Ninja Foodi Grill Juicy Grilled Chicken Breasts
Ninja Foodi Grill Juicy Grilled Chicken Breast is going to be the highlight of your week. Tender and juicy chicken that is flavored to perfection. Serve with any of your favorite side dishes and you have a healthy dinner ready in no time!
Marinating chicken breast is one of my favorite things to do. With my Ninja Foodi Grill it can be snowing outside and I still can serve up our favorite grilled chicken. Beautiful markings, rich flavor, and juicy as can be.
Grilled Chicken Breasts
Brown sugar adds a hint of sweetness to this recipe. Then the garlic, soy sauce, and balsamic vinegar all are just perfectly paired together. This is literally the best chicken marinade for grilled chicken. Plus you have to check out my pork marinade, and steak marinade I use! You won’t want to miss those either!
How Do You Grill Chicken And Keep It Moist
Marinating your chicken is the key to getting moist and juicy chicken. I know that might sound crazy but it is true. You want to marinate the chicken to really lock in flavor and prevent it from drying as it cooks. This recipe is spot on for both. So take the time and allow your chicken to really marinate in this mixture.
What If My Chicken Breasts Are Extra Thick
Sometimes you find chicken breasts that are rather large in size. Sometimes you find with grilling the chicken overcooks on the outside and can be undercooked in the center. So what I recommend is either cutting the chicken in half, so it is thinner before you marinate it. Or you can place it in between plastic wrap and use a rolling pin to help flatten the chicken a bit.
That way when you toss on the Ninja Foodi Grill you can get an even cook. Have you ever noticed where chicken is wider in certain spots, by flattening it out you get a more even cook and ensure all the chicken is properly cooked?
How To Make Juicy Grilled Chicken Breast On Your Ninja Foodi Grill
- In a bowl mix together oil, soy sauce, balsamic vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire, garlic & salt & pepper. Set aside 1/4 cup to use later when serving.
- If your breasts are super thick and or uneven in thickness, put between saran wrap and beat until even and less thick. Or cut in half, creating 2 less thick breasts.
- Poke breasts with a fork creating little pockets for the marinade to soak into.
- Put your breasts into the marinade and let marinate for at least 20 minutes.
- Insert removable cooking pot. Insert the grill grate into your pot.
- Press the grill button, set the temperature to MEDIUM, and set the time to 25 minutes.
- Once “Add Food” flashes, add the chicken breasts onto the grill, and close the lid.
- At 8-10 minutes (depending on how thick) open the grill and flip the meat, closing the grill once again.
- Cook for another 5 minutes, open the lid and baste the chicken with more marinade.
- Cover and cook for another 5 minutes. Start to check the internal temp to make sure you are not starting to overcook. You want to have an internal temp of 165 degrees.
- Flip meat one last time and baste one more time. Cook as long as needed until you reach your internal temp of 165 degrees.
- Allow meat to rest for 5 minutes before cutting and serving.
What To Pair With Grilled Chicken Breasts
- Pasta Salads
- Cucumber Salad
- Potato Dishes
- Whole Roasted Cauliflower (for a lower-carb option)
- Pasta dish sides
- Baked Beans
- Rice dishes
- etc
You will find this chicken recipe is highly versatile. Pair with any of your favorite side dishes. Reach for total comfort food or opt for a lighter side if you want a healthier dinner idea.
What Temperature Does Chicken Need To Reach Internally To Be Safe
Cooking chicken is always something you need a meat thermometer for. You will want to place the thermometer in the thickest part of the chicken. Make sure you get it in the chicken so it can truly gauge the temp. Chicken needs to be cooked to 165 degrees. Some people will pull chicken off at 160 degrees, let it sit, and then re-check to ensure it rises to 165.
What If I Don’t Have A Ninja Foodi Grill
Make this grilled chicken anytime. Feel free to also toss it on your outside grill if you don’t own a Ninja Foodi. It will work the same. I find that pellet grills and propane are nice since you can control the temperature a bit more than a wood fire. Either way, you can still cook this without a Ninja Foodi Grill.
