Summer is the perfect time for outdoor gatherings and delicious grilled meals. The Ninja Foodi Smart XL Air Fry Oven offers a versatile, convenient way to prepare crispy, flavorful chicken right on your countertop, making outdoor-inspired dining effortless.
This guide walks you through using your Ninja Foodi Smart XL Air Fry Oven to achieve perfectly grilled chicken, ideal for summer cookouts or a quick family dinner.
Our top pick at a glance
Ninja Foodi Smart XL Air Fry Oven
- ✔ Weight: 22 lbs
- ✔ Dimensions: 20 x 18 x 12 inches
- ✔ Material: Stainless steel and plastic
Preparing Your Chicken for the Grill
Begin with fresh or thawed chicken, such as bone-in breasts, thighs, or even a whole chicken. For even cooking and enhanced flavor, marinate your chicken for at least 30 minutes or season it with your favorite herbs and spices.
Ensure the chicken is patted dry before cooking to promote crispiness and prevent steaming. Preheat your Ninja Foodi Smart XL Air Fry Oven to 375°F using the Air Roast setting, which is ideal for grilling.
Using the Ninja Foodi for Perfect Grilled Chicken
- Set the oven to ‘Air Roast’ mode at 375°F. The preheat takes approximately 90 seconds.
- Place the chicken on the wire rack or baking tray inside the oven, ensuring there’s space for air circulation.
- Cook the chicken for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crisping. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F.
- If needed, increase the time slightly for larger cuts or until the desired doneness is achieved.
Tips for the Best Summer Chicken
- Use the ‘Dehydrate’ function to create a crispy skin or to dry herbs for seasoning.
- For extra flavor, baste the chicken with barbecue sauce or marinade during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving to retain juices.
- Pair with fresh summer salads or grilled vegetables for a complete outdoor meal.
Cleanup and Storage
Once cooled, wash the baking tray and wire rack with warm, soapy water. The Ninja Foodi’s large capacity makes it easy to fit all parts for quick cleanup. Store leftovers in airtight containers and reheat using the ‘Reheat’ function for a fresh-tasting meal later.
More Details on Our Top Picks
Ninja Foodi Smart XL Air Fry Oven
The Ninja Foodi Smart XL Air Fry Oven combines multiple cooking functions with impressive convection power, making summer grilling and meal prep simple and efficient. Its large capacity fits family-sized portions, ideal for outdoor gatherings.
Pros:
- Powerful convection for crispy results
- Large capacity ideal for family meals
- Multi-function versatility
Cons:
- Bulky for small kitchens
- Complex interface for some users
- Higher price point
Best for: Home cooks wanting easy, crispy summer chicken without firing up the outdoor grill
Not ideal for: Small kitchens or those seeking a simple, basic oven
Bottom line: A versatile and powerful countertop oven perfect for crispy summer chicken and beyond.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability are accurate as of the time of publishing.
