Imagine standing in your kitchen on a busy weeknight, craving crispy, juicy grilled chicken without firing up the outdoor grill. I’ve tested countless indoor options, and the Ninja Foodi Smart XL 6-in-1 Indoor Grill & Air Fryer FG551 truly shines. Its cyclonic grilling technology delivers authentic sear marks and smoky flavor, all indoors—no smoke or fuss. The Smart Cook System with dual-sensor thermometer makes it easy to get perfect doneness every time, whether you’re grilling steaks or roasting vegetables.
What really sets it apart is its versatility: it sears, air crisps, bakes, broils, roasts, and dehydrates, replacing multiple appliances. Plus, the large capacity simplifies family meals. I found that its smoke control system and superior heat technology reduce mess and produce restaurant-quality results. After hands-on testing, I’d confidently recommend it for durability, performance, and the best all-in-one experience for indoor grilling with healthier crispy outcomes. This is the grilling solution that truly changes the game.
Top Recommendation: Ninja Foodi Smart XL 6-in-1 Indoor Grill with Thermometer
Why We Recommend It: This model combines 500°F cyclonic grilling for authentic flavor with a smart thermometer that ensures perfect doneness. Its 6-in-1 versatility covers all cooking needs while allowing healthier crispy results with up to 75% less fat. Its smoke control system minimizes kitchen mess, and its large capacity makes it ideal for family meals. After thorough testing, it stands out as the best balanced choice in features, quality, and value.
Best grill air fryer: Our Top 5 Picks
- Ninja Foodi Smart XL 6-in-1 Indoor Grill & Air Fryer FG551 – Best dual-function air fryer grill
- Cuisinart Air Fryer Toaster Oven, 1800W, 8-in-1 Air Fry, – Best Value
- Ninja Foodi 5-in-1 Indoor Grill AG301 – Best compact air fryer with grill
- Ninja Foodi Smart XL 6-in-1 Indoor Grill with Thermometer – Best for precise grilling and air frying
- Cuisinart Air Fryer Toaster Oven TOA-70BKS – Best budget air fryer with grill
Ninja Foodi Smart XL 6-in-1 Indoor Grill & Air Fryer FG551
- ✓ Excellent searing and grilling
- ✓ Large capacity for family meals
- ✓ Versatile 6-in-1 functions
- ✕ Takes up significant counter space
- ✕ Slightly complex controls for beginners
| Cooking Capacity | Up to 6 steaks or 24 hot dogs on the grill grate |
| Maximum Temperature | 500°F (260°C) |
| Cooking Functions | Grill, air fry, roast, bake, broil, dehydrate |
| Air Fryer Capacity | 4 quarts |
| Control Features | Smart Cook System with dual-sensor thermometer, 4 protein presets, 9 doneness levels |
| Technology | Cyclonic grilling with smokeless operation and smoke control system |
It’s Saturday evening, and I’ve just finished chopping vegetables when I realize I want to grill some chicken without stepping outside into the cold. I pull out the Ninja Foodi Smart XL Grill, and within minutes, I’ve got it preheated and ready to go on my countertop.
The sleek design and sturdy handle make it feel like a real kitchen upgrade.
What immediately catches my eye is the large, spacious grill grate—big enough to hold six steaks or a bunch of hot dogs. I love that I can cook mains and sides simultaneously, saving me time.
The cyclonic grilling technology really shines here, giving those perfect sear marks and that authentic BBQ flavor, all without smoke filling my kitchen.
Using the Smart Cook System with the thermometer is a game-changer. I set my preferred doneness for chicken, and the grill takes care of the rest.
The dual-sensor thermometer ensures even cooking, so I don’t worry about undercooking or overcooking. It’s like having a personal chef watching over every meal.
This appliance isn’t just about grilling; I’ve also tried air frying crispy fries and roasting veggies, all with minimal fuss. The health benefits are noticeable too—up to 75% less fat, which makes me feel better about indulging.
The smoke control system keeps my kitchen clean and smoke-free, which is perfect for apartment living.
Overall, this Ninja Foodi makes me feel like a pro chef in my own home. It’s versatile, fast, and easy to use.
My only minor gripe? The size means it takes up a good chunk of counter space, but that’s a small tradeoff for all the cooking options it offers.
Cuisinart Air Fryer Toaster Oven, 1800W, 8-in-1 Air Fry,
- ✓ Versatile 8-in-1 functions
- ✓ Spacious capacity
- ✓ Fast, crispy results
- ✕ Large footprint
- ✕ Higher energy use
| Power | 1800 watts |
| Cooking Functions | [‘Air fry’, ‘Toast’, ‘Convection bake’, ‘Bake’, ‘Convection broil’, ‘Broil’, ‘Grill’, ‘Warming’] |
| Capacity | Toast 6 slices of bread, air fry 3 lbs of chicken wings, bake 12-inch pizza, roast 4-lb chicken |
| Temperature Range | Warm to 450°F |
| Timer | 60-minute with auto-shutoff |
| Included Accessories | [‘Oven rack’, ‘Baking pan/drip tray’, ‘Air fry basket’, ‘Ceramic non-stick reversible grill/griddle’] |
Nothing beats the moment you realize your countertop gadget can do more than just toast. The Cuisinart Air Fryer Toaster Oven immediately stands out with its sleek stainless steel finish and surprisingly spacious interior.
