starting Temperature (Fresh vs. Frozen)

Fresh or thawed salmon cooks faster than frozen salmon in air fryer. Here’s the breakdown:

Fresh/Thawed Salmon:

Standard cook times apply (6-11 minutes at 400°F)
Always pat dry before cooking

Frozen Salmon (Method 1 – Direct Cook):

Cook at 400°F
Add 3-5 minutes to fresh cooking times
Total time: 9-16 minutes depending on thickness

Frozen Salmon (Method 2 – Two-Step):

Step 1: Thaw at 360°F for 7 minutes
Step 2: Cook at 400°F for standard fresh times (6-11 minutes)
Total time: 13-18 minutes

3. Desired Doneness

How long should you cook salmon in air fryer also depends on how you like your salmon cooked:

Fully Cooked (145°F):

USDA recommended temperature
Opaque throughout
Flakes easily with a fork
Use full recommended cook times

Medium (135-140°F):

Slightly translucent in center
More moist and buttery
Reduce cook time by 1-2 minutes
Let rest 3-5 minutes (temperature continues rising)

Medium-Rare (125-130°F):

Translucent center
Very moist
Reduce cook time by 2-3 minutes
Only for sushi-grade salmon

Important: The salmon will continue cooking after removal due to carryover heat. Remove it 5-10 degrees before your target temperature.

4. Air Fryer Model and Type

Different air fryers can vary in actual cooking time:

Basket-Style Air Fryers:

Most common type
Standard cook times apply
Examples: Ninja, Cosori, Philips

Oven-Style Air Fryers:

May cook 1-2 minutes faster
Better air circulation
Check at minimum time

Toaster Oven Air Fryers:

May take slightly longer
Less powerful convection
Add 1-2 minutes if needed

Pro Tip: The first time you make salmon in your specific air fryer, check it 2 minutes early to gauge your appliance’s performance.

5. Salmon Cut and Form

How long to cook salmon fillets in air fryer varies by cut:

Fillets (Standard):

6-11 minutes at 400°F
Most common preparation
Skin-on or skinless both work

Salmon Bites (1-inch cubes):

5-8 minutes at 390-400°F
Flip halfway through
Perfect for bowls and salads

Whole Side of Salmon:

12-15 minutes at 375°F
May need to cook in batches
Check thickest part for doneness

Salmon Steaks:

10-12 minutes at 400°F
Thicker cut
Bone helps retain moisture

Complete Temperature and Time Chart

Here’s your go-to guide for air fryer salmon temperature and time:

Fresh Salmon at Different Temperatures

At 360°F (Lower Temperature):

Thin (½-¾ inch): 8-9 minutes
Medium (1 inch): 10-12 minutes
Thick (1½ inch): 13-15 minutes
Best for: Delicate glazes that might burn

At 375°F (Medium Temperature):

Thin (½-¾ inch): 7-8 minutes
Medium (1 inch): 9-10 minutes
Thick (1½ inch): 11-13 minutes
Best for: Even cooking, less risk of overcooking

At 390-400°F (High Temperature – RECOMMENDED):

Thin (½-¾ inch): 6-7 minutes
Medium (1 inch): 8-9 minutes
Thick (1½ inch): 10-11 minutes
Best for: Crispy exterior, restaurant-quality results

At 425°F (Very High Temperature):

Thin (½-¾ inch): 5-6 minutes
Medium (1 inch): 7-8 minutes
Thick (1½ inch): 9-10 minutes
Best for: Maximum crispy exterior, watch carefully

Frozen Salmon Cook Times

At 400°F (Direct from Frozen):

Thin fillets: 9-11 minutes
Medium fillets: 11-14 minutes
Thick fillets: 13-16 minutes

Two-Step Method:

Thaw: 7 minutes at 360°F
Cook: Standard fresh times at 400°F

Step-by-Step Timing Guide

How to Cook Fresh Salmon in Air Fryer (Timing Breakdown)

Prep Time: 3-5 minutes

Pat salmon dry with paper towels (1 minute)
Season or apply marinade (2 minutes)
Preheat air fryer to 400°F (2-3 minutes)

Cook Time: 6-11 minutes

Place salmon in basket, skin-side down (30 seconds)
Set timer based on thickness (see chart above)
Check at minimum time (30 seconds)

Rest Time: 3-5 minutes

Remove from air fryer
Let rest on plate
Temperature rises 5-10 degrees
Total active time: 12-21 minutes

How to Cook Frozen Salmon in Air Fryer (Timing Breakdown)

Method 1: Direct Cook

No thawing needed
Total time: 9-16 minutes at 400°F
Check at 9 minutes, add time as needed

Method 2: Two-Step (Recommended)

Thaw phase: 7 minutes at 360°F
Quick check: Salmon should be defrosted
Cook phase: 6-11 minutes at 400°F (based on thickness)
Rest: 3-5 minutes
Total time: 16-23 minutes

Pro Tip: The two-step method gives more consistent results than cooking directly from frozen.

