Have you ever wondered how to cook a whole chicken in your Ninja Multi Cooker? Look no further, because we have the perfect recipe for you! Cooking a whole chicken may seem intimidating at first, but with the help of your trusty Ninja Multi Cooker, it’s actually quite simple and convenient. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just want a delicious and nutritious meal for your family, this recipe will not disappoint.
To begin, you’ll need a whole chicken, about 4-5 pounds, and some basic seasonings. We recommend using a combination of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika to enhance the flavor of the chicken. Don’t be afraid to get creative and experiment with other spices that you enjoy!
Once you have your chicken and seasonings ready, it’s time to prepare your Ninja Multi Cooker. Make sure the pot is clean and dry, and then place the chicken in the pot, breast side up. Sprinkle the seasonings generously all over the chicken, making sure to cover both the inside and outside. This will ensure that the flavors penetrate the meat and create a deliciously seasoned chicken.
Now it’s time to cook the chicken in the Ninja Multi Cooker. Set the cooker to the “Pressure Cook” function and select the cooking time according to the weight of your chicken. As a general rule of thumb, cook the chicken for 6 minutes per pound. For example, if your chicken weighs 4 pounds, you would set the cooking time to 24 minutes.
Once the cooking time is up, allow the pressure to release naturally for about 10 minutes before opening the lid. This will ensure that the chicken is cooked through and tender. Carefully remove the chicken from the Ninja Multi Cooker and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. The result will be a perfectly cooked, juicy, and flavorful whole chicken that will impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds.
So, why wait? Dust off your Ninja Multi Cooker and get ready to cook a mouthwatering whole chicken that will be the star of your next meal. With its versatility and convenience, the Ninja Multi Cooker is truly a game-changer in the kitchen. Try this recipe today and enjoy a delicious, hassle-free cooking experience!
Preparation for Cooking Whole Chicken
Before you begin cooking a whole chicken in your Ninja Multi Cooker, it’s important to properly prepare the chicken for the best results. Follow these steps to ensure a delicious and juicy chicken:
- Thaw the chicken if it’s frozen. Place it in the refrigerator and allow it to thaw for 24 hours per 2.27 kg (5 pounds) of chicken.
- Remove any giblets or organs that may be inside the chicken. Check both the cavity and the neck cavity for these parts.
- Rinse the chicken under cold water to remove any excess blood or other impurities.
- Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to remove any remaining moisture.
- Season the chicken with your desired spices and seasonings. You can use a pre-made rub or create your own mix of herbs, salt, and pepper.
- Let the seasoned chicken sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
Once you have completed these preparation steps, you are ready to start cooking your whole chicken in the Ninja Multi Cooker. The preparation process ensures that the chicken is thawed, cleaned, and seasoned, resulting in a delicious and flavorful meal.
Gather Ingredients and Tools
Before you start cooking your whole chicken in the Ninja Multi Cooker, make sure you have all the necessary ingredients and tools. Here’s what you’ll need:
Ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken (about 4-5 pounds)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Your choice of herbs and spices
Tools:
- Ninja Multi Cooker
- Trivet or steamer rack
- Tongs or a meat thermometer
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring spoons
Having all the necessary ingredients and tools ready beforehand will make the cooking process smoother and more efficient. Make sure your Ninja Multi Cooker is clean and in good working condition. Having a trivet or steamer rack is essential to elevate the chicken and prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot. Tongs or a meat thermometer will help you handle the chicken and ensure it reaches the proper internal temperature for safe consumption.
Additionally, having a sharp knife and cutting board will come in handy when preparing the chicken, such as removing excess fat or giblets. Lastly, measuring spoons will help you accurately season the chicken with salt, pepper, and any desired herbs and spices.
Now that you have gathered all your ingredients and tools, it’s time to move on to the next step: preparing the chicken.
Clean and Season Chicken
Before cooking a whole chicken in the Ninja Multi Cooker, it’s important to clean and season the chicken to enhance its flavor. Follow these steps to ensure a delicious and well-seasoned chicken:
Cleaning the Chicken
- Start by removing the chicken from its packaging and discard any giblets or organs that may be inside the cavity.
