Short Answer:

Salmon should be cooked in an air fryer for 8–12 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillet. Thinner fillets cook closer to 8 minutes, while thicker ones may take up to 12 minutes. Cooking time should be monitored to ensure the salmon remains tender and moist.

Overcooking salmon can dry it out, while undercooking may leave the interior raw. Checking for flakiness and an internal temperature of 63°C (145°F) ensures perfectly cooked air fryer salmon every time.

Detailed Explanation:

Cooking Time for Air Fryer Salmon

The time required to cook salmon in an air fryer depends primarily on the fillet’s thickness and the set temperature. Proper timing is crucial to achieve a tender, moist interior while developing a slightly crispy exterior. Air frying is faster than traditional oven baking, making it ideal for quick meals.

Recommended Time Range

1. 8–12 Minutes – This range is generally suitable for most salmon fillets cooked at 180–200°C (350–400°F).
2. Thin Fillets – Fillets under 2.5 cm thick usually require around 8–9 minutes. They cook quickly, so monitoring is essential to prevent drying.
3. Thick Fillets – Fillets thicker than 2.5 cm may need 10–12 minutes. The extra time ensures the center is fully cooked without overcooking the exterior.

Factors Affecting Cooking Time

1. Air Fryer Model – Different air fryers may circulate heat differently, so times may vary slightly. Adjust based on the appliance’s performance.
2. Temperature – Cooking at the higher end of the range (200°C / 400°F) may reduce required cooking time, while lower temperatures (180°C / 350°F) may need slightly longer.
3. Fillet Size and Shape – Wider or uneven fillets may cook unevenly if not arranged properly. Placing fillets in a single layer ensures even cooking.

Tips for Perfect Timing

1. Preheat the Air Fryer – Preheating ensures the salmon starts cooking immediately, improving texture and color.
2. Light Oil Spray – Helps achieve a golden-brown exterior while cooking evenly within the recommended time.
3. Monitoring Doneness – Check for flakiness with a fork or use a thermometer to reach an internal temperature of 63°C (145°F). This ensures a safe and perfectly cooked fish.
4. Avoid Overcrowding – Leave space between fillets to allow hot air circulation, which ensures consistent cooking times across all pieces.

Conclusion:

Salmon should be cooked in an air fryer for 8–12 minutes, depending on thickness and temperature. Thinner fillets cook faster, while thicker ones need more time. Monitoring doneness, preheating the air fryer, and leaving space between fillets ensures tender, moist salmon with a slightly crispy exterior. Following the recommended cooking time produces a healthy, flavorful, and convenient meal every time.