Summer is the perfect time to enjoy grilled dishes, but sometimes outdoor grilling isn’t feasible. The Ninja Foodi Air Fryer with Smart Thermometer offers a fantastic indoor alternative for delicious, evenly cooked summer favorites like chicken skewers.
With its 6-in-1 functionality and dual-zone technology, you can achieve restaurant-quality results right in your kitchen—no smoky grill required. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making flavorful chicken skewers using this versatile appliance.
Our top pick at a glance
Ninja Foodi Air Fryer w/ Smart Cook Thermometer
- ✔ Dimensions: 16 x 14 x 14 inches
- ✔ Weight: 22 pounds
- ✔ Power: 1800W
Ninja DZ550 Foodi 10 Quart 6-in-1 DualZone Smart XL Air Fryer with 2 Independent Baskets, Cook Thermometer for Perfect Doneness, Match and 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
- 6-in-1 Functionality: Air fry, broil, roast, bake, reheat, dehydrate
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Preparing the Chicken and Skewers
Start by selecting fresh chicken breasts or thighs. Cut the chicken into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking. Marinate the chicken in your favorite summer-inspired marinade—think lemon, garlic, herbs, and a touch of honey—for at least 30 minutes to enhance flavor.
While the chicken marinates, soak wooden skewers in water for about 10-15 minutes to prevent burning. Alternatively, use metal skewers for a hassle-free experience.
Setting Up Your Ninja Foodi Air Fryer
Place the chicken skewers into one of the Air Fryer’s baskets, arranging them in a single layer without overcrowding. Use the DualZone™ Match Cook feature to set both baskets to the same temperature—typically 375°F for chicken.
Insert the Smart Cook Thermometer probe into the thickest part of a chicken piece to monitor internal temperature during cooking. This ensures perfect doneness without overcooking.
Cooking and Monitoring
Activate the Air Fry function and set the timer for 12-15 minutes, depending on skewer thickness. The Smart Thermometer will monitor the internal temperature, alerting you when the chicken reaches 165°F—safe and juicy.
Use the Smart Finish feature for consistent results, and flip the skewers halfway through for even cooking if needed. The dual-zone setup allows you to cook multiple batches or different foods simultaneously, perfect for summer meal prep.
Serving Tips and Variations
Once cooked, remove the skewers and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve with grilled vegetables, fresh herbs, or a summer salad. For extra flavor, brush the skewers with a garlic herb butter or barbecue sauce before serving.
Experiment with different marinades like pineapple teriyaki or Mediterranean herbs for variety. These skewers are also great for indoor summer parties or quick weeknight dinners.
More Details on Our Top Picks
Ninja Foodi Air Fryer w/ Smart Cook Thermometer
The Ninja Foodi Air Fryer with Smart Thermometer simplifies summer grilling indoors, delivering juicy, evenly cooked chicken with minimal fuss. Its smart features make it easy to achieve restaurant-quality results every time.
Pros:
- Precise temperature control with Smart Thermometer
- DualZone™ Match Cook for simultaneous cooking
- Multiple cooking functions in one appliance
- Large 10 Qt capacity
Cons:
- Learning curve for new users
- Requires marinating for best flavor
- Price may be higher than basic air fryers
Best for: Home cooks wanting easy, summer-friendly indoor grilling
Not ideal for: Those seeking a dedicated outdoor grill
Bottom line: A versatile, smart appliance perfect for summer indoor cooking adventures.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability are accurate as of the time of publishing.
