ninja foodi chicken recipes
Discover the best ninja foodi chicken recipes, Enjoy juicy, crispy chicken with easy step-by-step instructions, and delicious serving ideas.
Ingredients
Chicken (Whole, Breasts, Thighs, or Drumsticks)
- The star of the show is of course, the chicken! You can use a variety of cuts depending on your preference. For juicy and tender results, chicken thighs or drumsticks work wonderfully, especially when pressure cooked. Chicken breasts are perfect if you want a leaner option, but make sure not to overcook them to maintain their moisture.
Cooking Oil or Spray
- While the Ninja Foodi can cook without oil a light spray of cooking oil or a drizzle of olive oil will help achieve that crisp, golden exterior, especially when air frying. Choose oils like avocado or olive oil for healthier options that add flavor without overwhelming the dish.
Chicken Seasoning or Marinade
- Seasoning is essential to infuse your chicken with the rich flavors you crave. You can either use pre-made chicken seasoning or create your own. A mix of garlic powder paprika, salt, black pepper, and onion powder is a great starting point for a well-rounded flavor profile. If you prefer marinating, let your chicken soak in a marinade for at least 30 minutes before cooking to allow the flavors to penetrate deeply.
Fresh Herbs and Spices
- Herbs like thyme rosemary, and parsley bring freshness and depth to the dish. Fresh garlic or shallots can also enhance the flavor. Dried herbs work well too, but fresh ingredients give a brighter taste and add a lovely aroma during the cooking process.
Broth or Liquid (for Pressure Cooking)
- For pressure cooking chicken in the Ninja Foodi you’ll need a liquid to create steam. Chicken broth, vegetable broth, or even water will work, but using broth adds an extra layer of richness. A splash of white wine or lemon juice can also give your dish a nice tang and depth.
Vegetables (Optional for Added Flavor)
- Adding vegetables to your chicken recipe not only enhances the flavor but also makes the dish more nutritious. Carrots onions, bell peppers, and potatoes are great additions that can be pressure-cooked along with the chicken, absorbing the juices and spices to create a one-pot meal. You can also roast vegetables separately using the air fryer function for a crisp texture.
Optional Toppings
- If you're looking to add a finishing touch consider some optional toppings. Fresh chopped herbs like cilantro or parsley, a squeeze of lemon for a fresh pop, or a dash of hot sauce or your favorite BBQ sauce can add an exciting contrast to the dish.
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken
- Before you begin, ensure your chicken is fully thawed and pat it dry with paper towels. This step helps the seasoning stick and promotes a crispy texture when cooking. If you're marinating the chicken, make sure it has had enough time to absorb all the flavors, at least 30 minutes for best results.
Season the Chicken
- Generously season your chicken with your chosen blend of spices or a marinade. Make sure to cover all sides for even flavor. If you’re using a dry seasoning, rub it into the skin or meat. For marinades, allow the chicken to sit in the mixture for at least 30 minutes to an hour.
Add Liquid (If Pressure Cooking)
- If you're using the pressure cooking function, add the required liquid. Pour in chicken broth or your choice of liquid (water, vegetable broth, or even a splash of wine). This liquid creates the steam necessary for pressure cooking and keeps your chicken moist.
Set Up the Ninja Foodi
- Place the chicken in the Ninja Foodi basket or on the rack, depending on the cut you're using. If you're cooking a whole chicken or large pieces, it's best to use the rack to elevate it, ensuring even cooking. Ensure the lid is securely locked, and set the Foodi to the appropriate cooking method.
Pressure Cook the Chicken
- For juicy, tender chicken, set the Ninja Foodi to the Pressure Cook function. Adjust the cooking time based on the size and type of chicken you're using:
- Chicken Breasts: 6-8 minutes on high pressure
- Chicken Thighs or Drumsticks: 10-12 minutes on high pressure
- Whole Chicken: 25-30 minutes on high pressure (depending on size)
- Once the timer goes off, perform a quick release of the pressure by turning the valve to venting. Be cautious of the steam when doing this.
Crisp the Chicken (Optional)
- If you love crispy skin or a crunchy exterior, use the Air Crisp function to finish off your chicken. Simply add a light layer of oil or spray the chicken with a non-stick cooking spray for a golden finish. Set the Ninja Foodi to air crisp at 400°F for 5-10 minutes, flipping halfway through. Watch carefully as the skin crisps up nicely.
Check for Doneness
- Always check that the chicken has reached the recommended internal temperature. For chicken breasts, it should be 165°F (74°C). For thighs and drumsticks, the internal temperature should also reach 165°F (74°C). If you’re unsure, insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the meat to be sure.
Rest the Chicken
- Once your chicken is done cooking, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing or serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping your chicken tender and flavorful.
Serve and Enjoy!
- Now that your Ninja Foodi chicken is cooked to perfection, it’s time to serve! Whether you’re making a full meal or just adding a crispy protein to a salad, enjoy the juicy, flavorful results of your hard work.
Notes
Nutrition Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 320
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 680mg