Summer is the perfect time to fire up the grill, but sometimes you want the smoky flavor and crispy texture of BBQ chicken without the hassle of outdoor grilling. The Ninja DoubleStack XL Smart Air Fryer offers a convenient way to prepare delicious, tender, and crispy chicken indoors, making it an ideal appliance for summer meals.
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With its space-saving stacked design and versatile cooking functions, you can prepare a batch of BBQ chicken quickly and easily. Follow this step-by-step guide to create a juicy, flavorful summer favorite in your air fryer!
Our top pick at a glance
Ninja DoubleStack XL Smart Air Fryer
- ✔ Weight: Approximately 21 lbs
- ✔ Power: 1700W
- ✔ Color Options: Stainless Steel, Black
Ingredients and Preparation
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce of your choice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: chopped fresh herbs for garnish
Start by patting the chicken thighs dry and seasoning them with salt and pepper. Coat them lightly with olive oil for extra crispiness. Prepare your favorite BBQ sauce for glazing.
Cooking with the Ninja DoubleStack XL
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F using the Roast function.
- Place the chicken thighs in the baskets, skin-side up, ensuring they are not overcrowded to allow even airflow.
- Cook for 15 minutes, then flip the chicken and cook for an additional 10 minutes.
- Brush the chicken with BBQ sauce, then switch to the Broil function for 3-5 minutes to caramelize the sauce and crisp the skin.
- Use the Smart Thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F for perfect doneness.
The DoubleStack design allows you to cook two batches simultaneously if needed, saving time during your summer gatherings.
Finishing Touches and Serving
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped herbs if desired and serve hot alongside your favorite summer sides like corn on the cob or coleslaw.
This method ensures a crispy exterior and juicy interior, with the convenience of indoor cooking and less mess. Plus, the Ninja’s versatile functions let you reheat leftovers or dehydrate fruits for summer snacks!
More Details on Our Top Picks
Ninja DoubleStack XL Smart Air Fryer
The Ninja DoubleStack XL Smart Air Fryer delivers crispy, tender BBQ-style chicken with minimal effort. Its space-saving design and versatile features make it a summer kitchen essential.
Pros:
- Cooks multiple foods simultaneously
- Space-efficient for small kitchens
- Versatile 6-in-1 functions
Cons:
- Setup can be complex with multiple components
- Bulky for very small spaces
- Higher price than basic models
Best for: Families or individuals wanting quick, crispy BBQ chicken indoors
Not ideal for: Those with very limited kitchen space or on a tight budget
Bottom line: A versatile, space-saving air fryer perfect for quick, crispy summer meals.
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