Discover how to make perfectly cooked Air Fryer Frozen Salmon that’s juicy, flaky, and ready in minutes. A healthy and easy seafood option for any meal!

Perfectly cooked Air Fryer Frozen Salmon fillets with crispy edges.
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Air fryer frozen salmon is a quick, healthy, and delicious meal option perfect for busy days. There’s no need to thaw the fish beforehand—simply season it and let the air fryer do the work. The result is perfectly cooked salmon with a crispy exterior and juicy, flaky interior.

Packed with protein and omega-3s, this dish pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad. Ideal for weeknight dinners or meal prep, air fryer frozen salmon proves that healthy eating can be both effortless and flavorful.

If you love delicious salmon recipes or a quick fish dinner, don’t miss my other Air Fryer Fish Recipes like AIR FRYER SWORDFISH, AIR FRYER CATFISH NUGGETS, GORTONS FISH FILLETS IN AIR FRYER, and AIR FRYER BLACKENED FISH TACOS!

This is the best air fryer salmon recipe! And it’s so good!

Delicious air fryer frozen salmon fillets with crispy texture.

Why You Will Love This Recipe!

  • No thawing needed, saving you time and effort. From freezer to air fryer!
  • Quick and easy meal ready in under 20 minutes.
  • Crispy exterior with tender, flaky salmon inside.
  • Healthy and packed with protein and omega-3s.
  • Minimal preparation for a hassle-free cooking experience.
  • Versatile; pairs well with various sides and sauces.
  • Perfect for busy weeknight dinners or meal prep.

Ingredients Needed

Ingredients you will need for making frozen salmon in the air fryer, ingredients placed on kitchen table.
  • Frozen salmon fillets: Pre-portioned, convenient, and ready for cooking.
  • Dijon mustard: Adds tangy flavor and creamy texture.
  • Maple syrup: Sweetens and balances the mustard’s tanginess.
  • Minced garlic: Provides savory depth and aromatic flavor.
  • Black pepper: Enhances seasoning with mild heat and spice.
  • Kosher salt: Brings out the natural flavors of salmon.
  • Serve with fresh parsley, or fresh herbs.

Recipe Variations

  • Lemon Garlic Herb: Combine lemon zest, minced garlic, and dried thyme for a fresh, aromatic flavor.
  • Cajun Spices: Mix paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder for a spicy kick.
  • Honey Soy Glaze: Brush with a mixture of honey, soy sauce, and a touch of ginger for a sweet and savory glaze.
  • Dill and Mustard: Combine Dijon mustard with fresh dill for a tangy and herbaceous coating.
  • BBQ Seasoning: Use your favorite BBQ rub for a smoky, bold flavor on the salmon.
  • Blackened Spice: Coat the fillets with a blackened seasoning mix for a flavorful, slightly crispy exterior.
  • Maple Dijon Glaze: Mix maple syrup with Dijon mustard for a sweet and tangy sauce that complements the richness of the salmon.

How To Make Air Fryer Frozen Salmon

Place frozen salmon into the air fryer basket.

Step 1: Preheat your air fryer to 390 degrees F for 3-5 minutes so that it’s already hot when you add the salmon.

Step 2: Place the frozen salmon fillets in a single layer in the air fryer basket, salmon skin side down, leaving some space between each fillet for even cooking. Lightly brush the salmon fillets with olive oil on both sides to prevent sticking and enhance flavor. Season the salmon with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences. Set cook time for 7 minutes.

Flip salmon fillets and brush sauce evenly on top.

Step 3: The sauce is optional, but I definitely recommend making it! Add the Dijon mustard, maple syrup, minced garlic, salt, and pepper to a small bowl and whisk to combine.

Step 4: Halfway during the cooking process, flip the frozen salmon fillets over and brush on the maple Dijon sauce. Set cook time for 7-9 minutes.

Golden-brown air fryer frozen salmon fillets served on a plate.

