How Long to Cook Salmon in Air Fryer at 375°F: Perfect Timing for Tender, Flaky Results

Cooking salmon in an air fryer is a game-changer for quick, healthy meals. It’s the perfect way to achieve tender, flaky fish with a slightly crispy exterior, all without the hassle of traditional cooking methods. If you’re looking for a foolproof way to prepare salmon, the air fryer at 375°F offers consistent results every time.

This method is not only efficient but also locks in the natural flavors of the salmon while keeping it moist. Whether you’re a busy home cook or just exploring new ways to enjoy seafood, mastering the timing is key. With the right temperature and cook time, you’ll have a delicious, restaurant-quality dish ready in no time.

How Long To Cook Salmon In Air Fryer At 375

Cooking salmon in your air fryer at 375°F typically takes 8-12 minutes depending on the thickness of your fillets and your desired level of doneness. Thinner fillets, around 1 inch thick, generally cook closer to 8 minutes. If your fillets are thicker, around 1.5-2 inches, you may need 10-12 minutes. Always check for doneness to avoid overcooking.

Preheat Your Air Fryer to 375°F

Preheating ensures even cooking and helps achieve a golden, slightly crisp crust on the outside of the salmon.

Prepare Your Salmon

Pat your salmon fillets dry with paper towels, and season them as desired. If using marinade, brush it evenly over the top.

Place Salmon in the Air Fryer Basket

Arrange your fillets in a single layer with the skin-side down. Ensure there is space between each piece for proper air circulation.

Set Timer Depending on Fillet Thickness

For fillets around 1 inch thick: Set the timer for 8 minutes.
For fillets over 1.5 inches thick: Set the timer for 10-12 minutes.

Check Doneness After Cooking

Use a fork to test if the salmon flakes easily. Alternatively, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The salmon is fully cooked when it reaches 145°F at the thickest part.

Optional: Add Extra Crispness

If you desire more crispness, air fry for an additional 1-2 minutes, but monitor closely to prevent overcooking.

Here’s a quick guide to cook times based on fillet thickness:

Salmon Thickness (inches)	Cooking Time (minutes)
1	8
1.5	10
2	12

Following these steps ensures you achieve perfectly cooked salmon every time with a tender, flaky interior and a beautifully crisp exterior.

Ingredients

To create perfectly air-fried salmon, you will need fresh salmon fillets and a few staple ingredients to enhance their natural flavor. Below is a list of essentials and optional additions to customize your dish.

For The Salmon

2 salmon fillets (fresh or thawed, about 1 inch thick)
1 tablespoon olive oil (or any neutral oil)
1 teaspoon kosher salt
½ teaspoon black pepper

1 teaspoon garlic powder or onion powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika or cajun seasoning
2 teaspoons honey or maple syrup for a touch of sweetness
Juice of ½ lemon for added brightness
1 tablespoon soy sauce or teriyaki sauce for extra umami
Fresh chopped herbs (parsley, dill, or chives) for garnish after cooking

Tools And Equipment

To cook salmon perfectly in your air fryer at 375°F, you need the right tools and equipment on hand. Here’s everything you’ll need to make the process seamless and efficient.

Air Fryer

Air Fryer with Temperature Control: Ensure your air fryer has a reliable temperature setting to maintain consistent heat at 375°F. Basket-style air fryers work best for even cooking.
Non-Stick Air Fryer Basket: A non-stick basket prevents the salmon from sticking and allows for easy cleanup. If your basket isn’t non-stick, use parchment paper or a light spritz of oil to avoid sticking.

Meat Thermometer: An instant-read thermometer helps you confirm the salmon is cooked to the perfect internal temperature of 145°F.
Tongs or Silicone Spatula: Use these to handle the salmon gently without breaking the fillets. Silicone tools are ideal to avoid scratching your air fryer basket.
Small Mixing Bowl and Brush: A bowl for mixing seasonings or marinades and a brush for evenly applying oil or seasonings to the salmon.
Paper Towels: Pat your salmon fillets dry to ensure a crispy exterior when air frying.
Cutting Board and Knife: For optional trimming or cutting salmon into smaller portions before cooking.

Directions

Follow these simple steps to cook salmon perfectly in an air fryer at 375°F. This method ensures tender, flaky fillets with a golden, lightly crisped surface.

Prep The Salmon

Rinse the salmon fillets under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
If needed, remove any remaining pin bones using tweezers.
Trim any uneven edges on the fillets for uniform cooking.

Prepare The Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F for about 3-5 minutes to ensure even cooking.
Lightly grease the air fryer basket with non-stick spray or use parchment paper designed for air fryers to prevent sticking.

Season The Salmon

Brush each salmon fillet with olive oil to help the seasoning adhere and promote browning.
Sprinkle fillets evenly with kosher salt and black pepper.
Add any optional seasonings, such as garlic powder, smoked paprika, or a drizzle of honey for a touch of sweetness.

