Summer is the perfect time to enjoy outdoor-inspired meals indoors, especially when you want the crispness of grilled chicken without firing up the grill. The Ninja Foodi Air Fryer with Smart Cook Thermometer makes it easy to achieve perfectly cooked, juicy chicken every time, right in your kitchen.
Follow this step-by-step guide to prepare a delicious summer-inspired grilled chicken using your Ninja Foodi, ensuring tender, flavorful results with minimal fuss.
Our top pick at a glance

Ninja Foodi Air Fryer w/ Smart Cook Thermometer
- ✔ Dimensions: Approx. 14 x 14 x 12 inches
- ✔ Weight: Approximately 20 lbs
- ✔ Power: 1700W

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
- 6-in-1 Functionality: Air fry, broil, roast, bake, reheat, dehydrate
As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.
Preparing the Chicken
Start by selecting fresh chicken breasts or thighs. Pat them dry with paper towels and season generously with your favorite herbs and spices, such as garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. For extra flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes before cooking, or simply season and proceed.
Setting Up Your Ninja Foodi Air Fryer
Place the seasoned chicken into the Air Fryer’s Basket, ensuring they are spread out evenly. Attach the Smart Cook Thermometer to monitor internal temperature accurately. Select the ‘Air Fry’ function and set the temperature to 375°F (190°C). Using the DualZone™ Match Cook feature, you can cook multiple pieces simultaneously with consistent results, perfect for summer family meals.
Cooking with Precision
Start the air frying process and keep an eye on the Smart Thermometer. The goal is to reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety and juiciness. The Ninja Foodi’s Smart Finish feature will alert you when the chicken is perfectly cooked, so you can relax and enjoy the summer day.
Serving and Tips
Once cooked, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute. Serve with fresh summer sides like grilled vegetables, corn on the cob, or a light salad. For extra flavor, brush with a summer-inspired marinade or BBQ sauce before serving.
Tip: Use the dehydrate function to prepare summer snacks like dried fruit or jerky as refreshing summer treats.
More Details on Our Top Picks
Ninja Foodi Air Fryer w/ Smart Cook Thermometer

The Ninja Foodi Air Fryer with Smart Thermometer simplifies summer cooking with precise, even results. Its multi-functionality makes it a versatile kitchen helper for your warm weather meals.
Pros:
- Precise temperature control
- Multi-function 6-in-1 capabilities
- Large 10 Qt XL capacity
- Easy to use with smart features
Cons:
- Takes up countertop space
- Learning curve for new users
- Price point may be higher
Best for: Home cooks wanting quick, reliable summer recipes
Not ideal for: Those seeking traditional grilling or outdoor cooking
Bottom line: A versatile, smart air fryer that makes summer cooking simple and delicious.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability are accurate as of the time of publishing.