Summer is the perfect time to enjoy delicious, crispy chicken without the guilt of deep frying. The Ninja DoubleStack XL Smart Air Fryer makes it easy to create perfectly cooked chicken dishes that are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, all while using less fat.
With its space-saving design and versatile cooking functions, this air fryer is a summer kitchen essential for busy families. Let’s walk through a simple, step-by-step recipe to get you started on a crispy chicken feast for your next summer gathering.
Our top pick at a glance
Ninja DoubleStack XL Smart Air Fryer
- ✔ Weight: Approx. 22 lbs
- ✔ Color: Black/Silver
- ✔ Power: 1800W
Ninja DoubleStack XL Smart Air Fryer, 10 Qt, 6-in-1, Grey, SL451
- Space Saving Design: Fits under standard cabinets, 40% slimmer
- Smart Cook System: Precise doneness with Foodi Smart Thermometer
- DoubleStack Technology: Cook 4 foods simultaneously with 2 baskets
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Preparing the Chicken
Start by choosing your preferred cut—boneless breasts, drumsticks, or thighs work great. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to ensure crispiness. Season generously with your favorite spices, such as paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. For extra flavor, you can marinate the chicken for 30 minutes before cooking.
Preheat your Ninja DoubleStack XL Air Fryer to 400°F using the Air Fry function. While it preheats, set up your breading station if you prefer a crispy crust: whisk some eggs in one bowl and prepare a mixture of panko breadcrumbs and seasonings in another. Dip the chicken pieces into the egg wash, then coat with breadcrumbs.
Cooking the Chicken
Place the breaded chicken pieces into one of the baskets. Use the second basket for side items like vegetables or fries if desired. Insert both baskets into the air fryer, activating the independent control settings for each basket if needed.
Cook the chicken at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. Use the smart thermometer included with your Ninja DoubleStack XL to check for doneness—internal temperature should reach 165°F for safe consumption. The appliance’s doneness control helps you achieve perfectly crispy results every time.
Serving and Tips
Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Use the included meal racks to keep the chicken warm while finishing up side dishes. For an extra crispy finish, you can give the chicken a quick blast of additional time if needed.
For best results, avoid overcrowding the baskets to ensure even air circulation. Experiment with different seasonings and coatings to create your summer signature dish. Remember, the DoubleStack’s space-saving design makes it easy to prepare a full meal in one go, perfect for summer gatherings.
More Details on Our Top Picks
Ninja DoubleStack XL Smart Air Fryer
The Ninja DoubleStack XL Smart Air Fryer simplifies summer cooking with its spacious, versatile design. It’s ideal for preparing family-sized, crispy chicken dishes with less fat and maximum flavor, making your summer meals both easy and delicious.
Pros:
- Space-saving stacked design
- Cooks multiple foods simultaneously
- Versatile 6-in-1 functions
- Includes smart doneness control
Cons:
- Complex setup for beginners
- May be bulky for tiny kitchens
- Higher price compared to basic fryers
Best for: Families seeking quick, crispy summer meals with minimal oil
Not ideal for: Very small kitchens or those on a tight budget
Bottom line: A versatile, space-efficient air fryer perfect for crispy summer meals.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability are accurate as of the time of publishing.