Photo by Mateusz Dach: https://www.pexels.com/photo/shallow-focus-photography-of-fire-1275691/
Can I make these in my Ninja Foodi?
Yes, you sure can. Just keep reading below and you will find detailed directions in the notes section of the recipe card. Enjoy!
How To Clean Ninja Foodi Grill
Cleaning your Ninja Foodi Grill is essential to maintain its performance and longevity. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to clean it:
After Each Use:
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Unplug the Grill:
- Before cleaning, make sure the Ninja Foodi Grill is unplugged and has cooled down.
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Remove Grates and Drip Tray:
- Take out the cooking grates and the drip tray. These are usually dishwasher safe, but you can hand wash them with warm, soapy water as well.
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Wipe Down Interior:
- Using a damp cloth or sponge, wipe down the interior surfaces of the grill to remove any food residue. Be gentle to avoid damaging the non-stick coating.
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Empty the Grease Cup:
- Dispose of any accumulated grease in the grease cup. Rinse it with warm water and soap.
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Clean Exterior:
- Wipe down the exterior of the Ninja Foodi Grill with a damp cloth. For stubborn stains, use a mild cleaning solution.
Periodic Cleaning:
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Clean the Heating Element:
- Allow the grill to cool completely. Gently brush or vacuum the heating element to remove any debris.
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Remove and Clean the Hood:
- If your Ninja Foodi Grill has a removable hood, take it off and clean it with a damp cloth. Do not immerse it in water or put it in the dishwasher.
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Clean the Air Intake Vent:
- Use a vacuum or a brush to clean the air intake vent to ensure proper airflow.
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Check for Grease Buildup:
- Periodically check for any grease buildup on the interior walls of the grill. Wipe it down with a damp cloth.
Deep Cleaning:
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Soak Grease Filter:
- If your Ninja Foodi Grill has a removable grease filter, soak it in warm, soapy water. Gently scrub off any residue.
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Clean the Exterior Thoroughly:
- For stubborn stains on the exterior, use a mild cleaning solution and a soft cloth. Avoid abrasive cleaners that can damage the finish.
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Inspect the Power Cord:
- Regularly check the power cord for any damage. If you notice any issues, contact the manufacturer for a replacement.
Remember to consult your Ninja Foodi Grill’s user manual for specific cleaning instructions and to ensure that you are following the manufacturer’s recommendations. Always allow the grill to cool before cleaning, and never submerge electrical components in water.
Tips & Tricks
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Use Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts cook quickly and evenly on the Ninja Foodi Grill, making them ideal for weeknight dinners or quick meals.
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Pound the Chicken Breasts: For even cooking, pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness before grilling. This ensures that they cook uniformly and prevents dry spots.
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Season Generously: Season the chicken breasts liberally with your favorite dry rub or marinade to add flavor. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes before grilling for best results.
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Preheat the Grill: Preheat your Ninja Foodi Grill on the grill setting for at least 10 minutes before adding the chicken breasts. A hot grill ensures that the chicken cooks quickly and develops a nice sear on the outside.
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Use the Grill Grate: Place the chicken breasts directly on the grill grate of the Ninja Foodi Grill. Avoid overcrowding the grill to ensure even cooking and beautiful grill marks.
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Grill with Lid Closed: For juicy and flavorful chicken breasts, grill with the lid closed as much as possible. This helps trap heat and smoke, cooking the chicken evenly while infusing it with smoky flavor.
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Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure the chicken breasts are cooked to perfection, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Chicken is safe to eat when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
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Rest Before Serving: Allow the grilled chicken breasts to rest for a few minutes before slicing or serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in juicier and more flavorful chicken.