Signs Your Salmon is Done (Beyond Time)

While knowing how many minutes to cook salmon in air fryer is important, visual and temperature cues are equally crucial:

Visual Cues:

✅ Opaque throughout (for fully cooked) ✅ Flakes easily when pressed with a fork ✅ Light golden color on top (if seasoned) ✅ Slightly translucent in center (for medium doneness) ✅ White protein (albumin) may appear on surface

Temperature Test:

Best method: Use an instant-read thermometer

Insert into thickest part
Don’t touch bone (if present)
Target: 145°F (fully cooked) or 135°F (medium)

Texture Test:

Press gently with a fork
Should separate into flakes
Center should be slightly firm
Edges may be slightly crispy

Common Timing Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Mistake 1: Not Preheating the Air Fryer

Problem: Uneven cooking, soggy exterior Solution: Always preheat for 3-5 minutes Time Impact: Can add 2-3 minutes to cook time if skipped

Mistake 2: Overcrowding the Basket

Problem: Longer cook time, steaming instead of crisping Solution: Leave space between fillets Time Impact: Can add 3-5 minutes if overcrowded

Mistake 3: Not Accounting for Carryover Cooking

Problem: Overcooked, dry salmon Solution: Remove 5-10 degrees before target temp Time Impact: Salmon continues cooking 3-5 minutes after removal

Mistake 4: Opening Air Fryer Too Often

Problem: Heat loss, longer cook time Solution: Check only once at minimum time Time Impact: Each opening adds 30-60 seconds

Mistake 5: Using Wrong Temperature

Problem: Incorrect cooking time estimates Solution: Stick to 390-400°F for best results Time Impact: Lower temps can add 2-4 minutes

Quick Reference: When to Check Your Salmon

To avoid overcooking, use this air fryer salmon timing check schedule:

For 6-7 minute cook time:

Check at: 5 minutes

For 8-9 minute cook time:

Check at: 7 minutes

For 10-11 minute cook time:

Check at: 8 minutes

For frozen salmon (direct cook):

First check: 9 minutes
Second check: Every 2 minutes after

Pro Tip: It’s better to check early and add time than to overcook. Overcooked salmon cannot be salvaged.

Different Recipe Times and Temperatures

While the standard cook time for salmon in air fryer is consistent, different recipes may vary slightly:

Classic Garlic & Herb Salmon

Temperature: 400°F
Time: 7-9 minutes
Best for: 1-inch fillets
Why: Simple seasoning, standard method

Honey Dijon Glazed Salmon

Temperature: 400°F
Time: 6-11 minutes
Note: Watch last 2 minutes (glaze can burn)
Tip: Brush glaze halfway through

Asian-Style Salmon Bites

Temperature: 390°F (200°C)
Time: 5-8 minutes
Note: Flip at 3-4 minutes
Tip: Brush marinade while flipping

Cajun Blackened Salmon

Temperature: 400°F
Time: 8 minutes
Note: No flipping needed
Tip: Use cornstarch in rub for extra crisp

Teriyaki Salmon

Temperature: 390-400°F
Time: 8-10 minutes
Note: Add glaze in last 2 minutes
Tip: Lower temp prevents burning

For more detailed recipes and variations, check out these comprehensive air fryer salmon recipes.

