Ninja foodi pressure cooker and air fryer whole chicken recipe:
Cooking a whole chicken in your Ninja Foodi is a game-changer.
The combination of pressure cooking and air frying results in a juicy, tender bird with crispy skin.
Follow this simple guide to create a delicious meal your family will love.
Preparing Your Chicken
Choose a Whole Chicken of Appropriate Size
- Select a whole chicken that fits comfortably in your Ninja Foodi. A 3 to 5-pound bird is ideal for this recipe.
Clean and Pat Dry the Chicken
- Rinse the chicken under cold water to remove any impurities.
- Use paper towels to pat the chicken dry, both inside and out. This helps the skin crisp up nicely when air frying.
Season the Chicken with Your Preferred Spices
- Choose your favorite seasonings, such as salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, or herbs like rosemary and thyme.
- Rub the spices evenly over the chicken, making sure to season inside the cavity as well. Feel free to get creative with your spice blend!
Cooking the Chicken in the Ninja Foodi
Set Up the Pressure Cooker
- Insert the cooking pot into the Ninja Foodi and add 1 cup of water or broth to create steam.
- Place the reversible rack in the pot, and then position the seasoned chicken on top of the rack.
Pressure Cook the Chicken
- Close the lid and ensure the pressure release valve is set to “Seal.”
- Select the “Pressure” cooking option and set the timer for 25-30 minutes, depending on the size of your chicken.
- Once the cooking time is up, let the pressure release naturally for about 10-15 minutes before switching the valve to “Vent” to release any remaining steam.
Air Fry the Chicken
- After cooking, remove the lid and carefully lift out the chicken.
- Discard the liquid in the pot, then return the chicken to the Ninja Foodi.
- Close the crisping lid and select the “Air Crisp” function. Set the temperature to 400°F (200°C) and cook for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the skin is golden brown and crispy. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached 165°F (75°C).
Resting and Serving the Chicken
Let the Chicken Rest
- Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken from the Ninja Foodi and place it on a cutting board.
- Allow the chicken to rest for about 10 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, making for a more flavorful bird.
Carve and Serve
- Using a sharp knife, carve the chicken into portions and serve alongside your favorite sides. Enjoy the delicious, juicy meat with that perfectly crispy skin!
Tips for Success
- Experiment with different spices or marinades to find the flavor combination that you love.
- Ensure that your chicken is allowed to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking for even cooking.
- If you’re cooking a larger chicken, adjust the pressure cooking time accordingly.
With this simple recipe, you can enjoy a whole chicken that is both tender and crispy in no time, all thanks to your Ninja Foodi!
Cooking Whole Chicken
Setting up the Ninja Foodi Pressure Cooker
To set up your Ninja Foodi pressure cooker, follow these simple steps:
- Preparation: Ensure the cooker is clean and all parts are assembled correctly. Place the inner pot inside the base unit.
- Add Liquid: Add at least 1 cup of liquid (water, broth, or marinade) to the inner pot. This is crucial for creating the steam needed for pressure cooking.
- Position the Chicken: Season your whole chicken and place it on the reversible rack, then insert the rack into the inner pot.
- Seal the Lid: Close the pressure lid (the lid with the pressure indicator) and ensure the valve is set to “Seal”.
- Select Pressure Cooking Mode: Press the ‘Pressure’ button and adjust the time using the ‘+’ and ‘–’ buttons.
Pressure Cooking Time and Temperature Guidelines
- Time: For a whole chicken weighing around 4 to 5 pounds, set the pressure cooking time to 25-30 minutes.
- Temperature: The default temperature for pressure cooking in the Ninja Foodi is High Pressure, which is what you’ll want for cooking chicken.
Air Frying Time and Temperature Guidelines
Once the pressure cooking is complete, release the pressure by turning the valve to “Vent”.
Remove the lid and switch to air frying mode.
- Time: Set the air frying time to 10-15 minutes to achieve that crispy skin.
