Summer is the perfect time to gather friends and family for outdoor meals, but sometimes indoor grilling or roasting is more practical. The Ninja Foodi Air Fryer with Smart Cook Thermometer makes it easy to prepare perfectly cooked chicken right in your kitchen, mimicking the delicious char of grilling.
Follow this step-by-step guide to get succulent grilled chicken, using the air fryer’s versatile features and precise temperature control for a foolproof summer recipe.
Our top pick at a glance
Ninja Foodi Air Fryer w/ Smart Cook Thermometer
- ✔ Power: 1800W
- ✔ Dimensions: 17 x 14 x 15 inches
- ✔ Weight: 22 pounds
Preparing the Chicken
Start with fresh or thawed chicken pieces—thighs, breasts, or drumsticks all work well. Pat them dry with paper towels to ensure even browning. Season generously with your favorite herbs, spices, and a touch of olive oil for added flavor and crispness.
For best results, let the seasoned chicken sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before cooking. This helps it cook evenly and stay juicy inside.
Cooking with the Ninja Foodi Air Fryer
Place the chicken pieces into the dual baskets of the Ninja Foodi Air Fryer, ensuring they are not overcrowded for proper air circulation. Select the ‘Air Fry’ function and set the temperature to 375°F (190°C).
Insert the Smart Cook Thermometer into the thickest part of one chicken piece. Use the app or the device’s display to monitor internal temperature in real time. Cook until the thermometer reads 165°F (74°C), which is the safe and ideal temperature for poultry.
The Ninja Foodi’s DualZone™ Match Cook feature can be used to cook different types of chicken or sides simultaneously, saving time and effort.
Resting and Serving
Once the chicken reaches the target temperature, carefully remove it from the air fryer and let it rest for 5 minutes. Resting allows juices to redistribute, ensuring tender, moist meat.
Serve your perfectly cooked chicken with fresh summer salads, grilled vegetables, or your favorite dipping sauces. The crispy exterior combined with juicy interior makes it a hit for any summer gathering.
Tips for Best Results
- Always preheat the air fryer for even cooking.
- Use the Smart Cook Thermometer for precise temperature tracking—avoid guesswork.
- Adjust seasoning and herbs to match your summer flavors.
- For extra crispiness, lightly spray the chicken with cooking oil before air frying.
- Utilize the Dehydrate function for summer snacks like jerky or dried fruit to complement your meals.
More Details on Our Top Picks
Ninja Foodi Air Fryer w/ Smart Cook Thermometer
The Ninja Foodi Air Fryer with Smart Cook Thermometer simplifies summer cooking with precise temperature control and versatile functions. It produces juicy, crispy chicken perfect for outdoor-inspired meals indoors.
Pros:
- Precise temperature monitoring
- Multiple cooking functions in one device
- Large 10 Qt capacity for family meals
- DualZone™ Match Cook for simultaneous dishes
Cons:
- Requires some space on countertop
- Learning curve for new users
- Can be noisy during operation
Best for: Home cooks wanting quick, reliable summer chicken recipes
Not ideal for: Those without enough kitchen space or looking solely for traditional grilling
Bottom line: A versatile, easy-to-use air fryer perfect for summer chicken recipes with precise cooking control.
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