Summer grilling is a classic, but sometimes you want that crispy, grilled flavor without firing up the barbecue. The Ninja Foodi XL Pro Air Oven offers a versatile, quick alternative for preparing delicious summer chicken skewers right on your countertop.
This guide walks you through a simple, flavorful recipe to make crispy, juicy chicken skewers that are perfect for sharing at your next backyard gathering or family dinner.
Our top pick at a glance
Ninja Foodi XL Pro Air Oven
- ✔ Size: 12-inch capacity
- ✔ Color: Black
- ✔ Model: B0CC6H1957
Ninja DT202BK Foodi 8-in-1 XL Pro Air Fry Oven, Large Countertop Convection and Digital Toaster Oven, 1800 Watts, Black, 12 in.
TRUE SURROUND CONVENTION: Up to 10X the convection power vs. a traditional full-size convection oven for faster, crispier,...
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Preparing the Chicken and Marinade
Start by cutting boneless, skinless chicken breasts into 1-inch cubes. For extra flavor, prepare a marinade using your favorite herbs and spices, such as garlic, paprika, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to infuse it with flavor and keep it moist during cooking.
While the chicken marinates, soak wooden skewers in water for 10 minutes to prevent burning. Alternatively, use metal skewers for hassle-free grilling.
Assembling and Seasoning the Skewers
Thread the marinated chicken cubes onto the skewers, leaving a small space between pieces for even cooking. Brush the assembled skewers lightly with oil to help achieve a crisp exterior.
Sprinkle with additional herbs or spices if desired, then preheat your Ninja Foodi XL Pro Air Oven to 375°F using the Air Roast or Bake function.
Cooking the Chicken Skewers in the Ninja Foodi XL Pro Air Oven
Place the skewers on the oven’s wire rack or tray, ensuring they are not overcrowded for optimal air circulation. Set the oven to 375°F using the Air Roast function, which delivers even, crispy results.
Cook the skewers for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and is golden brown and crispy on the outside.
For extra crispiness, you can switch to the Broil function for the last 2 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
Serving Tips and Variations
Serve the skewers hot with a refreshing summer salad, grilled vegetables, or your favorite dipping sauce. For added flavor, sprinkle with chopped herbs like parsley or cilantro before serving.
For a different twist, try marinating the chicken in teriyaki sauce or lemon herb marinade, and add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini between the chicken pieces on the skewers.
More Details on Our Top Picks
Ninja Foodi XL Pro Air Oven
The Ninja Foodi XL Pro Air Oven makes summer grilling easier with its versatile functions and large capacity. It delivers crispy, even results without the need for outdoor grilling, ideal for busy summer days.
Pros:
- Fast preheat and cooking times
- Large capacity for family-sized meals
- Multiple cooking functions in one appliance
- Crispier and more even results than traditional ovens
Cons:
- Bulky size requires ample counter space
- Complex controls may have a learning curve
- Higher price compared to basic toaster ovens
Best for: Families and home cooks seeking quick, crispy summer meals without outdoor grilling
Not ideal for: Small kitchens with limited counter space or those on a tight budget
Bottom line: A versatile countertop oven that’s perfect for quick, crispy summer dishes.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability are accurate as of the time of publishing.
