Summer is the perfect time to enjoy outdoor meals, but sometimes, a quick and easy indoor alternative is just what you need. The Ninja DoubleStack XL Smart Air Fryer makes it simple to prepare crispy, flavorful chicken that rivals outdoor grilling—without the smoke or mess.
This versatile appliance allows you to cook multiple components at once, making it ideal for a family feast or a summer gathering. Follow this step-by-step guide to create delicious, summer-inspired grilled chicken in your kitchen.
Our top pick at a glance
Ninja DoubleStack XL Smart Air Fryer
- ✔ Weight: 14 lbs
- ✔ Power: 1800W
- ✔ Color: Stainless Steel
Ninja DoubleStack XL Smart Air Fryer, 2-Basket, 10 QT, 6-in-1, DoubleStack Technology Cooks 4 Foods at Once, Space Saving Design, Air Fry, Broil, Bake SL451
SPACE SAVING DESIGN: Ninja’s stacked design lets you cook double the food in nearly half the space and...
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Preparing the Chicken
Start by selecting your favorite chicken parts—thighs, drumsticks, or breasts work well. Pat them dry with paper towels to ensure crispiness, then season generously with your preferred spices, such as paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, and a touch of salt. For extra flavor, you can marinate the chicken for an hour before cooking.
Setting Up the Air Fryer
Place the crisper plates inside each of the two baskets of the Ninja DoubleStack XL. Arrange the seasoned chicken pieces on the crisper plates, ensuring they’re not overcrowded for even cooking. Use the independent control settings to select the appropriate temperature—around 375°F is ideal for crispy, juicy chicken.
Utilize the smart doneness control with the built-in thermometer to monitor the internal temperature, ensuring your chicken reaches a safe 165°F for poultry.
Cooking the Chicken
Start the air frying process and cook the chicken for about 25-30 minutes. The Ninja’s space-saving design allows you to cook two different types of food simultaneously—so if you’re preparing sides like grilled veggies or summer corn on the cob, place them in the second basket with their own settings.
Halfway through, flip or rotate the chicken to promote even crisping. Use the smart features to check doneness without opening the baskets, maintaining consistent heat and crunch.
Serving Tips
Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes. Serve hot with fresh summer sides—think watermelon salad, grilled vegetables, or a tangy dipping sauce. The crispy skin combined with tender meat makes this a perfect summer dish that’s easy to prepare indoors.
More Details on Our Top Picks
Ninja DoubleStack XL Smart Air Fryer
The Ninja DoubleStack XL Air Fryer simplifies summer cooking with its space-efficient design and versatile functions. It’s ideal for preparing family-sized, crispy chicken without outdoor grilling or excess fat.
Pros:
- Cooks two different foods simultaneously
- Space-saving, fits under standard cabinets
- Smart doneness control improves results
- Versatile 6-in-1 functions
Cons:
- Setup can be complex with multiple components
- Bulky for very small kitchens
- Higher price compared to basic models
Best for: Families and outdoor enthusiasts who want quick, crispy summer meals indoors
Not ideal for: Those with very limited kitchen space or on a tight budget
Bottom line: A versatile, space-efficient air fryer perfect for quick summer indoor meals
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability are accurate as of the time of publishing.