Cook The Salmon In The Air Fryer At 375°F

Place the seasoned salmon fillets in the air fryer basket in a single layer, skin-side down, without overcrowding them.
Cook the fillets for 8 minutes if they are 1-inch thick. For thicker fillets, extend the time to 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking.
If you desire extra crispiness, air fry for an additional 1-2 minutes, but monitor closely to prevent overcooking.

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the thickest part of the salmon. It should read 145°F.
Alternatively, insert a fork into the salmon. If it flakes easily, it is fully cooked.
Once done, carefully remove the salmon using tongs or a silicone spatula to preserve its delicate structure.

Tips For Perfect Air Fryer Salmon

To achieve perfectly cooked, tender, and flavorful salmon in your air fryer, a few key tips can make all the difference. From selecting the ideal fillets to adjusting cooking times and serving options, here is how you can elevate your salmon every time.

Choosing The Right Salmon

Opt for fresh, high-quality salmon fillets for the best results. Look for vibrant, moist fillets with firm flesh and a mild ocean scent.
Skin-on fillets help hold the fish together during cooking and add a delicious, crispy texture. However, skinless fillets work well if you prefer a softer finish.
For consistency in cooking, select fillets of similar size and thickness. Wild-caught salmon typically has a richer flavor, while farmed varieties are often milder and more buttery.

Adjusting Cooking Time Based On Thickness

Thicker salmon fillets require slightly longer cooking times than thinner ones. Cook 1-inch thick fillets for about 8 minutes at 375°F and thicker fillets for 10-12 minutes.
Always check for doneness using a meat thermometer, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 145°F for perfectly cooked salmon.
For added crispness without drying out the fish, air fry for an additional 1-2 minutes, watching carefully to avoid overcooking.

Serve your air fryer salmon with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a garnish of chopped parsley or dill for a pop of brightness.
Pair with sides like roasted vegetables, steamed rice, quinoa, or a fresh arugula salad for a complete and balanced meal.
For a flavor twist, drizzle with honey soy glaze, creamy dill sauce, or garlic herb butter just before serving. This enhances the dish and adds a restaurant-quality finish.

Variations And Substitutions

You can experiment with different flavors and techniques to make your air-fried salmon truly unique. Whether it’s a new seasoning blend or adjusting the temperature, small changes can yield delicious results.

Different Seasoning Blends

Elevate your air-fried salmon by trying out different seasoning combinations. Here are a few options:

Cajun Spice: Use a mix of paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper for a bold, spicy kick.
Lemon Herb: Combine dried or fresh dill, parsley, garlic powder, and lemon zest for a bright, zesty flavor.
Asian-Inspired: Mix soy sauce, ginger powder, garlic, and a drizzle of sesame oil for a savory, umami-packed marinade.
Honey Mustard Glaze: Brush on a mixture of honey, Dijon mustard, and a pinch of smoked paprika for a touch of sweetness and tang.

Feel free to adjust these blends to suit your taste preferences and pair them with appropriate garnishes for the perfect finishing touch.

Alternative Cooking Temperatures

Cooking salmon at different temperatures can slightly adjust the texture and overall results. Here’s a guide for varying the air fryer temperature:

Temperature (°F)	Cooking Time	Suggested Outcome
350°F	10-14 minutes	Gentle cooking for a softer, flakier texture.
375°F	8-12 minutes	Balanced cooking for a tender center with a slightly crispy exterior.
400°F	6-10 minutes	Faster cooking with a crispier crust and bold flavors.

When adjusting temperatures, always monitor doneness with a meat thermometer to ensure the salmon reaches an internal temperature of 145°F for safe and perfect cooking. Adjusting the heat can add variety to your meals and create slightly different textures and flavors.

Make-Ahead Instructions And Storage

Cooking salmon in an air fryer is not only quick for immediate meals but also convenient for preparing ahead. Proper storage and reheating ensure your salmon stays tender and flavorful.

How To Store Leftovers

Allow the salmon to cool completely before storing. Wrap each fillet tightly in aluminum foil or place in an airtight container to maintain freshness. Refrigerate the salmon for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 3 months. If freezing, label the container with the date for easy reference.

Reheating Tips

To reheat air-fried salmon, preheat your air fryer to 350°F. Place the salmon in the basket and heat for 3-5 minutes to restore crispness while keeping the interior moist. Alternatively, you can reheat it in the oven at 300°F for 10-12 minutes, but avoid using the microwave as it can overcook and dry out the salmon. Always check the internal temperature to ensure it reaches 145°F before serving.

Conclusion

Cooking salmon in an air fryer at 375°F is a game-changer for creating a flavorful, healthy meal with minimal effort. By following the recommended steps and keeping an eye on cooking times, you can achieve perfectly tender and flaky salmon every time.

Whether you prefer simple seasoning or experimenting with bold flavors, the air fryer offers versatility and consistency. With the right tools and a little attention to detail, you’ll master this technique and elevate your salmon dishes effortlessly.