Summer is the perfect time to enjoy outdoor flavors, but you can achieve that delicious grilled taste indoors with the Ninja Foodi Air Fryer. Its versatile 6-in-1 functionality, combined with the Smart Cook Thermometer, makes cooking summer favorites effortless and precise.
Follow this simple recipe to prepare tender, flavorful grilled chicken that’s perfectly cooked every time, even without a grill. Let’s dive into the step-by-step process to bring summer into your kitchen.
Our top pick at a glance
Ninja Foodi Air Fryer w/ Smart Cook Thermometer
- ✔ Dimensions: 14 x 14 x 13 inches
- ✔ Weight: 22 pounds
- ✔ Power: 1760 watts
Ninja DZ550 Foodi 10 Quart 6-in-1 DualZone Smart XL Air Fryer with 2 Independent Baskets, Smart Cook Thermometer for Perfect Doneness, Match Cook and Smart Finish to Roast, Dehydrate and More, Black
- Smart Cook System: Achieve perfect doneness with Foodi Thermometer
- DualZone Technology: Cook two foods simultaneously or copy settings
- Large Capacity: 10-quart capacity for whole meals
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Prepping the Chicken
Start with fresh chicken breasts or thighs. Pat them dry with paper towels and season generously with your favorite herbs and spices. For a classic summer flavor, try a mix of garlic powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and a splash of lemon juice.
Insert the Smart Cook Thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken, ensuring it’s properly positioned for accurate temperature readings.
Setting Up the Ninja Foodi Air Fryer
Place the seasoned chicken into one of the dual independent baskets of the Ninja Foodi Air Fryer. Select the ‘Air Fry’ function and set the temperature to 375°F. Use the Smart Finish feature to monitor the internal temperature remotely through the thermometer app.
Ensure the baskets are properly positioned and the lid is securely closed before starting.
Cooking and Monitoring
Begin cooking and keep an eye on the Smart Thermometer app. The goal is to reach an internal temperature of 165°F for safe and juicy chicken. The Ninja Foodi’s dual-zone match cook allows you to cook different items simultaneously, ideal for side dishes like vegetables or fries.
Adjust cook time if needed, based on the thermometer’s readings. The Ninja’s Smart Finish feature will notify you when the chicken is perfectly cooked.
Finishing Up and Tips
Once the chicken hits 165°F, carefully remove it from the air fryer and let it rest for 5 minutes. This helps retain juices for maximum flavor. Serve your summer-inspired grilled chicken with fresh salads or grilled vegetables.
For extra flavor, brush the chicken with a little BBQ sauce or herb butter before serving. Always use the Smart Thermometer for precise results, especially when cooking multiple items.
More Details on Our Top Picks
Ninja Foodi Air Fryer w/ Smart Cook Thermometer
The Ninja Foodi Air Fryer with Smart Thermometer offers a foolproof way to enjoy summer grilled chicken indoors. Its versatile features and smart monitoring make cooking simple and consistent.
Pros:
- Easy to use with precise temperature control
- DualZone™ match cook for multi-tasking
- Large 10 Qt capacity for family-sized meals
- Versatile 6-in-1 functions
Cons:
- Takes up counter space
- Learning curve for new users
- Smart Thermometer app may require setup
Best for: Home cooks wanting summer grilled flavor without outdoor grills
Not ideal for: Those preferring traditional outdoor grilling or small kitchens
Bottom line: A versatile, tech-savvy way to enjoy summer-inspired meals indoors with perfect doneness.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability are accurate as of the time of publishing.