- Temperature: Adjust the temperature to 400°F (204°C) during air frying for optimal crispiness.
By following these guidelines, you’ll be on your way to enjoying a delicious, perfectly cooked whole chicken in no time!
Determining Doneness
When it comes to cooking a whole chicken, ensuring it’s cooked thoroughly is key to food safety and enjoying a delicious meal.
Here’s how you can easily check if your chicken is done and why resting it afterward is important.
Checking Internal Temperature with a Meat Thermometer
Using a meat thermometer is the most reliable way to check if your chicken is fully cooked. Here’s how to do it:
- Insert the Thermometer: Slide the thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken’s thigh, avoiding the bone, as this can give a false reading.
- Check the Temperature: The chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). If it hasn’t reached this temperature yet, cook it a little longer while checking every few minutes.
Example: If you set your timer for 25 minutes and check the temperature afterward, it reads 160°F.
You know you need to cook it for another 5-10 minutes and then check again.
Importance of Resting the Chicken Post-Cooking
After you’ve cooked your chicken, it’s essential to let it rest before carving.
Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making every bite juicy and flavorful.
Practical Tips:
- How Long to Rest: Let your chicken rest for about 10-15 minutes after removing it from the Ninja Foodi.
- Cover It: Tent the chicken loosely with aluminum foil while it rests to keep it warm.
By following these steps, you’ll ensure that your whole chicken is both safely cooked and deliciously juicy!
Creative Uses for Left Chicken
Leftover chicken doesn’t have to be boring! Here are some easy and delicious ideas to make the most of that extra poultry in your fridge.
Recipes for Using Leftover Chicken
Chicken Soup
- Step 1: Chop or shred the leftover chicken into small pieces.
- Step 2: In a pot, add some diced onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté until they soften.
- Step 3: Pour in some chicken broth (about 4 cups) and bring it to a simmer.
- Step 4: Add the shredded chicken and any seasonings you like (salt, pepper, herbs).
- Step 5: Let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, then serve hot.
Chicken Salad
- Step 1: Shred or dice the leftover chicken.
- Step 2: In a bowl, combine the chicken with mayonnaise, diced celery, grapes, and chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans).
- Step 3: Season with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice.
- Step 4: Mix well and serve it over greens or in a sandwich.
Chicken Tacos
- Step 1: Shred the leftover chicken.
- Step 2: In a skillet, heat a little oil and add the chicken along with taco seasoning (store-bought or homemade).
- Step 3: Warm the chicken through until well-coated and hot.
- Step 4: Serve in taco shells with your favorite toppings like lettuce, cheese, salsa, and avocado.
Chicken Stir-Fry
- Step 1: Cut the leftover chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- Step 2: In a wok or skillet, heat some oil and sauté your choice of vegetables (like bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas).
- Step 3: Add the chicken to the pan along with soy sauce or teriyaki sauce.
- Step 4: Stir everything together for about 5-7 minutes until heated through, then serve over rice or noodles.
Chicken Sandwich
- Step 1: Shred or slice the leftover chicken.
- Step 2: Spread some mayonnaise, mustard, or your favorite condiment on bread or a roll.
- Step 3: Add a generous handful of chicken, some lettuce, tomato slices, and cheese if desired.
- Step 4: Close the sandwich, slice it, and enjoy!
Conclusion
With these simple recipes, you can turn leftover chicken into exciting new meals.
Whether you choose soup, salad, tacos, stir-fry, or a sandwich, you’re sure to enjoy the delicious flavors while reducing food waste!
Storage and Reheating
How to Store Leftover Chicken
- Allow to Cool: After you finish your meal, let the chicken cool to room temperature. This helps prevent moisture buildup in your storage container.
- Use an Airtight Container: Place the chicken in a clean airtight container or wrap it tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap. This keeps it fresh and prevents any odors from affecting the taste.
- Label and Date: If you are storing multiple items, label the container with the date it was made to keep track of freshness.
