How to Cook Frozen Salmon in an Air Fryer

Introduction

Cooking salmon from frozen can be quick, convenient, and delicious—especially when using an air fryer. The air fryer locks in moisture while giving the salmon a perfectly cooked texture without thawing it first. This method is ideal for busy weeknights or when you forget to defrost your salmon in advance. With just a few simple ingredients, you can have a healthy, flavorful meal in under 20 minutes.

Ingredients

• 2 frozen salmon fillets (6 oz each)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
• ½ teaspoon paprika (optional)
• Lemon wedges, for serving
• Fresh herbs, such as dill or parsley, for garnish

Preparation Steps

Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3–5 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Salmon

Brush the frozen salmon fillets lightly with olive oil. Sprinkle with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika if using. There’s no need to thaw the salmon first.

Step 3: Air Fry the Salmon

Place the fillets in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 10–12 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets. Halfway through, check and rotate the fillets if needed for even cooking.

Step 4: Check for Doneness

The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). If needed, cook for an additional 1–2 minutes.

Step 5: Serve

Remove the salmon from the air fryer and garnish with fresh herbs and lemon wedges. Serve with steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

🐟 Cooking frozen salmon in an air fryer is fast, easy, and preserves the fish’s natural flavor and moisture. This method makes it simple to enjoy a nutritious, restaurant-quality meal anytime.