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Add a Finishing Touch: Before serving, brush the grilled chicken breasts with a flavorful sauce or glaze for an extra burst of flavor. Whether it’s barbecue sauce, teriyaki sauce, or a simple herb butter, a finishing touch can take your grilled chicken to the next level.
If you like this recipe, check these out too!
Ninja Foodi Grill Juicy Grilled Chicken Breasts
Ninja Foodi Grill Juicy Grilled Chicken Breast are going to be the highlight of your week. Tender and juicy chicken that is flavored to perfection. Serve with any of your favorite side dishes and dinner is ready in no time!
Ingredients
- 4 Chicken Breasts
- 1/3 Cup Olive Oil
- 3 TBSP Soy Sauce
- 2 TBSP Balsamic Vinegar
- 1/4 Cup Brown Sugar
- 1 TBSP Worcestershire Sauce
- 3 TSP Minced Garlic
- salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a bowl mix together oil, soy sauce, balsamic vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire, garlic & salt & pepper. Set aside 1/4 cup for use later when serving.
- If your breasts are super thick and or uneven in thickness, put between saran wrap and beat until even and less thick.
- Poke breasts with a fork creating little pockets for the marinade to soak into.
- Put your breasts into the marinade and let marinade for at least 20 minutes.
- Insert removable cooking pot. Insert the grill grate into your pot.
- Press the grill button, set the temperature to MEDIUM, and set the time to 25 minutes.
- Once "Add Food" flashes, add chicken breasts onto the grill, and close the lid. After 8-10 minutes (depending on how thick) open the grill and flip the meat, closing the grill once again.
- Cook for another 5 minutes, open the lid and baste the chicken with more marinade.
- Cover and cook another 5 minutes. Start to check the internal temp to make sure you are not starting to overcook. You want to have an internal temp of 165 degrees.
- Flip meat one last time and baste one more time. Cook as long as needed until you reach your internal temp of 165 degrees.
- Allow meat to rest for 5 minutes before cutting and serving.
Notes
**To make this in your Ninja Foodi. Marinade and follow steps 1-4. Place crisper basket into your Foodi. Spritz your chicken breasts with a little avocado oil. Place in your crisper basket. Air Fry @370 degrees for approx 20 minutes flipping once after 10 minutes. Check internal temperature to check when your breasts are done.
Nutrition Information:
Yield:
4Serving Size:
1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 419Total Fat: 22gSaturated Fat: 4gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 17gCholesterol: 102mgSodium: 869mgCarbohydrates: 15gFiber: 0gSugar: 13gProtein: 38g
I’m Melissa, the imaginative force behind Sparkles to Sprinkles, where creativity comes to life, and sprinkles of joy are scattered generously. Melissa is a proud Jersey girl who found love with a New York boy. As a mom to four wonderful boys and a few fur babies, her journey into the world of blogging began after making the life-changing decision to stay home and raise her children. Previously a dedicated workaholic, Melissa’s blog became her creative outlet and passion project. Inspired by her mother-in-law, a masterful cook renowned for her delicious home-cooked meals and legendary holiday feasts (think mouthwatering sausage stuffing), Melissa honed her culinary skills through a combination of family recipes and countless cooking classes. She often attended these classes with her son Michael, who shared her enthusiasm for cooking from a young age. Melissa’s love for learning extends beyond familiar cuisines, as she enjoys exploring international recipes in hands-on cooking classes. Her blog features a diverse array of recipes, showcasing her expertise with various kitchen appliances such as the Instant Pot, air fryer, Slow Cooker, Ninja Foodi, Instant Vortex Plus, and more. Join Melissa on her culinary adventures as she shares tried-and-true family favorites alongside exciting new discoveries!
So very very good!!, I don’t have the Foodi Grill, but I do have the Foodi 8 qt. I didn’t pound the breasts down, just cut them in half lengthwise and marinated for 1 1/2 hrs. Cooked these on the rack on air crisp at 380Deg F for 10 minutes flipped lowered to temp to 360Deg F and set on air crisp additional for 8-10 minutes. So tasty, juicy and tender. Thank you so much. The reserved marinade works well on steamed veggies also.
