Summer is the perfect time to fire up the grill, but sometimes indoor cooking with an air fryer is a convenient alternative, especially when the weather isn’t cooperating. The Ninja Foodi Air Fryer with Smart Cook Thermometer offers a versatile and easy way to prepare delicious summer-inspired dishes right in your kitchen.
In this guide, we’ll show you how to make perfectly cooked chicken skewers that are tender on the inside and crispy on the outside, using the Ninja Foodi’s multiple cooking functions and smart thermometer to get everything just right.
Our top pick at a glance
Ninja Foodi Air Fryer w/ Smart Cook Thermometer
- ✔ Weight: 22 lbs
- ✔ Power: 1800W
- ✔ Warranty: 1 Year
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 the perfect doneness, from rare to well-done, at the touch of a button with...
As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.
Preparing the Chicken and Marinade
Start with fresh chicken breasts or thighs. Cut the chicken into evenly sized cubes, about 1 to 1.5 inches, for uniform cooking. Prepare a marinade using your favorite summer flavors—think lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, herbs like thyme or rosemary, salt, and pepper. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes to absorb the flavors, making the skewers extra juicy and flavorful.
Assembling and Cooking the Skewers
Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto metal or soaked wooden skewers, alternating with vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes for added color and flavor. Preheat your Ninja Foodi Air Fryer using the Air Fry function. Place the skewers in the dual baskets, making sure they are not overcrowded to ensure even cooking.
Set the Smart Cook Thermometer to the recommended temperature of 165°F for chicken. Use the Ninja Foodi’s Match Cook & Smart Finish features to monitor the internal temperature, adjusting time as needed for perfectly cooked chicken. Typically, cook for about 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispiness.
Finishing Touches and Serving
Once the chicken reaches 165°F, remove the skewers and let them rest for a few minutes. This step helps retain juiciness. Serve the skewers hot with a side of fresh salad, summer corn, or your favorite dipping sauces. The Ninja Foodi makes cleanup easy thanks to its non-stick surfaces and compact design.
Enjoy your homemade, perfectly cooked summer chicken skewers that taste just like outdoor grilling—without leaving your kitchen!
Tips for Perfect Summer Skewers
- Use uniform-sized pieces for even cooking.
- Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes beforehand to prevent burning.
- Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes for maximum flavor.
- Monitor internal temperature with the Smart Cook Thermometer for best results.
- Pair with fresh summer sides like salads or grilled veggies.
More Details on Our Top Picks
Ninja Foodi Air Fryer w/ Smart Cook Thermometer
This versatile air fryer with Smart Cook Thermometer simplifies summer grilling by delivering perfectly cooked, juicy chicken skewers every time. Its multiple functions and smart features make it a must-have for quick, delicious meals.
Pros:
- Precise temperature control
- Multiple cooking functions
- Large 10 Qt capacity
- Easy cleanup
Cons:
- Learning curve for new users
- Longer marination process
- Requires space on countertop
Best for: Home cooks wanting quick, grilled-style meals indoors
Not ideal for: Those preferring traditional outdoor grilling or small kitchens
Bottom line: A versatile, smart air fryer perfect for delicious summer skewers and more.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability are accurate as of the time of publishing.
