How to Cook Juicy, Tender Chicken Breasts in the Ninja Foodi

The Ninja Foodi is an incredibly versatile kitchen appliance that can be used to prepare chicken breasts in a variety of ways. With options like pressure cooking, air frying, baking/roasting, broiling, and dehydrating, you can make moist, flavorful chicken breasts easily.

This guide will show you how to cook chicken breasts in the Ninja Foodi in a variety of ways, along with tips and tricks to make sure they always come out juicy and tender.

Why the Ninja Foodi is Great for Chicken Breasts

The Ninja Foodi is ideal for cooking chicken breasts because:

• The pressure cooking setting cooks food fast while locking in moisture. Chicken breasts come out very juicy and tender.

• Air frying gives you crispy, golden exteriors without drying out the inside.

• Baking/roasting lets you achieve nice browning and caramelization for added flavor

• For the perfect mix of juicy and crispy chicken, you can use more than one cooking function at the same time.

• Its temperature precision and smart cook programs take the guesswork out of getting perfect doneness.

• The nonstick cookware is easy to clean and cares for

Tips for Preparing Chicken Breasts

• Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for ease of cooking. Skin-on breasts will work too but may need slightly longer cook times.

• Pat the chicken dry before seasoning to help the flavors stick better.

• Pound the thicker parts of the breasts to even out thickness so they cook evenly.

• Season generously with salt, pepper, herbs, spices, etc. A simple lemon pepper or garlic herb seasoning works very well.

• Let sit 5-10 minutes after seasoning so flavors are absorbed before cooking. Or marinate for added flavor.

• Brush with a little oil if air frying or roasting for increased browning.

How to Pressure Cook Chicken Breasts

Pressure cooking is a quick and convenient way to cook super moist, tender chicken breasts in the Ninja Foodi.

Ingredients:

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup chicken broth or water
• Salt, pepper, herbs and spices of choice

Directions:

1. Pat the chicken dry and season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and any other seasonings.

2. Pour the broth or water into the inner pot of the Ninja Foodi.

3. Place the trivet inside then arrange the chicken breasts in a single layer on top.

4. Lock the lid and set to pressure cook on high for 8-12 minutes (time varies by size).

5. When cooking completes, quick release the pressure.

6. Remove chicken and check doneness with a meat thermometer, aiming for 165°F.

7. Let rest 5 minutes then serve.

This quick pressure cook method will make the chicken very juicy and tasty. Adjust time as needed for larger or smaller breasts.

How to Air Fry Chicken Breasts

The air fry setting makes it easy to get crispy, golden chicken breasts without needing to deep fry.

Ingredients:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 Tbsp oil or butter
• Salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, etc.

Directions:

1. Pat chicken dry and brush all over with oil or melted butter.

2. Season both sides generously with desired spices and rub in.

3. Arrange chicken in the air fry basket in a single layer without overlapping.

4. Set to air fry at 400°F for 14-18 minutes, flipping halfway.

5. Check internal temp, remove when chicken reaches 165°F.

6. Let rest 5 minutes then serve.

The chicken comes out of the air fryer very crispy, but the meat inside is soft and juicy. Adjust time based on thickness. Brushing with oil ensures ideal browning.

How to Bake Chicken Breasts

Baking chicken breasts in the Ninja Foodi produces nicely browned exterior with a moist interior.

Ingredients:

• 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 Tbsp olive oil or melted butter
• Desired seasonings

Directions:

1. Pat chicken dry and rub all over with oil or butter.

2. Generously season both sides with spices of choice.

3. Place chicken on the cook & crisp plate or baking pan.

4. Set to bake at 375°F for 20-25 minutes.

5. Flip chicken halfway through cooking.

6. Check temperature, remove at 165°F internal temp.

7. Allow to rest 5 minutes then serve warm.

Baking gives great flavor and texture. Brush with oil for increased browning. Adjust time as needed based on size.

How to Use Multiple Cooking Methods

One of the best things about the Ninja Foodi is that you can combine different cooking functions to get the perfect juicy, tender interior and nice crispy exterior on chicken breasts.

Here is one method combining pressure cooking and air frying:

Ingredients:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• Spice rub of choice

Directions:

1. Season chicken breasts on both sides with desired spice blend.

2. Pour broth in pot, place trivet and chicken inside. Pressure cook 6 minutes.

3. Quick release pressure and remove chicken.

4. Coat chicken all over with a little oil or melted butter.

5. Place in air fry basket and air fry at 390°F for 10 minutes, flipping halfway.

6. Check internal temperature, remove at 165°F.

7. Let rest 5 minutes then serve.

The pressure cooking ensures tender juicy meat while the air frying makes the exterior crispy. Play around with cook times to get your perfect results.

Common FAQs and Troubleshooting

How long should I cook chicken breasts in the Ninja Foodi?

Cook times can vary based on the size and thickness of breasts as well as cooking method. Whole breasts take 12-20 minutes typically while thinner cutlets may need only 6-12 minutes. Always use a meat thermometer for doneness.

Why are my chicken breasts drying out in the Ninja Foodi?

Overcooking is the most common reason for dry chicken breasts. Use a meat thermometer and don’t cook past 165°F internal temp. Also avoid overlapping breasts as this prevents even cooking.

Can I cook frozen chicken breasts in the Ninja Foodi?

Yes, the Ninja Foodi can cook frozen chicken breasts. Add a few minutes to the cook time and check temperature to ensure 165°F internally. Air frying or baking works best from frozen.

Do I need to flip chicken breasts while cooking in the Ninja Foodi?

It’s recommended to flip chicken breasts at least once midway through cooking to promote even browning and ensure proper doneness throughout.

How can I add extra flavor to Ninja Foodi chicken breasts?

Marinate chicken for added flavor and tenderness. You can also rub the meat under the skin. Use flavorful liquids like broths when pressure cooking. Glazing and sauces added after cooking also add flavor.

Which cooking function should I use to cook chicken breasts in the Ninja Foodi?

All the functions work great, just depends what texture you want. Pressure cook for super tender and juicy meat. Air fry or bake/roast for crispy exterior. Use a combo method for best of both.

The Perfect Ninja Foodi Chicken Breasts Every Time

With the right techniques, cooking chicken breasts in the Ninja Foodi is easy and foolproof. Follow the tips in this guide for moist, juicy, flavorful results:

• Pound to an even thickness

• Pat dry and season generously

• Don’t overcook – use a meat thermometer

• Allow to rest before cutting and serving

• Combine functions like pressure cook + air fry for ideal texture

• Brush with oil or butter when air frying or baking

• Flip halfway during cooking for even browning

• Adjust cook times based on size and thickness

Once you get the hang of it, you’ll be able to make tender, juicy chicken breasts any night of the week with your Ninja Foodi!