How to Make Salmon Fillets in the Air Fryer

Make perfect Salmon Fillets in the Air Fryer in under 20 minutes! This easy air fryer salmon recipe creates flaky, restaurant-quality fish with lemon pepper seasoning. Works with fresh or frozen salmon.

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Quick Recipe Overview

WHAT: Tender salmon fillets coated in lemon pepper seasoning and cooked in the air fryer until perfectly flaky with a golden, crispy exterior.

WHY: This foolproof method delivers restaurant-quality salmon in minutes with minimal cleanup and consistently delicious results every single time.

HOW: Season oil-brushed salmon filets with lemon pepper and garlic powder, then air fry at 390°F for 12 minutes until golden and cooked through.

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Why I Love Making Salmon Fillets in Air Fryer

When my weeknights get hectic and I need dinner on the table fast, this air fryer salmon recipe saves the day. I used to think cooking salmon was intimidating - worrying about it sticking to the pan, overcooking it, or ending up with that fishy smell lingering in my kitchen. Then I tried making salmon in the air fryer, and everything changed.

The air fryer creates this beautifully crispy exterior while keeping the inside incredibly tender and moist. No flipping required, no hovering over a hot stove, and my kitchen stays fresh. I can toss the salmon in the air fryer, set the timer, and walk away to help with homework or throw together a quick salad.

Whether I remember to thaw my salmon the night before or need to cook it straight from the freezer, this method works beautifully. My kids actually request "the crispy salmon" for dinner now, which feels like a major parenting win. The lemon pepper seasoning gives it just the right amount of brightness and flavor without overpowering the fish.

Ingredient Notes

Lemon Pepper Seasoning: This is the flavor star of the recipe. Look for a blend that contains both dried lemon peel and black pepper for the best results. You can find it in the spice aisle of any grocery store.

Salmon Fillets: Choose fresh, bright-colored fillets with firm flesh. Wild-caught salmon tends to be leaner, while farm-raised has more fat and a milder flavor. Either works beautifully in this recipe.

For the exact amounts needed, please see the recipe card below.

How To Make Salmon Fillets in Air Fryer

Step 1: Gather all the ingredients. Preheat your air fryer to 390°F. Drizzle the olive oil over your salmon filets and use a pastry brush or your hands to make sure each filet is evenly coated. 

Step 2: Combine the lemon pepper seasoning and garlic powder in a small bowl. Sprinkle the spice mix evenly over the salmon.

Step 3: Transfer your filets to the air fryer basket.

Step 4: Cook for 12 minutes. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Cooking Frozen Salmon in the Air Fryer

You can cook frozen salmon fillets directly in the air fryer, though thawing in the refrigerator overnight yields the best texture and most even cooking.

For Frozen Salmon:

• Rinse frozen fillets under cold water to remove ice crystals
• Pat completely dry with paper towels
• Brush with oil (you may need slightly more than when using fresh or completely thawed salmon)
• Season as directed in the recipe
• Cook at 390°F for 15-18 minutes, checking internal temperature at 15 minutes
• The extra cooking time ensures the center thaws and cooks through properly

Thawing Tip: For best results, place frozen salmon in the refrigerator 12-24 hours before cooking. This allows for even thawing and better seasoning absorption.

What to Serve With Air Fryer Frozen Salmon

This salmon pairs beautifully with a variety of sides to create a complete meal. For vegetables, try roasted asparagus or green beans, steamed broccoli with lemon butter, sautéed spinach with garlic, or air fryer Brussels sprouts.

When it comes to starches, fluffy white rice or brown rice, garlic mashed potatoes, quinoa pilaf, or roasted baby potatoes all complement the salmon perfectly.

If you prefer a lighter option, serve it alongside a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette, Caesar salad, cucumber tomato salad, or mixed greens with balsamic dressing.

Storage & Reheating Tips

Room Temperature

Cooked salmon should not sit at room temperature for more than 2 hours. If you're serving it at a gathering, keep it warm in a low oven (200°F) or plan to serve it within that 2-hour window for food safety.

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Let it cool to room temperature before sealing to prevent excess moisture buildup.

Freezer Storage

Freeze cooked salmon for up to 3 months. Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating Tips

• Oven method (best): Wrap fillets in foil and reheat at 275°F for 15 minutes to prevent drying
• Air fryer: Reheat at 350°F for 3-4 minutes
• Microwave: Use 50% power in 30-second intervals, though this can dry out the salmon

Make-Ahead

You can season the raw salmon up to 4 hours ahead and refrigerate until ready to cook. Bring to room temperature for 15 minutes before air frying for even cooking.