Cooking salmon can feel intimidating, but with an air fryer, it’s easier than ever to achieve tender, juicy, and perfectly cooked fish every single time. If you’ve been wondering how long to cook salmon in air fryer at 400, this guide will walk you through everything step by step. From cooking times to seasoning tips and FAQs, you’ll learn exactly how to prepare this healthy meal without stress.
Why Use an Air Fryer for Salmon?
Air fryers have become one of the most popular kitchen appliances, and for good reason. They cook food quickly while giving it a crispy outside and tender inside – all with less oil. When it comes to salmon, the air fryer helps lock in moisture while giving the fish a slightly crisp edge. Plus, there’s no need to preheat the oven or deal with messy pans.
Ingredients Required to Cook Salmon
Here’s a simple list of ingredients for this air fryer salmon recipe:
- 2 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each, skin-on or skinless)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (or melted butter)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika (optional, for color and flavor)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 lemon wedge (for serving)
- Fresh herbs like parsley or dill (optional garnish)
Tip: You can adjust the seasonings based on your favorite flavors or use a marinade such as honey garlic, lemon pepper, or Cajun spice blend.
So, How Long to Cook Salmon in Air Fryer at 400?
The short answer: 8 to 10 minutes.
Cooking salmon at 400°F in the air fryer is the sweet spot for perfectly cooked fish. At this temperature, the salmon cooks fast while staying juicy and flaky.
- For thinner salmon fillets (about ½ inch thick), 7–8 minutes is usually enough.
- For thicker fillets (about 1 inch or more), 10–12 minutes may be needed.
Always check for doneness with a fork – the salmon should flake easily and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Step-by-Step Guide: Air Fryer Salmon at 400°F
Here’s a simple process to make delicious air fryer salmon:
Step 1: Prepare the Salmon
Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning stick and prevents excess moisture.
Step 2: Season the Salmon
Brush with olive oil and season with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, or your favorite spice blend. You can also use a marinade for extra flavor.
Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer
Some air fryers require preheating. If yours does, set it to 400°F and let it heat for 2–3 minutes.
Step 4: Cook the Salmon
Place the fillets skin-side down in the air fryer basket. Cook at 400°F for 8–10 minutes, depending on thickness. Avoid overcrowding – leave space between fillets for even cooking.
Step 5: Check for Doneness
Use a fork to gently flake the salmon. If it flakes easily and has an opaque pink color inside, it’s ready. If not, cook for another 1–2 minutes.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Top with lemon juice, fresh herbs, or a drizzle of honey glaze. Serve with vegetables, rice, or salad for a complete meal.
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Salmon
- Don’t Overcook: Salmon dries out if cooked too long. Stick to the 8–10 minute guideline.
- Skin-On Fillets: Cooking with the skin on helps keep the fish moist and flavorful. You can remove the skin easily after cooking.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Cook in batches if needed to ensure even air circulation.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: For precise cooking, check the salmon’s internal temperature – it should reach 145°F.
Flavor Variations to Try
- Garlic Butter Salmon – Brush with melted butter, garlic, and parsley.
- Honey Soy Salmon – Marinate in soy sauce, honey, and ginger before cooking.
- Lemon Pepper Salmon – Simple, fresh, and zesty with lemon slices.
- Spicy Cajun Salmon – Add a Cajun spice rub for a bold kick.
Conclusion
Now you know exactly how long to cook salmon in air fryer at 400 – usually 8 to 10 minutes for tender, juicy, perfectly cooked fillets. The air fryer makes salmon an easy weeknight dinner that’s healthy, flavorful, and ready in minutes.
Whether you enjoy it with lemon and herbs, a sweet honey glaze, or bold Cajun spices, air fryer salmon is a meal you’ll want to make again and again. Quick, simple, and delicious – it’s the perfect way to cook salmon at home.
FAQ’s
1. Can I cook frozen salmon in the air fryer?
Yes! You can cook frozen salmon at 400°F for about 12–15 minutes. Just season lightly before cooking – no need to thaw.
2. Do I need to flip the salmon in the air fryer?
No, flipping isn’t necessary. Cooking skin-side down is enough, but if you want both sides slightly crispy, you can flip halfway through.
3. How do I prevent salmon from sticking to the air fryer basket?
Brush the basket lightly with oil or use parchment paper designed for air fryers to prevent sticking.
4. Is 400°F the best temperature for salmon in the air fryer?
Yes, 400°F is ideal for cooking salmon quickly while keeping it moist. Lower temperatures may take longer and risk over-drying.
5. How can I reheat leftover salmon in the air fryer?
Reheat at 350°F for 3–4 minutes. This will warm it up without drying it out.