Frozen Salmon in Air Fryer – Easy, Delicious, and Perfect Every Time!

There’s nothing quite like a perfectly cooked piece of salmon—crispy on the outside, tender and flaky on the inside. But what if I told you that you could take frozen salmon straight from the freezer and cook it in your air fryer with no thawing required? Yep, it’s possible! This frozen salmon in air fryer recipe is a total game-changer for busy nights when you need a quick, healthy, and flavorful meal in under 15 minutes.

Whether you forgot to defrost your salmon or just want a fuss-free cooking method, the air fryer delivers beautifully cooked salmon every time. So let’s dive in and make this effortless dish that will quickly become a weeknight favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Frozen Salmon in Air Fryer Recipe

• No need to thaw – Saves time and makes meal prep stress-free.
• Quick & easy – Ready in under 15 minutes with minimal effort.
• Healthy and nutritious – Salmon is packed with omega-3s, protein, and essential vitamins.
• Crispy and flavorful – The air fryer gives you that perfect sear without drying out the fish.
• Versatile – Use your favorite seasonings or sauces to customize it your way.

What Does Frozen Air Fryer Salmon Taste Like?

You might be wondering, “Can frozen salmon really turn out as good as fresh?” The answer is YES! Cooking salmon from frozen in the air fryer gives you a crispy, lightly caramelized exterior while keeping the inside juicy, flaky, and tender. It’s never dry or rubbery—just perfectly cooked salmon in every bite.

Ingredients for Air Fryer Frozen Salmon

You only need a few simple ingredients to make this flavorful dish:

• 2 frozen salmon fillets (skin-on or skinless)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (or melted butter)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon lemon zest (optional, but adds great flavor!)
• Lemon wedges & fresh parsley for serving

Optional Flavor Variations

Want to switch it up? Try these variations:

• Garlic Herb Butter – Swap olive oil for melted butter and add fresh minced garlic.
• Asian-Inspired – Brush with soy sauce and sprinkle with sesame seeds.
• Cajun Style – Use Cajun seasoning for a spicy kick.
• Honey Mustard Glaze – Drizzle with a mix of honey and Dijon mustard.

Tools You’ll Need

• Air fryer (any brand will work, but a basket-style air fryer is best)
• Pastry brush (for coating salmon with oil)
• Tongs (to easily flip the salmon)
• Instant-read thermometer (to ensure perfect doneness)

How to Cook Frozen Salmon in Air Fryer

1. Preheat the Air Fryer
   • Set your air fryer to 390°F (200°C) and let it preheat for about 3-5 minutes.
2. Prepare the Salmon
   • Lightly rinse the frozen salmon fillets under cold water to remove any excess ice.
   • Pat them dry with a paper towel.
   • Brush both sides with olive oil or melted butter.
3. Season the Salmon
   • Mix the garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl.
   • Sprinkle the seasoning evenly over both fillets.
4. Cook the Salmon
   • Place the fillets skin-side down in the air fryer basket.
   • Air fry for 7 minutes, then carefully flip and cook for another 5-7 minutes.
5. Check for Doneness
   • The salmon is ready when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) in the thickest part.
   • If needed, cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
6. Serve and Enjoy!
   • Let the salmon rest for a minute before serving.
   • Squeeze fresh lemon juice on top and garnish with parsley for extra flavor.

What to Serve with Air Fryer Salmon

This frozen salmon in air fryer recipe pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Here are some ideas:

• Roasted vegetables – Air fryer asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or broccoli.
• Rice or quinoa – A fluffy bed of grains makes a hearty meal.
• Mashed or roasted potatoes – Adds a comforting touch.
• Simple side salad – A crisp green salad with vinaigrette balances the meal.
• Garlic butter pasta – Perfect for a restaurant-style dinner at home.

Looking for more delicious recipes to complete your meal? Try these:

• Chicken Crust Caesar Salad Pizza – A fun and protein-packed twist on classic pizza.
• Baked Chicken Cutlet Recipe – Crispy, juicy, and perfect for a side dish.
• Pastina Soup Recipe – A cozy and comforting soup that pairs wonderfully with salmon.

Tips for the Best Frozen Salmon in Air Fryer

• No need to thaw – Cooking straight from frozen helps retain moisture.
• Use oil or butter – This prevents the fish from drying out.
• Don’t overcrowd the basket – Cook in a single layer for even crispiness.
• Check the temperature – An instant-read thermometer ensures perfect doneness.
• Add sauce after cooking – If using teriyaki or honey glaze, brush it on at the end to avoid burning.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

Storing:

• Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Reheating:

• Air fryer – Heat at 350°F (175°C) for 3-4 minutes until warm.
• Microwave – Use a lower power setting and heat in 30-second intervals.
• Oven – Reheat at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I cook frozen salmon in an air fryer without oil?

Yes! While oil helps prevent dryness, you can skip it if you prefer a lower-fat option.

How do I prevent my salmon from sticking to the air fryer basket?

Lightly spray the basket with cooking spray or use parchment paper designed for air fryers.

Can I use different seasonings?

Absolutely! Try Cajun, lemon pepper, or even a simple salt and pepper rub.

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

It typically takes 12-14 minutes at 390°F (200°C), but cooking time may vary depending on thickness.

Can I cook salmon with the skin on?

Yes! Cooking skin-on salmon in the air fryer helps keep it moist, and you can easily remove the skin after cooking if desired.

Final Thoughts on Frozen Salmon in Air Fryer

Cooking frozen salmon in the air fryer is a total lifesaver for busy nights. It’s fast, easy, and gives you perfectly cooked, flaky salmon every single time. No need to stress about defrosting—just season, air fry, and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal in minutes!

If you tried this recipe, I’d love to hear about it! Leave a comment below, share your photos on Pinterest, and don’t forget to check out my other air fryer recipes for more easy meal ideas!