How To Reheat Salmon In Air Fryer (Without Drying it Out): Step-by-Step Guide
Leftover salmon, you say?
Been there, cooked that—wrongly.
Trust me, I’ve learned through trial and error how to turn yesterday’s fishy fare into today’s culinary masterpiece.
How to reheat salmon in air fryer without kissing its moisture goodbye?
The secret lies in a few simple ingredients like olive oil, lemon juice, and melted butter. No longer must you dread turning your delicious and healthy meal into a dry, unappetizing mess. Prepare to enjoy perfectly reheated salmon that’s as good as—if not better than—the first time around.
So, grab that air fryer, follow along, and let’s make leftovers the meal you’ve been dreaming of!
Your Step-by-Step Guide to Reheat Salmon in Air Fryer
Step 1: Preheat Air Fryer
First things first, let’s get that air fryer nice and toasty. Preheating your appliance is crucial for even reheating and that perfect, moist texture we’re aiming for.
Set your air fryer to around 350°F (175°C) and let it warm up for about 5 minutes.
Step 2: Proper Placement
Now that your air fryer is preheated, it’s time to get that salmon in there—but not so fast!
Placement matters.
Take your leftover salmon and lightly brush both sides with olive oil. This not only adds flavor but helps to lock in moisture.
Use parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent sticking, and then lay the salmon on top, skin-side down with plenty of space in between fillets if there are multiple.
Step 3: Cook for 3-5 min
Close the air fryer and set the timer for 3 minutes. The exact time may vary based on the thickness of your salmon and the specific model of your air fryer.
Step 4: Check Temp
Once the timer dings, carefully open the air fryer and check the internal temperature of the salmon with a food thermometer.
You’re aiming for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C), which is the FDA-recommended safe temperature for cooked fish. If it’s not quite there, close the air fryer and cook for another minute or two.
Remember, it’s easier to add more cooking time than to undo overcooked, dry salmon.
Step 4: Soak Your Basket
Before digging in, it’s good practice to put some soapy water in the basket after you’ve plated your meal so that clean up is even easier once dinner is done.
For more tips on how to clean your air fryer, check out my step-by-step guide.
Step 5: Enjoy
You’ve made it!
Drizzle some melted butter and a squeeze of lemon over your perfectly reheated salmon for an extra burst of flavor.
Plate it up with some crispy air-fried brussel sprouts, or perhaps atop a fresh salad.
Go ahead, take a bite, and savor the victory!
Tips & Tricks from Chef Lauren
Tip 1: The Temperature Game
We usually aim for an internal temperature of 145°F for cooked fish.
However, try pulling your salmon out of the air fryer basket at around 140°F. Let it rest for a few minutes and the temperature should naturally rise to 145°F, avoiding any risk of overcooking.
Your result? Perfectly moist salmon.
Tip 2: Skip the Cooking Spray
Don’t reach for that can of cooking spray just yet.
Instead, opt for a homemade spray bottle filled with olive or grapeseed oil.
This not only offers a healthier alternative for you but if you’re air fryer basket is nonstick, store bought cooking sprays can cause damage to the coating.
Tip 3: A Spice Blend That Delivers
When you season salmon with my signature spice blend, you won’t be disappointed!
1 tablespoon ground coriander
1 tablespoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Mistakes To Avoid:
Don’t overload on oil.
While it’s tempting to douse your salmon in olive oil to keep it perfectly moist, using too much can actually backfire. Excessive oil can result in greasy, overcooked salmon that tastes more like a mistake than a meal.
A light brushing of oil is all you need for that perfect balance.
What Are the Best Air Fryers for Reheating Salmon?
I always recommend non toxic air fryers for ANY recipe. Why would you cook with toxic materials when you just don’t have to?!
Check out my recommendations for the best non toxic air fryers here.
And check out my favorite stainless steel air fryers here.
FAQs
Is It Safe to Reheat Salmon in an Air Fryer?
Yes. Just make sure the internal temperature comes up to at least 145°F (63°C).
Can You Reheat Smoked Salmon in an Air Fryer?
Yes. You would follow the same instructions as above for reheating smoked salmon in the air fryer.
What Other Methods to Reheat Salmon?
You could reheat cooked salmon in the oven.
Place the fish on a baking sheet with a silicone baking mat, parchment paper or aluminum foil and bake at 350°F for 10 minutes.
You could also reheat salmon in the microwave although I don’t recommend it as it’s difficult to get the salmon to the right temperature and keep the fish moist. The salmon will likely get overcooked because of the high heat.