Below you will find a collection of the chicken recipes I have made in the Ninja Foodi so far. Whether you’re using the pressure cooker, slow cooker, or air fryer function, the Ninja Foodi makes preparing delicious chicken meals quick and hassle-free. From hearty casseroles to tasty curries, this versatile appliance can do it all!
The recipes below focus on using the pressure cooker function, which helps lock in flavour and moisture while drastically cutting down cooking time. However, if you’re in the mood for crispy, golden chicken, check out my air fryer chicken recipes—or, if you want to cook on low and slow, head over to my slow cooker chicken recipe collection for inspiration.
Why the Ninja Foodi is Great for Cooking Chicken
The Ninja Foodi is a game-changer when it comes to cooking chicken because it combines multiple cooking methods in one device. Here’s why it’s so versatile:
- Pressure Cooker Function: This is perfect for dishes that need to be cooked quickly without losing moisture, such as casseroles, curries, and stews. The pressure cooker function tenderizes chicken beautifully, even tougher cuts like thighs or drumsticks.
- Air Fryer Function: You can achieve perfectly crispy skin on chicken without deep frying. Whether you’re making wings, drumsticks, or even a whole chicken, the air fryer function delivers fantastic results.
- Slow Cook Function: Ideal for those who prefer a low and slow approach for soups and stews.
- Sear/Sauté Function: A great feature for browning chicken before pressure cooking or thickening sauces at the end of cooking.
Cooking Times for Different Cuts of Chicken in the Ninja Foodi (Pressure Cooker Function)
Here’s a quick guide to pressure cooking different cuts of chicken. Always ensure you use enough liquid (at least 250ml) for the pressure cooker to build up steam properly:
- Boneless Chicken Breasts:
- Cooking time: 8-10 minutes on high pressure
- Release: Natural release for 5 minutes, then quick release
- Tip: Add seasoning and liquid (such as stock or sauce) to prevent dryness.
- Bone-In Chicken Thighs/Drumsticks:
- Cooking time: 12-15 minutes on high pressure
- Release: Quick release
- Tip: For extra flavour, sear the thighs first using the sauté function before pressure cooking.
- Boneless Chicken Thighs:
- Cooking time: 8-10 minutes on high pressure
- Release: Natural release for 5 minutes, then quick release
- Tip: Boneless thighs are perfect for shredding after cooking, making them ideal for tacos or wraps.
- Whole Chicken:
- Cooking time: Allow 8 minutes at high pressure per 500g of chicken on high pressure
- Release: Natural release for 10 minutes, then quick release
- Tip: Use the pressure cooker function first, then finish with the air crisp function to get beautifully crispy skin.
Top Tips for Cooking Chicken in the Ninja Foodi
- Always Add Enough Liquid:
The pressure cooker function needs at least 250ml of liquid to build pressure and cook properly. This liquid can be water, stock, or even a sauce, depending on the recipe. - Internal Temperature for Chicken:
To ensure your chicken is cooked safely, always check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. The safe internal temperature for cooked chicken is 75°C (165°F). - Use Natural Release for Better Moisture Retention:
For large cuts of chicken like a whole chicken or bone-in thighs, allowing the pressure to naturally release for 5-10 minutes helps retain moisture and keeps the meat tender. - Get Crispy Skin with the Air Fryer Function:
When cooking a whole chicken or chicken thighs, you can use the pressure cooker function first, then switch to the air crisp function to get golden, crispy skin. This two-step method gives you the best of both worlds: tender meat and crunchy skin! - Season Generously:
Since pressure cooking doesn’t allow for evaporation like traditional cooking methods, the flavors you start with are the ones you end up with. Don’t be afraid to add bold spices, marinades, or even a splash of soy sauce for extra flavor.
Would you like to save this recipe?
We'll email this post to you, so you can come back to it later!
Suggested Equipment for Cooking Chicken in the Ninja Foodi
- Meat Thermometer: Essential for checking the internal temperature of chicken, especially whole chickens or larger cuts.
- Silicone Tongs: Perfect for turning and removing chicken without scratching the pot.
- Trivet: Useful for elevating the chicken above the liquid when cooking a whole chicken or drumsticks.
- Steamer Basket: Great for steaming vegetables alongside your chicken for a complete one-pot meal.
Storage Tips for Leftover Chicken
- Fridge: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Leftover chicken can be frozen for up to 3 months. Shred or cut the chicken into smaller pieces before freezing for easier reheating.
- Reheating: Reheat leftovers in the Ninja Foodi using the air fryer function for crispy results, or gently warm using the sauté function with a splash of stock to keep it moist.
Try These Recipes Next!
While the recipes in this post focus on the pressure cooker function, don’t forget that the Ninja Foodi is also brilliant for air-frying chicken! You can try recipes like air fryer chicken wings, drumsticks, or even crispy chicken fillets using the air crisp function.
If you want even more inspiration, check out my air fryer chicken recipe collection, where I’ve shared lots of quick and easy meal ideas that can also be made using the Ninja Foodi!