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If you’ve ever wondered how long to cook salmon in an air fryer at 400°F, you’re not alone. Getting that perfectly tender, flaky, restaurant quality salmon can feel tricky, as it needs the combination of perfect temperature setting and exact cook time.
The good news? Using your air fryer takes the guesswork out. With the right time and temperature, you can enjoy a beautifully crisp exterior and buttery interior in just about 10 minutes, no oven, no pan, and minimal cleanup!
Why Cooking Salmon at 400°F in an Air Fryer Works
Cooking fish at 400°F gives that ideal balance between crispness and moisture:
- Even heat circulation: The air fryer cooks from all sides, ensuring the salmon browns evenly.
- Quick cook time: High heat locks in natural juices while crisping the outside.
- Healthier results: You only need a light brush of oil — or none at all.
This method works for fillets, salmon portions, or even skin-on cuts. Perfect for beginners looking for a quick, foolproof seafood dinner.
What You’ll Need
Ingredients
- Fresh or thawed salmon fillets (about 1 inch thick)
- Olive oil or spray (optional)
- Salt and pepper
- Optional herbs or seasonings: lemon slices, garlic powder, paprika, or dill
Tools
- Air fryer (basket or oven-style)
- Tongs or spatula
- Instant-read thermometer (for best accuracy)
Step-by-Step: How to Cook Salmon in an Air Fryer at 400°F
1. Preheat Your Air Fryer
- Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Let it preheat for about 3 minutes. Preheating helps the salmon sear quickly for that lovely crust.
2. Prepare the Salmon
- Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels.
- Lightly brush or spray with olive oil.
- Season both sides with salt, pepper, and your favorite spices.
Optional: Add lemon slices on top for a bright flavor boost.
3. Arrange in the Basket
- Place salmon skin side down in a single layer.
- Avoid overcrowding — leave space for air to circulate.
4. Air Fry at 400°F
- Cook time:
- Skin-on fillets (1 inch thick): 9–10 minutes
- Thinner fillets: 7–8 minutes
- Thicker fillets (>1 ¼ inches): 11–12 minutes
No need to flip — the hot air cooks it evenly from all sides.
5. Check for Doneness
- Internal temperature should reach 125°F to 130°F for medium or 145°F per USDA guidelines.
- The flesh should flake easily with a fork and appear opaque and juicy, not translucent.
If it’s slightly underdone, close the basket and cook for another 1–2 minutes.
6. Rest and Serve
- Let the salmon rest for 2 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute for maximum tenderness.
Serve with a squeeze of lemon, over rice, salad, or veggies.
Pro Tips & Best Practices
- Don’t overcook: Salmon cooks fast. Start checking at the 8-minute mark.
- Use a thermometer: It’s the easiest way to guarantee perfectly cooked fish.
- Add flavor layers: A quick glaze of honey, soy sauce, or teriyaki before cooking adds depth.
- Keep the skin on: It acts as a natural barrier, keeping moisture inside.
- Clean the basket after each batch: This prevents lingering fishy odors.
Common Questions About Air Fryer Salmon
1. Can I cook frozen salmon in the air fryer?
Yes! Add 3–4 extra minutes to the total cook time (about 12–14 minutes at 400°F). Brush with oil halfway through for better texture.
2. Should I flip salmon in the air fryer?
Not necessary — the air fryer’s hot air cooks both sides evenly. However, flipping halfway can help if your model has uneven heating.
3. What’s the best way to know salmon is done?
Use an instant-read thermometer. The center should read 125–130°F for tender, medium salmon. It will continue cooking slightly after resting.
4. Can I use foil or parchment paper?
Yes, line the air fryer basket with foil or parchment for easy cleanup. Just make sure air can circulate freely.
5. How do I keep salmon from sticking?
Lightly brush oil on both the basket and the fish before cooking. Skin-on fillets also stick less.
When NOT to Cook Salmon at 400°F
Avoid 400°F if:
- You’re cooking very thin fillets (under ½ inch thick). They may dry out — lower the temperature to 375°F and check at 6–7 minutes.
- You prefer medium-rare salmon; try 390°F for 8 minutes instead.
- You’re using a marinade with high sugar content (like teriyaki) — it can burn at higher temps. Cook at 375°F for 10–12 minutes.
Alternative Temperatures & Timings
| Temperature | Cook Time | Texture Result |
| 375°F | 10–12 min | Softer, milder browning |
| 390°F | 8–9 min | Medium doneness with light crisp |
| 400°F | 9–10 min | Firm edges, flaky center |
| 425°F | 7–8 min | Very crispy, slightly drier texture |
Conclusion
Cooking salmon in the air fryer at 400°F for about 9–10 minutes gives you that golden exterior and melt-in-your-mouth inside — all without the hassle of preheating a full oven or dealing with frying pans.
It’s beginner-friendly, fast, and guaranteed to impress at dinner time. Once you try this method, you’ll never go back to the stovetop again!