Cooking salmon in the air fryer couldn’t be easier, and it all starts with good prep. First, always preheat your air fryer to ensure even cooking—about 200°C (or 400°F) is ideal. If you're using skin-on fillets, place them skin side down to keep the meat moist and create that satisfying crisp underneath. Lightly coat the fillet with olive oil or use a quick nonstick spray to prevent sticking. Now comes the fun bit—flavour. A simple rub of garlic powder, paprika, and a pinch of seasoned salt does wonders, but you can also try a sweet and savoury twist with a honey-Dijon glaze.
Wondering how to cook salmon in an air fryer without drying it out? We’ve got you covered. At AirFryerRecipe.co.uk, we’ve perfected the method over countless tests and trials. For a smooth starting point, explore our salmon recipe hub, including this easy lemon garlic salmon and the ultra-satisfying crispy salmon bites. Looking for a full meal? Try pairing with our roasted vegetables or baby potatoes for a well-rounded air fryer dinner.
If your salmon always turns out dry or rubbery, it’s likely down to temperature control and timing. The key is not just how long to cook salmon in air fryer, but how it’s placed and what’s happening around it. You’ll want to allow space around the fillet in the air fryer basket so the hot air can circulate freely—don’t crowd it. Aim for around 8–10 minutes for a fresh fillet, and up to 12 minutes if you’re cooking frozen salmon directly. If using a meat thermometer, target an internal temperature of 60°C (140°F) for perfectly cooked, flaky, and moist salmon.
Looking for something super quick and tasty? Check out our air fryer salmon with skin for a no-fuss, crisp-finished recipe that hits every time. Or explore our growing healthy recipe collection, where our healthy air fryer salmon UK meals prove you don’t need to sacrifice taste for clean eating. Got questions on timings, oils, or ideal salmon types? Dive into our Air Fryer Knowledge Library for real answers backed by experimentation.
When aiming for that just-right doneness, temperature is your best friend. Always check the thickest part of the fillet using a digital thermometer. If you’re wondering exactly how long to cook salmon in air fryer, start at 8 minutes and adjust depending on thickness and whether it’s wild-caught or farmed. Pair it with a splash of lemon and some quick steamed veg for a foolproof quick air fryer dinner UK families love.
