This Ninja Foodi salmon is my go-to when it’s 5:15 and dinner is still up in the air. All you do is brush the fillets with butter, sprinkle on lemon pepper and garlic, and air fry at 390°F. About eight minutes later, you’ve got juicy salmon with crisp, seasoned edges. Whether you have the original Foodi or a newer model, this Ninja air fryer salmon keeps dinner simple.
My boys love salmon, and I’ve made a lot of it. We love to cook Blackstone salmon, and cast iron salmon is a year-round favorite. Sheet pan salmon is perfect for when I want meat and veggies in one pan.
But when I’m pressed for time, I turn to this Ninja Air Fryer Salmon. Ninja no longer makes the original Foodi pressure cooker and air fryer combo. But I still use mine all the time. If you’ve got a newer Ninja air fryer, another type of air fryer, or the Crispi, this recipe works there too.
Ingredients
- Salmon Filets:Try to buy center-cut fillets of about the same thickness so they finish together. Tail pieces are thinner and will be done before the rest. Wild sockeye and coho are leaner and thinner than farmed Atlantic, so check them a minute or two early. Thawing frozen salmon? Move it to the fridge the night before, then pat it really dry before seasoning. A wet fillet steams instead of crisping.
- Lemon Pepper: Lemon pepper is a blend of lemon zest and cracked pepper that you can easily find at the store, or make at home!
- Garlic Powder: If you're out, or prefer fresh ingredients, minced garlic is a fantastic substitute. Want to mix up the flavor profile? Onion powder, rosemary, and smoked paprika are all great options for salmon in the air fryer.
- Sea Salt: Kosher salt is a great alternative.
- Melted Butter: If you're dairy-free, olive oil is an option that works just as well.
- Lemon Slices and Fresh Parsley: Freshly sliced lemons and a sprinkle of parsley aren't just for show; they add a pop of color and a fresh, citrusy aroma that elevates your fish fillets. Feel free to experiment with other herbs like dill or chives for a different twist!
Ninja Foodi Air Fryer Salmon Instructions
For the full recipe with measurements, see the recipe card at the end of the post.
Got a Different Ninja? Here's What to Press
Ninja no longer makes the original Foodi pressure cooker and air fryer combo. If you have a different model, here is what to press.
- Ninja Foodi (pressure cooker and air fryer): Close the crisping lid and pick Air Crisp at 390°F.
- Ninja basket air fryers: Pick Air Fry at 390°F.
- Ninja dual zone: Pick Air Fry at 390°F. If all four fillets don't fit in one layer, split them between the baskets and hit Match so both zones cook the same.
- Salmon in a Ninja Crispi: Use Air Fry at 390°F in the glass container, with the fillets in a single layer.
- Ninja Flip, Speedi or combi ovens: Use the Air Fry function at 390°F with the fillets spread out on the tray.
Some machines run a little hotter or cooler than others. The first time you make salmon in a Ninja air fryer you haven't used before, check it at 6 minutes. After that you'll know your machine.
How Long to Cook Salmon in a Ninja Air Fryer
In my testing, I found 8 minutes perfect for fillets about an inch thick. For thinner fillets, check at 6 minutes. I buy wild salmon. Thick farmed salmon will need more time, closer to 10 minutes.
I recommend using an instant-read thermometer. Pull the salmon when the thickest part reaches 130°F. Carryover cooking while it rests will bring it to 135°F.
If you don’t have a thermometer, press the top with a fork. It should flake and look a little darker pink in the center.
Tips and Tricks
- Don't Overcrowd: An overcrowded basket can lead to uneven cooking.
- Preheat is Key: Just like a traditional oven, preheating your Ninja Foodi ensures that your fillets start cooking immediately and evenly. It's the secret step to achieving that perfectly crisp texture we all love.
- Skin Side Down: Always cook your salmon skin side down first. This not only helps to keep the fish moist but also leaves you with crispy sin.
Serving Suggestions
Try air-fried asparagus, with its sassy char and delightful snap. You can whip up with this fantastic Air-Fried Asparagus recipe.
These Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts come out so crispy and golden, they might just steal the show.
If you're leaning towards cozy comfort, a bowl of aromatic Instant Pot Jasmine Rice is perfect.
And let's not forget the crunch factor; a vibrant Broccoli Cauliflower Salad could be just the thing to rally the troops to the table.
Storing
- To store leftover salmon, let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container or wrapping tightly in foil.
- It can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat using the air fryer function on the Ninja Foodi for a few minutes until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I cook frozen salmon in the Ninja Foodi?
Not for this recipe. The outside will overcook before the center is fully thawed. You can usually thaw salmon in under an hour by putting it in a plastic bag and submerging it in water.
Do I need foil or parchment?
I don't recommend using foil in an air fryer. I haven't had an issue with salmon sticking when cooking skin side down, so I haven't found a need for parchment paper. But if you want to use a parchment air fryer liner, you can.
Should I flip salmon in the air fryer?
Leave it skin side down the whole time. Fish is tender and prone to breaking, and I don't like to risk it. If you'd rather not eat the skin, slide a spatula between the skin and the flesh after cooking, and it lifts right off.
Ninja Air Fryer Salmon Fillets
Equipment
- Ninja Foodi
Ingredients
- 16 ounces salmon fillets use fresh or thawed frozen salmon fillets
- 1 teaspoon lemon pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- 2 tablespoons butter melted
- For garnish: lemons and fresh parsley
Instructions
- Pat the salmon filets dry.
- In a small bowl, stir the lemon pepper, garlic powder, and salt together.
- Brush the salmon with the butter, and sprinkle with the seasoning mixture.
- Preheat your Ninja Foodi to 390° F on the air crisp mode. Arrange the salmon filets skin side down.
- Cook for 8 minutes.
- Remove from your air fryer, an allow to rest for 5 minute before serving.
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