How To Cook Frozen Chicken In Ninja Foodi

How To Cook Frozen Chicken In Ninja Foodi Like a Pro

Are you tired of waiting for your chicken to thaw before cooking it? Look no further, because with the amazing Ninja Foodi, you can cook frozen chicken in no time! Whether you forgot to thaw the chicken or simply prefer the convenience, we’ve got you covered with this easy guide.

Why choose Ninja Foodi?

The Ninja Foodi is a versatile kitchen appliance that combines the functions of a pressure cooker and an air fryer into one convenient device. It’s known for its ability to cook food quickly and evenly, making it a perfect choice for cooking frozen chicken.

Step 1: Preparing the Chicken

Start by taking out your frozen chicken and placing it on a cutting board. If the chicken is individually wrapped, remove any plastic packaging. If it’s in a freezer bag, you can leave it as is. One benefit of cooking frozen chicken in the Ninja Foodi is that you don’t have to worry about seasonings or marinades penetrating the meat, as the pressure cooking method will infuse the flavors perfectly.

Step 2: Seasoning the Chicken

If desired, season the chicken with your favorite spices and herbs. You can keep it simple with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, or get creative with a spice rub or marinade. The choice is yours!

Step 3: Preheating the Ninja Foodi

Place the inner pot into the Ninja Foodi and close the lid. Select the “Pressure” function and set the cooking time according to the size of your chicken pieces. It’s essential to preheat the Ninja Foodi to ensure even and efficient cooking. While it’s preheating, the display will show “HEAT” until the desired cooking temperature is reached.

Step 4: Cooking the Chicken

Once the Ninja Foodi has preheated, carefully place the seasoned frozen chicken pieces into the inner pot. Close the lid and make sure the pressure release valve is set to the “Sealing” position. Select the cooking time based on the thickness and type of chicken you’re using.

• For boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Cook for 10-12 minutes.
• For bone-in chicken pieces: Cook for 15-20 minutes.
• For chicken thighs or drumsticks: Cook for 12-15 minutes.

Keep in mind that these cooking times may vary depending on the size and quantity of the frozen chicken. It’s always a good idea to consult the Ninja Foodi manual for specific guidelines.

Step 5: Releasing the Pressure

Once the cooking time is complete, allow the Ninja Foodi to release the pressure naturally for about 10 minutes. Afterward, you can manually release any remaining pressure by carefully turning the pressure release valve to the “Venting” position. Make sure to use a long spoon or tongs to avoid the hot steam.

Step 6: Checking the Chicken

Open the lid of the Ninja Foodi and use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken has reached a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If it’s not fully cooked, you can close the lid and use the “Pressure Cook” function for a few more minutes.

Step 7: Optional Air Crisping

If you prefer crispy chicken, you can use the air fryer function of the Ninja Foodi to achieve a delicious golden brown crust. Simply switch to the “Air Crisp” function, adjust the temperature and time according to your preference, and crisp up the chicken until it reaches the desired texture.

Step 8: Enjoy Your Delicious Frozen Chicken

Once the chicken is cooked to perfection, remove it from the Ninja Foodi and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Whether you serve it as is or use it in your favorite recipes, you can feel proud of your accomplishment in cooking frozen chicken without the hassle of thawing.

So next time you find yourself with frozen chicken and in a rush to get dinner on the table, remember that your trusty Ninja Foodi is there to save the day. With its versatility and efficiency, cooking frozen chicken has never been easier or more delicious!