How to Defrost Salmon in Air Fryer
While we recommend cooking salmon from frozen, some recipes require thawed fish. Here's how to quickly defrost salmon in your air fryer.
Quick Answer
Can you defrost salmon in an air fryer?
Yes, use the defrost setting (around 150°F) for 5-8 minutes. Check frequently. Better option: cook directly from frozen - no thawing needed.
Cook Time
5-8 min
Temperature
150°F (65°C)
Do You Need to Defrost?
In most cases, no. You can cook salmon directly from frozen in the air fryer by adding about 50% more cooking time. This often produces better results than thawing.
When You Do Need to Defrost
- Making salmon patties or croquettes
- Cutting salmon into cubes or bites
- Making stuffed salmon or rolling
- Creating marinated salmon
Air Fryer Defrost Method
Use the lowest setting (around 150°F or the defrost button). Check every 2-3 minutes. You want pliable, not warm - the edges can start cooking if left too long. Finish thawing at room temperature.
After Defrosting
Cooking Times
Cooking Times by Temperature
| Temperature | Celsius | Cook Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 150°F | 65°C | 5-8 min | Defrost function |
| 200°F | 93°C | 3-5 min | Quick partial thaw |
Expert Tips
- 1Use lowest temperature setting or defrost function.
- 2Check every 2 minutes to prevent cooking the edges.
- 3Goal is pliable, not fully thawed - finish thawing at room temp.
- 4Some air fryers have dedicated defrost buttons.
- 5Alternative: Cook directly from frozen (add 50% more time).
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Our team tests air fryer recipes in-house using USDA food safety guidelines. All cooking times are verified with calibrated thermometers.
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