Refrigerate or Freeze:
- Refrigerate: If you plan to eat the leftovers within 3-4 days, simply store them in the fridge.
- Freeze: For longer storage, place the wrapped chicken in the freezer. It’s best to consume frozen chicken within 2-3 months for optimal quality.
Best Practices for Reheating
Refrigerated Chicken:
- Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken on a baking sheet and cover it with aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out. Heat for about 20-25 minutes, or until warmed through.
- Microwave Method: Place a portion of chicken on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat in 30-second intervals, checking until warmed to your liking.
Frozen Chicken:
- Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken on a baking sheet. Heat without thawing for about 30-40 minutes, covering with foil. Check for warmth before serving.
- Defrost First: If you prefer, you can defrost your chicken in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat using the methods mentioned above.
- Check Temperature: Always ensure reheated chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
By following these steps, you can enjoy your delicious Ninja Foodi whole chicken leftovers just as much as when they were freshly cooked!
How long does it take for Ninja Foodi to pressure cook?
The Ninja Foodi typically takes about 10 to 15 minutes to reach pressure before it starts cooking.
The actual cooking time varies depending on the type and size of the food being cooked.
Scientific Reason Behind Pressure Cooking Time
When the Ninja Foodi is set to pressure cook, it seals tightly and heats up your food with high-pressure steam.
This process increases the boiling point of water, allowing food to cook faster than it would in conventional methods.
1. Preheating Time: The 10 to 15 minutes it takes to build pressure is needed for the steam to accumulate and reach the necessary levels for effective cooking.
This step is crucial because the more pressure there is, the higher the temperature can go, which significantly reduces cooking time.
2. Cooking Time: The actual cooking duration after reaching pressure depends on the food’s density and amount.
For example, a whole chicken may take around 25-30 minutes, while vegetables may only need 2-5 minutes.
This variation is because denser foods require more time to heat through completely.
Can you cook a whole roast dinner in a Ninja Foodi?
Yes, you can cook a whole roast dinner in a Ninja Foodi! This versatile kitchen appliance allows you to pressure cook and air fry, making it possible to prepare a delicious roast alongside your favorite sides.
Example Recipe: Whole Roast Chicken with Vegetables
Ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken (about 4 pounds)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 medium potatoes, cut into chunks
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 1 onion, quartered
- 1 cup chicken broth or water
- Optional herbs (like rosemary or thyme)
Instructions:
Prepare the Chicken:
- Rinse the chicken and pat it dry with paper towels.
- Rub the chicken with olive oil, and season with salt, pepper, and herbs of your choice.
Prep the Vegetables:
- In a bowl, toss the potatoes, carrots, and onion with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Add Ingredients to the Ninja Foodi:
- Pour the chicken broth or water into the cooking pot.
- Place the seasoned chicken on the reversible rack. Arrange the vegetables around the chicken.
Pressure Cook:
- Close the lid and select the “Pressure” function. Set it to cook for 25 minutes on high pressure.
- After cooking, carefully quick-release the steam.
Crisp the Skin:
- Remove the rack with the chicken and vegetables.
- Switch to the “Air Crisp” function. Set the temperature to 400°F (200°C) and air fry for about 10-15 minutes until the chicken skin is golden brown and crispy.
Serve:
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before carving. Serve it alongside the roasted vegetables for a complete roast dinner.
With this simple approach, you can enjoy a delicious whole roast dinner in your Ninja Foodi with minimal effort!
How long to pressure cook whole chicken in Ninja Foodi?
To pressure cook a whole chicken in the Ninja Foodi, the cooking time depends on the size of the chicken.
Here’s a simple guideline:
- For a 3 to 4-pound chicken: Cook for 25 minutes.
- For a 4 to 5-pound chicken: Cook for 30 minutes.
Practical Example:
If you have a 4-pound chicken, set your Ninja Foodi to pressure cook for 30 minutes.
After the time is up, allow the pressure to release naturally for about 10-15 minutes before opening the lid.
This will help ensure your chicken is nice and juicy!
