Summer is the perfect time to fire up the grill and enjoy outdoor cooking with family and friends. The Ninja Outdoor Woodfire Pro XL offers versatility, combining grilling, smoking, air frying, and oven baking all in one portable unit.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to craft delicious smoked BBQ chicken, step-by-step, making the most of this powerful outdoor appliance for your summer cookouts.
Our top pick at a glance
Ninja Outdoor Woodfire Pro XL Grill & Smoker
- ✔ Weight: Approx. 40 lbs
- ✔ Dimensions: L 24 x W 20 x H 17 inches
- ✔ Temperature Range: 225°F to 500°F
Ninja | Grill & Smoker | Outdoor Woodfire Pro XL | 4 in 1 Grill, BBQ Smoker, Air Fryer & Bake | Portable | Includes Built in Thermometer & 2 Woodfire Pellet Packs | Dark Grey | OG850
4-in-1 Functionality: Combines a Woodfire Grill, BBQ Smoker, Outdoor Air Fryer, and Oven in one compact, electric unit....
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Preparing the Ninja Outdoor Woodfire Pro XL for Smoking
Start by placing your Ninja Outdoor Woodfire Pro XL on a stable, ventilated surface outdoors. Ensure it’s clean and preheated to the desired temperature for smoking, typically around 225°F.
Use wood chips or chunks suitable for smoking to add rich flavor. Soak the chips in water for about 30 minutes if you prefer a slower, more aromatic smoke. Place the wood directly in the designated smoker tray.
Set the grill to the smoker mode and preheat for 10-15 minutes to ensure an even temperature before adding your chicken.
Preparing the Chicken for Smoking
Choose bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces like thighs or breasts for best flavor and moisture. Pat them dry with paper towels to ensure the rub sticks well.
Apply a generous layer of your favorite BBQ rub, covering all sides. For added moisture, you can marinate the chicken ahead of time or inject it with a flavored marinade.
Let the chicken sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before placing it in the smoker to promote even cooking.
Smoking and Cooking the Chicken
Place the chicken pieces on the grill’s cooking surface, ensuring they are not overcrowded to allow proper smoke circulation. Close the lid and set the timer for about 2-3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Maintain a consistent smoker temperature throughout the process. Check periodically to add more wood chips if needed, and monitor the internal temperature with a probe thermometer.
For a crispy skin, you can increase the temperature to 375°F for the last 10-15 minutes of cooking.
Finishing and Serving Your Smoked Chicken
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the smoker and let it rest for 10 minutes. This helps retain juices and ensures tender bites.
Serve with your favorite summer sides like coleslaw, grilled vegetables, or corn on the cob for a complete outdoor feast.
Enjoy your smoky, flavorful chicken, perfect for backyard barbecues and summer gatherings.
More Details on Our Top Picks
Ninja Outdoor Woodfire Pro XL Grill & Smoker
The Ninja Outdoor Woodfire Pro XL is a versatile, 4-in-1 outdoor cooker that’s perfect for summer BBQs. Its ability to smoke, grill, air fry, and bake makes it a must-have for outdoor cooking enthusiasts looking for convenience and flavor.
Pros:
- Multi-function 4-in-1 design
- Portable and easy to set up
- Great for smoking and grilling
Cons:
- Limited cooking space for large groups
- Learning curve for optimal smoke flavor
- Requires outdoor setup and ventilation
Best for: Home chefs wanting a versatile outdoor cooking experience for summer gatherings
Not ideal for: Indoor use or for those with limited outdoor space
Bottom line: A versatile and portable outdoor grill and smoker, ideal for flavorful summer barbecues.
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