- Rinse the chicken thoroughly under cold water to remove any excess blood and debris.
- Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture.
Seasoning the Chicken
Seasoning the chicken is essential for adding flavor to the meat. Here’s how you can do it:
- Season the chicken generously with salt and pepper, both inside and outside the cavity.
- Add your choice of herbs and spices to enhance the flavor. Some popular options include thyme, rosemary, garlic powder, paprika, and onion powder.
- Gently massage the seasonings into the chicken, ensuring that it covers the entire surface.
- If you have time, let the chicken sit in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
Once the chicken is cleaned and seasoned, it’s ready to be cooked in the Ninja Multi Cooker. Follow the remaining instructions in the article to complete the cooking process and enjoy a deliciously tender and flavorful whole chicken.
Cooking Process
When it comes to cooking a whole chicken in a Ninja Multi Cooker, the process is quite straightforward and efficient. Here, we will outline the step-by-step instructions to achieve perfectly cooked chicken:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by cleaning the whole chicken thoroughly under running water. Pat it dry using paper towels to remove any excess moisture. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings, both on the outside and inside the cavity.
Step 2: Preheat the Ninja Multi Cooker
Place the Ninja Multi Cooker pot into the base and plug it in. Set the cooker to the desired cooking function, such as “Roast” or “Slow Cook.” Adjust the temperature accordingly. Allow the cooker to preheat for a few minutes before proceeding.
Step 3: Sear the Chicken
Before cooking the chicken, it is recommended to sear it to enhance the flavors and create a crispy skin. Select the “Sear/Sauté” function on the Ninja Multi Cooker and heat up some oil or butter. Carefully place the seasoned chicken into the pot and sear it on all sides until golden brown. This step should take approximately 5-7 minutes.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Once the chicken is seared, select the desired cooking function, such as “Roast” or “Slow Cook,” and adjust the temperature accordingly. Cover the Ninja Multi Cooker with its lid and let the chicken cook for the recommended time. The cooking time may vary depending on the size of the chicken, but an average cooking time is approximately 20 minutes per pound at 375°F (190°C).
Step 5: Check for Doneness
To ensure the chicken is fully cooked, insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken, avoiding contact with bones. The internal temperature should read 165°F (74°C) for the chicken to be safe to consume. If the desired temperature is reached, carefully remove the chicken from the Ninja Multi Cooker and let it rest for a few minutes before carving and serving.
Following this simple cooking process in your Ninja Multi Cooker will result in a deliciously cooked whole chicken with moist and tender meat. Enjoy!
Set Up Ninja Multi Cooker
Before cooking a whole chicken in the Ninja Multi Cooker, it is important to properly set up the appliance to ensure the best results. Follow these steps to set up your Ninja Multi Cooker:
- Unbox the Ninja Multi Cooker and remove all packaging materials.
- Place the Multi Cooker on a stable and heat-resistant surface, such as a countertop or table.
- Check that the inner pot is clean and dry.
- Ensure the silicone gasket is properly placed on the inner pot to create a tight seal. This will prevent steam from escaping during cooking.
- Attach the power cord to the back of the Multi Cooker and plug it into a power outlet.
- Press the “Power” button on the control panel to turn on the Ninja Multi Cooker. The display will light up, indicating that it is ready for use.
- Select the desired cooking function by pressing the corresponding button on the control panel. For cooking a whole chicken, choose the “Pressure Cook” function.
- Adjust the cooking time and temperature as needed using the “+” and “-” buttons on the control panel. Consult the recipe or the user manual for specific cooking instructions.
- Place the prepared whole chicken into the inner pot of the Multi Cooker. Make sure it is properly positioned and not overcrowded.
- Close the lid of the Multi Cooker and secure it by turning it clockwise until it locks into place.
- Ensure the pressure release valve is set to the “Seal” position to build pressure during cooking.
- Once the Multi Cooker reaches the desired pressure, the cooking process will begin. Monitor the cooking time on the display and wait for the chicken to cook thoroughly.
