There is no better way to cook salmon than in an air fryer. This recipe uses a quick and tasty spice rub to make it tender and flaky in the middle and golden on the outside.
It comes together in 10 minutes can be served with absolutely any side for the perfect meal!
Cooking salmon to tender, flaky perfection can seem intimidating. Undercook it and you’ll end up with a raw center. Overdo it and your fish will be dry and tasteless. Thankfully, your Ninja Air Fryer makes achieving salmon greatness easy. If you use the right settings and follow a few easy steps, you can make salmon that tastes like it came from a restaurant without having to guess.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk through everything you need to know to unlock the air-fried salmon secrets that will wow your family and guests. You’ll learn how long to cook salmon in the Ninja Air Fryer for different cuts and sizes. We’ll also cover how to prep your fish, what temperature to use, and tips for flavoring. Let’s get started!
How Long Should You Cook Salmon in a Ninja Air Fryer?
Cooking times can vary based on the size and cut of your salmon Here are some general guidelines
- Salmon fillets (1/2 to 3/4 inch thick): 9-12 minutes
- Salmon steaks (1 inch thick): 10-14 minutes
- Small salmon fillets: 7-9 minutes
- Large salmon fillets: 12-15 minutes
Read the user manual that came with your Ninja Air Fryer to get the most accurate cooking time. The total cook time will also depend on how thick the fish is and whether it’s fresh or frozen.
Pro Tips for Perfect Results
When you use your Ninja Air Fryer, make sure you follow these tips for juicy, tender salmon every time:
1. Pick High-Quality Fresh Fish
The starting quality of your salmon makes all the difference. Look for wild-caught fish that is bright pink or orange-red in color Make sure the flesh is firm and springs back when pressed gently Pass on any fish that smells unpleasant or ammonia-like.
2. Portion Your Salmon Evenly
Aim for fillets that are around 1 inch thick. If using steak cuts, slice them into uniform 1-inch portions. Even thickness means even cooking.
3. Brine or Marinate for Added Moisture
Soaking fish in a salty brine or marinade helps it retain moisture as it cooks. Try soaking for 20-30 minutes before air frying.
4. Pat Salmon Dry
Remove all visible moisture by gently patting with paper towels before cooking. This helps achieve a crispy skin.
5. Use a Light Coating of Oil
Brush both sides with a small amount of olive oil or avocado oil. This adds flavor and aids browning.
6. Preheat Your Ninja Air Fryer
Preheating helps seal in juices. Set temperature to 390°F before adding fish.
7. Don’t Overcrowd
Leave space between portions to allow airflow. Overcrowding leads to uneven cooking.
8. Flip Salmon Halfway
Set a timer and flip fillets halfway during cooking for the best texture on both sides.
9. Allow Salmon to Rest
Let salmon rest for 5 minutes after cooking. This finishes the cooking process and produces juicier meat.
Step-By-Step Method for Air Frying Salmon
Now that you know how long to cook salmon and helpful tips, let’s walk through the foolproof process:
-
Cut your salmon into 1-inch thick portions. Pick wild-caught fillets or steaks for the best flavor and texture.
-
Pat dry thoroughly with paper towels. Getting rid of excess moisture helps salmon crisp up nicely.
-
Brush lightly with oil on both sides. Use olive, avocado, or coconut oil to add flavor and aid browning.
-
Season as desired. Simple salt and pepper is delicious. You can also use mustards, herbs, citrus, or other rubs.
-
Preheat air fryer to 390°F. Give your appliance 4-5 minutes to fully preheat.
-
Arrange salmon portions in a single layer, without crowding. Leave at least 1-inch between pieces for even cooking.
-
Air fry thick fillets for 9-12 minutes. Cook time will vary based on size. Refer to your model’s manual.
-
Flip salmon halfway through. Set a timer for easier tracking.
-
Check for doneness at the minimum cook time. Salmon should flake easily and be opaque throughout.
-
Allow to rest for 5 minutes before serving. This makes salmon juicier.
-
Optionally, add fresh herbs or drizzle with oil before serving. This adds brightness and richness.
-
Enjoy your perfectly cooked air fried salmon!
Handy Temperature, Thickness, and Time Chart
For quick reference, use this handy chart to determine the best time and temperature combo for your salmon cuts:
| Thickness | Temperature | Cook Time |
|---|---|---|
| 1/2 inch fillets | 390°F | 7-9 minutes |
| 3/4 inch fillets | 390°F | 9-12 minutes |
| 1 inch fillets/steaks | 390°F | 12-15 minutes |
| 1 inch steaks | 400°F | 10-14 minutes |
Flavoring Ideas
One of the joys of salmon is how well it takes to different seasonings and marinades. After air frying, try topping with one of these flavor ideas:
- Lemon, dill, and garlic
- Teriyaki or soy sauce
- Honey-mustard glaze
- Blackening seasoning
- Salsa or fresh pico de gallo
- Barbecue sauce or rub
- Fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or basil
Get creative with your own spice blends and sauces too. Salmon stands up well to bold flavors. The high heat of the air fryer helps create a lovely caramelized exterior.
