Master the Art of Cooking a Whole Chicken in the Ninja Foodi
Are you ready to elevate your culinary skills and impress your family and friends with a succulent and perfectly cooked whole chicken? Look no further – the Ninja Foodi is here to save the day! This innovative kitchen appliance combines the power of a pressure cooker and an air fryer, allowing you to achieve juicy, tender, and crispy results all in one go. Let’s dive into the step-by-step process of cooking a whole chicken in the Ninja Foodi to create a mouthwatering masterpiece.
Step 1: Selecting the Perfect Chicken
Before you dive into the cooking process, it’s important to select the right chicken. Look for a plump and fresh whole chicken that weighs around 4 to 5 pounds. Ensure that the chicken is properly cleaned and free from any giblets or excess fat. Once you have chosen the perfect bird, it’s time to move on to the preparation stage.
Step 2: Preparing the Chicken
Start by rinsing the chicken under cold water and patting it dry with paper towels. Season the chicken with your favorite herbs and spices, such as rosemary, thyme, garlic powder, paprika, or a pre-made seasoning blend. Be generous with your seasoning, as it will infuse the chicken with incredible flavors while it cooks. If you have time, let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for a couple of hours to enhance the taste even further.
Step 3: Using the Ninja Foodi
Now it’s time to bring out the Ninja Foodi and put its magical powers to good use. Place the chicken on the wire rack inside the inner pot of the Ninja Foodi, making sure it is positioned breast side up. Close the lid securely, ensuring that the pressure release valve is set to the “seal” position.
Plug in the Ninja Foodi and select the “Pressure Cook” function. Set the time to 25 minutes per pound of chicken and let the Ninja Foodi work its magic. Once the cooking time is up, allow the pressure to release naturally for about 10 minutes and then carefully switch the pressure release valve to “vent” to release any remaining pressure. Safety first!
Step 4: Crisping it Up
Now it’s time to take your chicken to the next level of deliciousness. Remove the chicken from the Ninja Foodi and place it on a clean plate. Preheat the Ninja Foodi’s air fryer function to 400°F (200°C). Brush the chicken with a thin layer of oil or melted butter to help achieve that beautiful golden-brown crispy skin.
Place the chicken back into the inner pot of the Ninja Foodi using the wire rack or the Cook and Crisp Basket. Air fry the chicken for approximately 10-15 minutes or until the skin becomes wonderfully crispy. Keep an eye on it to prevent overcooking or burning.
Step 5: Let it Rest and Serve
Once the chicken is cooked to perfection, remove it from the Ninja Foodi and let it rest for a few minutes to allow the juices to redistribute. This step is crucial for locking in all those delicious flavors. Use a sharp knife to carve the chicken into desired pieces, and it’s time to indulge in your masterpiece!
Serve your perfectly cooked whole chicken with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. The tender meat, infused with aromatic herbs and spices, combined with the crispy skin, will leave your taste buds in absolute awe.
Cooking a whole chicken in the Ninja Foodi is an absolute game-changer. With its multiple functions and innovative technology, achieving a restaurant-quality chicken has never been easier. So, fire up your Ninja Foodi, follow these simple steps, and get ready to receive applause and compliments for your culinary skills. Happy cooking!
Was this page helpful?
Read Next: How To Cook Wild Rice Blend In Rice Cooker