Summer is the perfect time to fire up the grill, but sometimes indoor cooking with an air fryer can be just as satisfying — especially for quick, delicious meals. The Ninja Foodi Air Fryer with Smart Cook Thermometer makes it easy to prepare perfectly cooked chicken skewers right in your kitchen, with less fuss and mess.
Follow this step-by-step guide to create juicy, flavorful chicken skewers that are ideal for summer gatherings, light dinners, or picnic prep. The air fryer’s dual baskets and smart features ensure even cooking and perfect results every time.
Our top pick at a glance
Ninja Foodi Air Fryer w/ Smart Cook Thermometer
- ✔ Power: 1800W
- ✔ Dimensions: 16 x 14 x 13 inches
- ✔ Weight: 22 pounds
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
- Large Capacity: 10-quart capacity with two independent baskets
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Preparing the Chicken and Marinade
Start by choosing fresh chicken breasts or thighs. Cut the chicken into uniform cubes to ensure even cooking. For a flavorful marinade, combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss the chicken pieces thoroughly to coat them evenly. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes in the fridge to enhance flavor and tenderness.
Assembling the Skewers
Once marinated, thread the chicken pieces onto metal or soaked wooden skewers. Alternate with vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or zucchini for added flavor and color. This not only makes the skewers visually appealing but also enhances the summer vibe.
Cooking with the Ninja Foodi Air Fryer
Place the assembled skewers into the Air Fryer’s baskets, ensuring they are not overcrowded for optimal air circulation. Set the Ninja Foodi to ‘Air Fry’ mode at 400°F. Insert the Smart Cook Thermometer probe into the thickest part of a chicken piece to monitor internal temperature. Use the DualZone™ Match Cook feature to cook two batches simultaneously if needed.
Cook for about 12-15 minutes, checking the thermometer periodically. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. The smart thermometer will alert you once the perfect temperature is achieved, ensuring juicy, safe-to-eat results.
Serving Tips and Variations
Remove the skewers carefully and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for extra freshness. Serve your chicken skewers with summer sides like grilled corn, a light salad, or crispy potato wedges. For added flavor, brush with a little barbecue sauce or a squeeze of lemon before serving.
For variety, try different marinades such as Mediterranean herbs or spicy jerk seasonings. The Ninja Foodi’s versatile features also allow you to roast or bake the skewers if preferred.
More Details on Our Top Picks
Ninja Foodi Air Fryer w/ Smart Cook Thermometer
The Ninja Foodi Air Fryer with Smart Cook Thermometer simplifies summer cooking, delivering juicy, flavorful chicken skewers with minimal effort. Its smart features and dual baskets make it a versatile kitchen helper for all your outdoor-inspired meals.
Pros:
- Precise temperature control with smart thermometer
- DualZone™ Match Cook for simultaneous batches
- Versatile 6-in-1 cooking functions
- Large 10 Qt capacity
Cons:
- Requires some prep and marinating time
- Can be bulky on countertop
- Price may be higher than basic air fryers
Best for: Home cooks who want juicy, perfectly cooked summer skewers with minimal fuss
Not ideal for: Those looking for a simple, basic air fryer without smart features
Bottom line: A versatile air fryer that makes summer grilling easy and precise indoors.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability are accurate as of the time of publishing.