Side Dishes That Pair Perfectly with Salmon
Salmon’s versatility makes it easy to find side dish pairings. Here are some excellent options:
- Rice pilaf or risotto
- Roasted potatoes or veg
- Fresh green salad
- Asparagus or green beans
- Quinoa or couscous
- Fruit salsa
- Roasted brussels sprouts
Basic roasted, grilled, or steamed veggies also make great low-effort sides. Salmon provides healthy fats and protein to make a well-rounded plate.
Helpful Tips to Avoid Overcooking
It can be disheartening when salmon ends up dry or rubbery. Use these tips to help prevent overcooking:
-
Invest in a good instant-read thermometer. This takes the guesswork out of doneness.
-
For thicker cuts, drop the temperature 25°F lower than thinner pieces. They require a gentler heat.
-
Always fully preheat your Ninja Air Fryer before adding fish.
-
Resist the urge to flip salmon more than once during cooking.
-
Use the minimum recommended cook time and check early for doneness.
-
For frozen salmon, add 2-3 extra minutes to the cook time.
-
If air frying longer than 15 minutes, tent with foil to prevent over-browning.
Storing and Reheating Leftover Salmon
Like any seafood, salmon is highly perishable. For food safety, follow these storage guidelines:
-
Refrigerate cooked salmon within 2 hours of cooking.
-
Store cooked salmon for 3-4 days maximum in an airtight container.
-
Freeze for longer storage (2-3 months) if you won’t eat it within 4 days.
To reheat, use one of these quick methods:
-
Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat.
-
Oven: Wrap in foil and bake at 300°F until warmed through.
-
Sauté: Flake into chunks and lightly sauté in butter or oil over medium-high heat.
-
Simmer: Add to soups, pasta sauces, or grains and gently simmer to warm.
With the knowledge you’ve gained here, you can look forward to lip-smacking salmon anytime you use your Ninja Air Fryer. Experiment with different prep techniques, flavor additions, and side pairings. In no time, you’ll earn a reputation as the air-fried salmon master among your friends and family.
Easy Recipe for Making Perfect Salmon in the Air Fryer
It’s become my new favorite thing to do to cook in the air fryer! As you know, I love quick dinners, and this air fryer salmon recipe is too easy to mess up. This is my new favorite way to cook salmon, and it only takes 10 minutes to put together.
It cooks fast, cooks just right, and is absolutely delicious. Plus, no smelling your entire house up like salmon!.
We’re going to lightly coat salmon filets in olive oil and then season them with just the right amount of sweet and spicy. After air-frying them for just a few minutes, they will be soft, flaky, golden, and crispy on the outside. Seriously incredibly delicious.
- Salmon: For this recipe, you’ll need one pound of salmon cut into two filets.
- Oil: we’re putting oil on the salmon before air-frying it to keep it moist and help the seasonings stick.
- Spice Rub: We’re making our own spice rub with garlic powder, chili pepper, coconut sugar, cilantro, salt, and pepper.
You can be really creative with the seasonings you use for this salmon recipe. I really like the sweet and spicy mix I suggested. Try everything bagel seasoning, taco seasoning, Cajun seasoning, or even burger seasoning!.
Can I Use Frozen Salmon?
Yes! You can totally cook frozen salmon in the air fryer if that’s what you have on hand.
For frozen salmon: Wrap the filets in foil and cook first at 400ºF for 7 minutes. Take the salmon out of the oven after 7 minutes and cook for another 6 to 11 minutes, or until it’s crispy and the internal temperature reaches 145oF.
Salmon in the Ninja Foodi Dual Zone Air Fryer | AF300UK
FAQ
What temperature should I set my air fryer for salmon?
Do you have to flip salmon in an air fryer?
What temperature to cook salmon?
Do you cook salmon skin up or skin down in an air fryer?
How long do you cook salmon in a ninja air fryer?
Once the salmon is placed in the air fryer basket, set the Ninja Air Fryer to 400°F and cook the fish for 10-12 minutes, depending on the thickness of the salmon fillet. It’s important to check the salmon periodically to ensure that it doesn’t overcook. When the salmon is done, it should be flaky and opaque in the center.
How long do you air Fry salmon?
Spray air fryer basket with non stick spray and put piece with skin side down inside. Cut butter into thin slices and put on top evenly across top of fish. Close and air fry for 13 – 15 minutes at 400 degrees or until fish is flaky and as done as you desire. Serve air fried salmon with side dish and eat immediately for best texture and taste.
How long does it take to cook salmon in a ninja foodi?
Air Fryer Salmon with Parmesan dill crust is done in 10 minutes in the Ninja Foodi! So delicious, with a Parmesan topping that browns up with NO breading needed, you won’t find an easier way to cook your salmon. (this article may contain affiliate links to check out the most recent cost and products so you can get a Ninja Foodi too)
Can You air Fry frozen salmon?
One of the beauties of air-frying frozen salmon is that there’s no need to thaw it beforehand. Preheat your air fryer to 190C / 380F. This ensures that the frozen salmon starts cooking immediately, sealing in its juices. Place the frozen salmon fillets in a single layer in the air fryer basket.