Summer is the perfect time to gather friends and family for outdoor cookouts and picnics. The Ninja DoubleStack XL Smart Air Fryer makes it easy to prepare delicious, crispy fried chicken without the mess of traditional frying.
Its space-saving design and versatile functions allow you to cook multiple components simultaneously, saving you time and effort in your summer meal prep. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making perfect air-fried chicken for your summer celebrations.
Our top pick at a glance

Ninja DoubleStack XL Smart Air Fryer
- ✔ Color: Stainless Steel
- ✔ Power: 1800W
- ✔ Weight: 15 lbs

Ninja DoubleStack XL Smart Air Fryer, 2-Basket, 10 QT, 6-in-1, DoubleStack Technology Cooks 4 Foods at Once, Space Saving Design, Air Fry, Broil, Bake SL451
SPACE SAVING DESIGN: Ninja’s stacked design lets you cook double the food in nearly half the space and...
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Ingredients and Equipment Needed
- Chicken pieces (drumsticks, thighs, or breasts)
- Your favorite seasoning or marinade
- Olive oil or cooking spray
- Ninja DoubleStack XL Smart Air Fryer
- Meat thermometer (included with the fryer)
Make sure to have all ingredients prepared before starting to streamline your cooking process.
Preparation and Cooking Steps
- Season or marinate your chicken pieces as desired. Let them sit for at least 15 minutes for better flavor.
- Preheat the Ninja Air Fryer to 400°F using the air fry setting.
- Lightly spray the chicken with olive oil or cooking spray for extra crispiness.
- Place the chicken pieces in one of the baskets, ensuring they are not overcrowded for even cooking.
- Set the smart thermometer to the recommended temperature (generally 165°F for chicken) and start cooking.
- While the chicken cooks, use the second basket to prepare side items like vegetables or fries, if desired.
- Check the internal temperature with the smart thermometer to ensure perfect doneness. Cook longer if needed.
- Remove the chicken once it reaches the target temperature and crispy exterior.
Using the DoubleStack design allows you to prepare mains and sides simultaneously, making your summer meal prep more efficient.
Tips for Perfect Air-Fried Chicken
- Do not overcrowd the baskets; leave space for air circulation for maximum crispiness.
- Use the smart thermometer for accurate doneness verification instead of relying on time alone.
- Rotate the baskets halfway through cooking for even browning.
- Experiment with different seasonings or marinades for variety in your summer menu.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the crispy texture at its best.
With these simple tips, your air-fried chicken will be a highlight of your outdoor summer feasts.
More Details on Our Top Picks
Ninja DoubleStack XL Smart Air Fryer

The Ninja DoubleStack XL Smart Air Fryer is ideal for preparing crispy chicken and sides simultaneously, making summer outdoor cooking easier and healthier. Its space-saving design and smart features ensure perfect results every time.
Pros:
- Cooks up to four foods at once
- Space-efficient design fits under cabinets
- Versatile 6-in-1 functions
- Smart doneness control
Cons:
- Complex setup with multiple components
- May be bulky for very small kitchens
- Higher price point than basic air fryers
Best for: Family-sized summer meals and outdoor gatherings
Not ideal for: Very small kitchens or those on a tight budget
Bottom line: A versatile, space-saving air fryer that simplifies summer outdoor cooking with smart features and large capacity.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability are accurate as of the time of publishing.