Adjusting Cook Time for Different Scenarios

Cooking Multiple Fillets

Same size fillets:

Cook time remains the same
Don’t overcrowd (leave 1 inch between)

Different sizes:

Calculate time for thickest piece
Remove thinner pieces early
Check each piece individually

Skin-On vs. Skinless

Skin-On:

Standard cook times apply
Place skin-side down
Skin protects from overcooking
May add 30 seconds for extra crispy skin

Skinless:

Same cook times
Slightly higher risk of drying
Watch more carefully
Consider reducing by 30 seconds

Marinated vs. Dry Rub

Heavily Marinated:

Pat off excess marinade
May cook 1 minute faster
Watch for burning

Dry Rub:

Standard cook times
No timing adjustment needed

Cold vs. Room Temperature Salmon

Straight from Fridge:

Standard cook times work
Most common method

Room Temperature (30 min out):

Reduce cook time by 1 minute
More even cooking
Faster center cooking

Troubleshooting Cook Time Issues

“My salmon is cooking too fast on top”

Solutions:

Lower temperature to 375°F
Add 2-3 minutes to cook time
Brush with oil to prevent burning
Cover top with foil last 2 minutes

“My salmon is cooking too slowly”

Solutions:

Increase temperature to 425°F
Reduce cook time by 1-2 minutes
Ensure air fryer is preheated
Check that basket isn’t overcrowded

“My salmon is dry”

Solutions:

Reduce cook time by 1-2 minutes
Remove at 135°F instead of 145°F
Let rest 5 minutes before serving
Brush with butter/oil before cooking

“My salmon is undercooked in the middle”

Solutions:

Add 1-2 minutes to cook time
Use lower temperature (375°F) for thicker cuts
Ensure fillet is evenly thick
Consider butterflying very thick pieces

Best Practices for Consistent Timing

1. Invest in a Good Thermometer

Why: Most accurate way to determine doneness Type: Instant-read digital thermometer Cost: $15-30 Result: Perfect salmon every time

2. Know Your Air Fryer

First time: Check 2 minutes early Keep notes: Record actual times for your model Pattern: You’ll quickly learn your air fryer’s quirks

3. Choose Even Fillets

Look for: Uniform thickness Avoid: Tapered tail pieces (or cut them off) Result: More predictable cooking time

4. Pat Completely Dry

Why: Moisture affects cook time and crispiness How: Press firmly with paper towels Extra step: Let air dry 5 minutes after patting

5. Don’t Skip Preheating

Time: 3-5 minutes Temperature: Set to cooking temperature Result: Reduces overall cook time variability

Time-Saving Tips for Busy Weeknights

Quick Prep Strategy (Under 15 Minutes Total)

Minute 0-3: Preheat air fryer, prep salmon
Minute 3-4: Season and place in basket
Minute 4-12: Cook (8 minutes for 1-inch fillet)
Minute 12-15: Rest while prepping sides
Total: 15 minutes start to finish

Meal Prep Timing

Batch cook strategy:

Cook 4-6 fillets at once
Total time: Same as cooking 1-2
Cool and refrigerate
Reheat: 3-5 minutes at 350°F

Time saved: 30-40 minutes during the week

Air Fryer Salmon Timing by Cuisine Style

American Classic (Lemon Butter)

Temp: 400°F
Time: 8-10 minutes
Total time with prep: 13-15 minutes

Asian-Inspired (Teriyaki/Soy)

Temp: 390°F
Time: 8-10 minutes
Total time with prep: 20-25 minutes (includes marinating)

Mediterranean (Herb & Garlic)

Temp: 400°F
Time: 7-9 minutes
Total time with prep: 12-14 minutes

Cajun/Blackened

Temp: 400°F
Time: 8 minutes
Total time with prep: 11-13 minutes

Maple Glazed

Temp: 375-390°F (lower to prevent burning)
Time: 9-11 minutes
Total time with prep: 14-16 minutes

Frequently Asked Questions About Timing

How long to cook 1 inch salmon in air fryer?

8-9 minutes at 400°F is the sweet spot for 1-inch thick salmon fillets. Check at 7 minutes and add time if needed.

How long does it take to cook salmon in the air fryer at 400?

6-11 minutes depending on thickness:

½-¾ inch: 6-7 minutes
1 inch: 8-9 minutes
1½ inch: 10-11 minutes

Can you overcook salmon in an air fryer?

Yes! Salmon can dry out quickly. Always use a thermometer and remove at 135-145°F. Overcooked salmon becomes tough and flaky.

How long to cook frozen salmon in air fryer?

Two options:

Direct: 9-16 minutes at 400°F (add 3-5 min to fresh times)
Two-step: 7 min at 360°F to thaw, then 6-11 min at 400°F

What temperature should salmon be cooked to in air fryer?

Internal temperature: 145°F for fully cooked (USDA), or 135-140°F for medium doneness

Do I need to flip salmon in the air fryer?