Air Fryer Frozen Salmon Recipe Tips

  • Adjust Cooking Time for Thickness: If your salmon fillets are thicker, you may need to add an extra minute or two to the cooking time to ensure they cook all the way through.
  • Use Parchment Paper or Spray: For easy cleanup and to prevent the salmon from sticking to the basket, you can line the basket with parchment paper or lightly spray it with cooking oil.
  • Check Doneness: Salmon is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F. You can check with a food thermometer to be sure.
  • Customize Your Sauce: Feel free to adjust the amount of maple syrup, mustard, or garlic based on your taste preferences. You can also add a splash of lemon juice for added zest.
  • Serve with Sides: Pair your air fryer salmon with roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
  • Keep It Frozen: If you want an even quicker cook time, keep the salmon frozen until it’s time to cook. There’s no need to thaw the fillets beforehand!

Storing

  • Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. 
  • Reheating: To reheat salmon in the air fryer, preheat the air fryer to 350°F. Place the salmon in the basket and air fry for about 3-5 minutes, checking to ensure it’s heated through.
Perfectly cooked air fryer frozen salmon fillets on a white plate.

What To Serve With Air Fryer Frozen Salmon

Air fryer frozen salmon pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides that complement its rich, savory flavor. Serve it with roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts for a healthy and satisfying meal, or opt for a side of creamy mashed potatoes or quinoa for a comforting touch. A light salad with lemon vinaigrette or a side of rice pilaf can also bring freshness and balance to the dish. Whatever you choose, the combination will create a delicious and well-rounded meal perfect for any occasion!

Air Fryer Frozen Salmon Recipe Faqs

Can I use fresh salmon instead of frozen? Yes, you can use fresh salmon fillets. Adjust the cooking time to about 8-10 minutes, depending on thickness.

Do I need to thaw the salmon before air frying? No, this recipe is designed for frozen salmon. There’s no need to thaw it beforehand!

Can I use a different type of seasoning? Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite seasonings or marinades, like lemon zest, garlic butter, or teriyaki sauce.

What if my salmon is thicker than 6 oz fillets? If your fillets are thicker, you may need to add a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time. Make sure to check for doneness with a fork, or meat thermometer.

Can I cook multiple fillets at once? Yes, you can cook multiple fillets in the air fryer, but be sure to arrange them in a single layer to ensure even cooking. You may need to cook in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.

When cooking frozen salmon in the air fryer, do I place skin side up, or salmon skin down? When cooking frozen salmon in the air fryer, place the skin side down for the best texture and even cooking.

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Perfectly cooked Air Fryer Frozen Salmon fillets with crispy edges."

Air Fryer Frozen Salmon

4.77 from 34 votes
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 16 minutes
Total Time: 21 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings

Description

Cook perfectly tender and flavorful frozen salmon in an air fryer. Quick, easy, and packed with deliciousness for a healthy meal.
YouTube video

Ingredients 

  • 2 frozen salmon fillets, about 6 ounce each
  • 3 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 2 teaspoon maple syrup
  • 2 teaspoon minced garlic
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon Kosher salt, to taste

Instructions

  • Preheat your air fryer to 390 degrees F for 3-5 minutes so that it’s already hot when you add the salmon.
  • Place the frozen salmon fillets in a single layer in the air fryer basket, salmon skin side down, leaving some space between each fillet for even cooking. Lightly brush the salmon fillets with olive oil on both sides to prevent sticking and enhance flavor. Season the salmon with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences. Set cook time for 7 minutes.
  • The sauce is optional, but I definitely recommend making it! Add the Dijon mustard, maple syrup, minced garlic, salt, and pepper to a small bowl and whisk to combine.
  • Halfway during the cooking process, flip the frozen salmon fillets over and brush on the maple Dijon sauce. Set cook time for 7-9 minutes.

Equipment

  • Cooking Spray, Or olive oil, avocado oil.
  • Parchment Paper, optional

Nutrition

Serving: 1ServingCalories: 140kcalCarbohydrates: 4gProtein: 17gFat: 6gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gTrans Fat: 0.003gCholesterol: 47mgSodium: 452mgPotassium: 451mgFiber: 1gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 43IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 25mgIron: 1mg

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