Summer is the perfect time for family barbecues and outdoor gatherings, but sometimes you want that crispy fried chicken without the mess of traditional frying. The Ninja DZ401 Foodi Air Fryer makes it simple to achieve golden, crunchy chicken right in your kitchen, saving time and reducing oil.
Follow this easy step-by-step recipe to serve up delicious, crispy fried chicken that everyone will love, all using the versatile 6-in-1 Ninja Foodi Air Fryer.
Our top pick at a glance
Ninja DZ401 Foodi 10 Quart 6-in-1 DualZone XL 2-Basket A
- ✔ Dimensions: 15 x 14 x 14 inches
- ✔ Weight: 22 pounds
- ✔ Power: 1760W
Ninja DZ401 Foodi 10 Quart 6-in-1 DualZone XL 2-Basket Air Fryer with 2 Independent Frying Baskets, Match Cook & Smart Finish to Roast, Broil, Dehydrate for Quick, Easy Family-Sized Meals, Grey
MAKE WHOLE MEALS AT ONCE: DualZone Technology allows you to choose between Smart Finish, which cooks 2 foods...
As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.
Preparing the Chicken
Start with fresh chicken pieces—thighs, drumsticks, or breasts—according to your preference. Pat them dry with paper towels to ensure crispiness.
Season the chicken generously with your favorite spices. For a classic flavor, use salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and a touch of cayenne for heat. Let the seasoned chicken sit for 10-15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Setting Up the Ninja Foodi Air Fryer
Place the two independent frying baskets into the Ninja Foodi 10 Quart Air Fryer. Use the Match Cook feature to synchronize the cooking times for both baskets, ensuring even crisping across different types of chicken or sides.
Select the ‘Air Fry’ setting and set the temperature to 400°F. Preheat the air fryer for about 5 minutes to ensure a hot, crispy finish.
Cooking the Chicken
Arrange the chicken pieces in the baskets in a single layer, avoiding overcrowding for optimal crispness. Use the Smart Finish feature to coordinate cooking times if you’re preparing different types of chicken or sides.
Cook for 25-30 minutes, flipping the chicken halfway through. The Ninja Foodi’s dual baskets allow you to cook different flavors or sides simultaneously, making your summer meal prep even easier.
Serving and Tips
Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute for maximum flavor and juiciness.
For extra crispiness, you can give the chicken a quick additional 2-3 minutes in the air fryer. Pair your fried chicken with fresh summer salads or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.
Cleaning and Maintenance
After enjoying your summer feast, allow the air fryer to cool down. Remove the baskets and wash them with warm, soapy water or place them in the dishwasher. Wipe the interior of the unit with a damp cloth to keep it looking and functioning like new.
More Details on Our Top Picks
Ninja DZ401 Foodi 10 Quart 6-in-1 DualZone XL 2-Basket A
The Ninja DZ401 Foodi 10 Quart Air Fryer simplifies summer cooking with its dual baskets and smart features. It delivers crispy, delicious chicken with less oil, perfect for family gatherings.
Pros:
- Large 10-quart capacity
- Dual independent baskets
- Smart Finish and Match Cook features
- Versatile 6-in-1 functions
Cons:
- Takes up counter space
- Learning curve for new users
- Requires some cleaning after use
Best for: Families wanting quick, crispy summer meals
Not ideal for: Small households or those avoiding appliance clutter
Bottom line: A versatile, family-sized 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.
