Summer is the perfect time to enjoy outdoor-inspired dishes, but sometimes the weather doesn’t cooperate for grilling outside. Luckily, the Ninja Foodi 10-in-1 Smart XL Air Fry Oven can help you achieve that smoky, crispy chicken flavor right in your kitchen.
This step-by-step guide shows you how to make juicy, tender grilled chicken with a crispy exterior using your Ninja Foodi, perfect for summer family dinners or weekend barbecues indoors.
Our top pick at a glance
Ninja Foodi 10-in-1 Smart XL Air Fry Oven
- ✔ Cord Length: 36 inches
- ✔ Color: Silver
- ✔ Dimensions: Standard countertop size
Ninja DT251 Foodi 10-in-1 Smart XL Air Fry Oven, Bake, Broil, Toast, Roast, Digital Toaster, Thermometer, True Surround Convection up to 450°F, includes 6 trays & Recipe Guide, Silver
TRUE SURROUND CONVECTION: Up to 10X the convection power vs. a traditional full-size convection oven for faster, crispier,...
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Preparing the Chicken
Start with fresh or thawed chicken pieces—thighs, breasts, or drumsticks work well. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve a crispy skin.
Season the chicken generously with your favorite herbs and spices. A simple mix of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika adds a smoky flavor that complements the air frying process.
Setting Up Your Ninja Foodi
Place the included Air fry basket inside the oven and arrange the chicken pieces in a single layer to ensure even cooking. For larger cuts like a 5-lb chicken, use the Roast Tray for optimal airflow.
Select the Air Fry function on the Smart XL Air Oven and set the temperature to 400°F. Use the Smart Thermometer for precise internal temperature monitoring—insert it into the thickest part of the chicken.
Cooking the Chicken
Preheat the oven for about 90 seconds. Once preheated, start the air frying process. The Ninja Foodi’s True Surround Convection will circulate hot air around the chicken, cooking it up to 30% faster than traditional methods.
Cook the chicken for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. Use the Smart Thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safe, juicy results.
Finishing and Serving
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. This helps retain juices and enhances flavor.
Serve your crispy, tender grilled chicken with summer sides like fresh salads, grilled vegetables, or corn on the cob for a complete meal.
Tips for Perfect Summer Chicken
- Use a light oil spray on the chicken for extra crispiness.
- Marinate the chicken beforehand for added flavor.
- Adjust the cooking time based on the size and thickness of your chicken pieces.
More Details on Our Top Picks
Ninja Foodi 10-in-1 Smart XL Air Fry Oven
This recipe leverages the Ninja Foodi 10-in-1 Air Fry Oven’s versatility and smart features to deliver perfectly cooked, crispy chicken indoors. It’s ideal for busy summer days when grilling outside isn’t an option.
Pros:
- Fast preheat and cooking times
- Large capacity for family meals
- Multiple cooking functions in one appliance
- Smart Thermometer for perfect doneness
Cons:
- Bulky for small kitchens
- Complex controls may require a learning curve
- Higher power consumption
Best for: Families and home chefs wanting quick, crispy chicken indoors during summer
Not ideal for: Small kitchens or those seeking a simple, basic oven
Bottom line: A versatile, fast, and smart way to enjoy summer-style crispy chicken indoors.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability are accurate as of the time of publishing.