- After the cooking cycle is complete, carefully release the pressure by turning the pressure release valve to the “Vent” position. Be cautious of the hot steam that will be released.
- Once the pressure is fully released, remove the lid and use kitchen tongs or a meat thermometer to check if the chicken is fully cooked.
- Carefully remove the cooked chicken from the Multi Cooker using kitchen utensils and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Clean the Ninja Multi Cooker according to the manufacturer’s instructions to maintain its performance and prolong its lifespan.
By following these steps, you can easily set up your Ninja Multi Cooker to cook a delicious whole chicken. Enjoy your homemade meal!
Place Chicken in Multi Cooker
Once you have prepared your whole chicken by cleaning and seasoning it, it’s time to place it in your Ninja Multi Cooker.
Before placing the chicken in the multi cooker, make sure to insert the roasting rack. This will elevate the chicken off the bottom of the cooker, allowing for even cooking and preventing it from sticking to the bottom.
Once the roasting rack is in place, carefully place the seasoned chicken onto the rack, breast side up. Make sure the chicken is centered and not touching the sides of the cooker to ensure proper airflow and cooking.
Additional Seasonings and Ingredients
If desired, you can add additional seasonings and ingredients to enhance the flavor of the chicken. Some popular options include:
Herbs | – such as rosemary, thyme, or sage – can be sprinkled on top of the chicken for added aroma. |
Lemon or Onion | – placing slices of lemon or onion inside the cavity of the chicken can infuse it with a tangy or sweet flavor. |
Garlic | – cloves of garlic can be placed around the chicken or inserted into slits in the meat for a savory taste. |
Butter or Cooking Oil | – rubbing the chicken with butter or cooking oil can help achieve a crispy skin. |
Once any additional seasonings and ingredients are added, you’re ready to start the cooking process. Follow the instructions on your Ninja Multi Cooker for setting the appropriate cooking time and temperature.
Now that the chicken is placed in the multi cooker and seasoned to your liking, you can sit back and let the Ninja Multi Cooker work its magic to deliver a perfectly cooked whole chicken.
Set Cooking Time and Temperature
Once you have prepared your whole chicken and placed it in the Ninja Multi Cooker, it’s time to set the cooking time and temperature. The correct cooking time and temperature will ensure that your chicken is cooked thoroughly and without any risk of undercooking or overcooking.
To set the cooking time, refer to your recipe or follow the general guidelines for cooking a whole chicken in the Ninja Multi Cooker. Typically, a cooking time of 25-30 minutes per pound of chicken is recommended. Keep in mind that the cooking time may vary depending on the weight and size of the chicken.
Next, set the cooking temperature. The Ninja Multi Cooker offers various temperature options, such as low, medium, and high. For cooking a whole chicken, it is recommended to cook it on the high temperature setting to ensure that it reaches the safe internal temperature.
Safe Internal Temperature for Chicken
It is crucial to cook the whole chicken to a safe internal temperature to ensure it is fully cooked and free from any harmful bacteria. The recommended internal temperature for chicken is 165°F (74°C). To measure the internal temperature, use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the chicken, avoiding any bones.
Once the chicken reaches the desired internal temperature, you can be confident that it is cooked thoroughly and safe to consume. The Ninja Multi Cooker’s high temperature setting will help achieve this temperature efficiently.
After setting the cooking time and temperature, simply press the start button on your Ninja Multi Cooker, and it will begin the cooking process. Take this time to prepare any side dishes or sauces that will complement your perfectly cooked whole chicken.
FAQ
What is a Ninja Multi Cooker?
A Ninja Multi Cooker is a versatile kitchen appliance that can perform multiple cooking functions such as pressure cooking, slow cooking, steaming, and roasting. It is designed to be a convenient all-in-one cooking solution.
How long does it take to cook a whole chicken in a Ninja Multi Cooker?
The cooking time for a whole chicken in a Ninja Multi Cooker can vary depending on the size of the chicken, but on average it takes about 30-40 minutes under pressure cooking mode. However, additional time may be required for preheating and natural pressure release.