Air Fryer Salmon (Time & Temperature)

Exactly how long to air fry salmon, plus temperature and tips.

Updated 7 September 2026

The air fryer makes salmon quick and easy. Set it to 190°C / 375°F and cook for 8-12 min - the cheat sheet on this page has everything at a glance, and the steps below walk you through it. Cook skin-side down - the skin protects the fillet and crisps up beautifully.

How to air fry salmon

  1. 1Preheat the air fryer to 190°C / 375°F.
  2. 2Prepare the salmon and toss or rub with olive oil, lemon, salt and dill.
  3. 3Arrange in a single layer in the basket so the air can circulate.
  4. 4Air fry at 190°C / 375°F for 8-12 min. No need to turn.
  5. 5Cook until the flesh flakes easily with a fork and looks opaque. Use a thermometer to confirm 63°C / 145°F.

Fresh vs frozen

Fresh

Fresh salmon: 190°C / 375°F for 8-12 min.

From frozen

From frozen: 180°C / 350°F for 12-16 min, adding a few minutes as needed.

Tips for the best results

  • Cook skin-side down - the skin protects the fillet and crisps up beautifully.
  • Serve salmon straight from the basket while hot and crisp.
  • Adjust by a minute or two for your air fryer - every model runs slightly differently.

Common mistakes to avoid

  • Overcrowding the basket, which steams salmon instead of crisping it.
  • Skipping the shake or flip, leading to uneven cooking.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do you cook salmon in an air fryer?+

Cook salmon at 190°C / 375°F for 8-12 min. Times vary a little by size and by air fryer model.

What temperature for salmon in an air fryer?+

Set the air fryer to 190°C / 375°F for salmon.

What internal temperature should salmon reach?+

Salmon is safely cooked at 63°C / 145°F in the thickest part.

Can you cook salmon from frozen?+

Yes. From frozen, cook at 180°C / 350°F for 12-16 min, no need to flip.

You might also like