You should not be using the reserved marinade on your vegetables. You marinated chicken which means raw chicken juice is in that liquid after they have been marinated. You could end up with salmonella. Please be careful.
Reserved means you withhold it *before* you marinade the chicken. Literally in reserve. So, it does not have raw chicken in or on it. Because you set it aside. Reserved. Before.
@Pam Kinnunen, thanks! I have the Foodi as well and followed your tips for cooking it and it came out perfect!
@Kathy,
She said reserved marinade. Meaning it hadn’t been used or touched the raw chicken.
I have enjoyed my Ninja Foodie. I bought my daughter one and had it shipped to her. I kept asking her how she liked it. She said; it does well heating things up. Her foodie came with NO FOODIE BOOK!!! This is my 2nd time reaching out to the company wanted them to send her the cookbook that is standard that comes with the Foodie! It depends on IF they respond whether I will buy one for my daughter in law.
@Peggy Brown, I don’t think it comes with a book. I got some charts with estimated times for cooking. I;m always searching online for recipes
I made these tonight. Absolutely delicious. Very easy. I made a huge batch to freeze & use later.
Where are the rest of the comments. I like to read what others say about a recipe.
This one sounds amazing.
Recipe and cooking instructions were right on! Thank you so much for this delicious recipe and definitely the perfect cooking guidance. Absolutely recommend.
Really enjoyed this recipe. Very tasty and moist. Thanks for sharing. (Substituted onion powder for minced garlic)
I am new to the Ninja Foodi. I choose recipes based off the looks of the pictures of the food. And, the chicken here looks YUM!
After marinating and starting the process… I realized my Ninja did not come with a Grate Grill… it’s actually an extra purchase. I am sooooo disappointed. Really wanted these grilled. There should be a disclaimer at the top that you need the additional Grill Grate.
I do see someone used in the crisper, so I will try that.
*I googled Ninja Foodi recipes and I didn’t realize the word “grill” was part of the Ninja title…
I will have to be more aware in the future.
Yes I am so sorry. This recipe is for the ninja Foodi grill. It can get confusing with all the various appliances.
I just received my Ninja Foodi, and am looking for recipes. The instruction booklet specifically stated to avoid olive oil, because of its low burn temp. Your recipe calls for olive oil. Do you find it is actually okay to use olive oil regularly in the Foodie, then? I can use Avocado oil if need be, but olive oil is so much more common that it eight certainly be handier. Thoughts?
Avocado is the preference but yes you can certainly use olive oil.
@April Rose, I’m in the uk and use rapseed oil with my ninja(s) XL & foodie every time. Generally marketed in the UK as very cheap vegetable oil but ingredients show 100% uk rapeseed.
Its not as trendy as the others but out of all of the vegetable based oils recommended for high heat it’s reported to have the least amount of saturated fats.
I bought a nifty fine mist oil sprayer to use with my ninja as it gives best coverage with least oil. Enjoy your Ninja, I haven’t used my oven since I bought my first about 3 years ago.
Love it. Excellent marinade for my chicken in the ninja foodi. I’ve used this recipe multiple times now and the chicken always comes out scrumptious. If the chicken is a little thin on the edges, they might get a tad bit burnt on air fry but I usually just snap off those edges and the overall flavor is fine. I will keep coming back this recipe. Thank you!
Excellent! My son and I did the recipe exactly as prescribed and they came out perfect! Super juicy and not dry the marinade was amazing! Thank you!
So very happy to read this. Thank you for sharing your sweetness and kind words.
I’m assuming recipe is for boneless skinless chicken breast?
Yes, I am so sorry
I made this in Ninja Foodie grill. I had only I chicken breast so it cooked quicker. Very tasty and moist. This recipe set off my smoke detector!