No! The circulating air cooks evenly. Flipping is not necessary and can break delicate fish.

How do I know when my salmon is done?

Use an instant-read thermometer (most accurate) or check if it flakes easily with a fork and is opaque throughout.

Why is my air fryer salmon cooking unevenly?

Common causes:

Fillets different thicknesses
Overcrowded basket
Not preheated
Air fryer basket dirty/clogged

Can I cook salmon straight from the freezer?

Yes! Either cook directly (add 3-5 minutes) or thaw first at 360°F for 7 minutes, then cook normally.

How long to air fry salmon at 375?

Add 1-3 minutes to standard times:

Thin: 7-8 minutes
Medium: 9-10 minutes
Thick: 11-13 minutes

The Science Behind Air Fryer Salmon Timing

Understanding why timing matters helps you make better decisions:

How Air Fryers Cook

Convection heat: Rapid air circulation at 400°F
Maillard reaction: Browns exterior in 6-8 minutes
Even cooking: Heat surrounds fish from all sides
Moisture retention: Quick cooking locks in juices

Why Timing is Critical

Too Short:

Undercooked center
Food safety concerns
Raw texture

Too Long:

Dry, tough texture
Lost moisture
Overcooked exterior

Just Right:

Crispy exterior
Moist, flaky interior
Perfect texture
Safe to eat

Temperature Zones in Salmon

Exterior (400°F exposure):

Crisps in first 3-4 minutes
Maillard reaction occurs
Light browning

Interior (gradually heats):

Reaches 145°F by minute 8-9
Proteins denature
Flaky texture develops

Why Thick Fillets Take Longer:

Heat takes time to penetrate
Center is furthest from heat source
Additional 1 minute per ¼ inch thickness

Advanced Timing Techniques

The Touch Test Method

For experienced cooks who don’t want to use a thermometer:

Rare (125°F): Feels soft, like touching your cheek Medium (135°F): Slight resistance, like touching your chin Well Done (145°F): Firm, like touching your forehead

Timing adjustment: Check at minimum time, use touch to decide

The Partial Cook Method

For meal prep or parties:

Cook to 130°F (5-6 minutes at 400°F)
Cool and refrigerate
Finish cooking later (3-4 minutes at 400°F)
Benefit: Fresher taste, easier timing control

The Reverse Sear Method

For very thick fillets (2+ inches):

Cook at 275°F for 12-15 minutes
Increase to 450°F for 2-3 minutes
Perfect crust, evenly cooked
Total time: 14-18 minutes

Seasonal Timing Considerations

Summer (Thinner Fillets Often Available)

Reduce time by 1 minute
Watch more carefully
Perfect for quick meals

Winter (Frozen Salmon More Common)

Use two-step thawing method
Add 3-5 minutes total time
Plan for 15-20 minutes total

Holiday Entertaining

Cook in batches
Keep warm in oven at 200°F
First batch: Standard time
Subsequent batches: Reduce by 1 minute (preheated basket)

Mastering Air Fryer Salmon Timing

Understanding how long to cook salmon in air fryer is simpler than you might think. The key is remembering these essential points:

🎯 Core Timing Rules:

400°F is your friend – Best temperature for crispy, moist results
Thickness matters most – Add/subtract minutes based on ½-inch increments
8-9 minutes for 1-inch – This is your baseline timing
Use a thermometer – Most reliable method for perfect doneness
Remove at 135-140°F – Let carryover cooking finish the job

📊 Quick Reference:

Thin (½-¾”): 6-7 minutes
Medium (1″): 8-9 minutes
Thick (1½”): 10-11 minutes
Frozen: Add 3-5 minutes OR thaw first

✅ Success Checklist:

The beauty of air fryer salmon cook time is its consistency. Once you’ve cooked salmon a few times in your specific air fryer, you’ll develop an intuitive sense of timing. But until then, this guide gives you the exact times and temperatures you need for perfect results every single time.

Remember: When in doubt, check early. You can always add more time, but you can’t undo overcooked salmon. Start with the minimum time for your fillet thickness, check for doneness, and adjust from there.

With these timing guidelines, you’re now equipped to cook perfect air fryer salmon whether you’re making a quick weeknight dinner, meal prepping for the week, or serving guests. The days of guessing and overcooking are behind you!

For more delicious ways to prepare your perfectly-timed salmon, explore these air fryer salmon recipes to discover new flavors and techniques.