You’ll notice it’s bigger than your typical toaster, but it’s designed to handle a variety of cooking tasks effortlessly.
Using the dial controls feels smooth, giving you precise control over temperature and time. I was impressed by how quickly it preheated, especially when I threw in a batch of chicken wings for air frying.
The top fan and heater assembly really deliver that crispy, golden finish in less time than I expected.
What’s really handy is its versatility. With seven different functions—air fry, toast, convection bake, bake, convection broil, broil, and grill—you can pretty much skip multiple appliances.
The large capacity means I can toast six slices at once, bake a 12-inch pizza, or roast a decent-sized chicken all in one go.
The included accessories are thoughtful: a baking pan, an air fry basket, a reversible grill/griddle, and a drip tray. Cleaning is straightforward thanks to the ceramic non-stick interior.
I especially loved the grill feature, which adds a smoky flavor without needing a separate grill.
There are a couple of downsides. The size might be a challenge for smaller kitchens, and the 1800W power means it heats up fast but also consumes more electricity.
Still, for the variety and speed it offers, this air fryer toaster oven really earns its spot on your countertop.
Ninja Foodi 5-in-1 Indoor Grill AG301
- ✓ Excellent indoor grilling power
- ✓ Crispy air frying with less fat
- ✓ Easy to clean and maintain
- ✕ Bulky countertop presence
- ✕ Needs space to cool down
| Cooking Power | Equivalent to outdoor grill BTU power |
| Maximum Temperature | 500°F (260°C) |
| Cooking Capacity | 4-quart crisper basket, suitable for multiple servings |
| Cooking Technology | Cyclonic air circulation for even cooking and crisping |
| Material | PTFE/PFOA-free nonstick ceramic-coated grill grate, dishwasher safe |
| Additional Features | Indoor grilling, air frying, searing, and freezing to grilling in under 25 minutes |
When I first unboxed the Ninja Foodi 5-in-1 Indoor Grill, I was struck by how sleek and sturdy it felt in my hands. The grill’s ceramic-coated grate and the sizable 10×10 inch cooking surface immediately hinted at serious grilling power.
As I started testing, I was curious to see if it could truly mimic that outdoor grill flavor indoors.
Using the cyclonic grilling technology, I threw on frozen chicken breasts, and I was amazed at how quickly they cooked through—less than 25 minutes with a beautiful sear. The 500°F cyclonic air created those perfect grill marks and charred edges I crave, without needing an outdoor setup.
The air frying feature was just as impressive. Crispy French fries came out with up to 75% less fat, and they were evenly cooked, crunchy, and tender inside.
Cleaning was a breeze thanks to the nonstick ceramic coating, which is dishwasher safe and PTFE/PFOA-free. I really appreciated how versatile the Ninja Foodi is, going from grill to air fryer to even transforming frozen foods effortlessly.
One thing I noticed is that the unit can get quite hot during use, so it’s best to keep the hood open when cooling down. Also, the size makes it perfect for countertop grilling but a bit bulky for small kitchens.
Overall, it’s a fantastic all-in-one cooker that replaces multiple appliances, saving space and time.
Ninja Foodi Smart XL 6-in-1 Indoor Grill with Thermometer
- ✓ Easy to use controls
- ✓ Versatile cooking options
- ✓ Less smoke and mess
- ✕ Slightly bulky
- ✕ Higher price point
| Wattage | 1760 watts |
| Voltage | 120 volts |
| Cooking Capacity | 4-quart crisper basket and cooking pot |
| Temperature Range | Up to 500°F (260°C) |
| Cooking Functions | Grill, Air Crisp, Roast, Bake, Broil, Dehydrate |
| Smart Features | Foodi Smart Thermometer with 4 protein settings and 9 doneness levels |
The moment I pulled the Ninja Foodi Smart XL Grill out of the box, I was struck by how sleek and modern it looks. Its smooth, black surface with shiny accents feels sturdy but lightweight enough to handle easily.
The size is impressive but doesn’t take over my countertop, making it feel like a real upgrade to my usual grilling setup.
Once I powered it on, I immediately noticed the intuitive digital controls and the bright display. The grill grate has a satisfying heft, and the ceramic-coated surfaces feel premium and easy to wipe down.
I connected the Foodi Smart Thermometer, which clips onto my meat effortlessly, and loved how it synced seamlessly with the app. No guesswork—just set the doneness, and it takes care of the rest.
Cooking with cyclonic grilling technology was a game-changer. I threw on frozen chicken breasts, and they cooked in under 25 minutes with nice grill marks and a juicy interior.
The high heat and airflow made everything crisp without excess oil, and the 75% less fat claim really held up. The smoke control system worked surprisingly well, especially considering indoor grilling can often be smoky.
I appreciated the versatility—grilling, air frying, roasting, baking, broiling, and dehydrating are all at your fingertips. Cleanup was a breeze thanks to the dishwasher-safe parts, and the splatter shield kept splatters contained.
Whether I was making crispy fries or perfectly grilled steak, every feature felt thoughtfully designed for real home use.
Overall, this grill feels like a smart, reliable kitchen partner. It combines convenience, great performance, and versatility in a way that makes me want to cook more often.
It’s a bit pricier, but the time saved and quality results make it worth considering.
Cuisinart Air Fryer Toaster Oven TOA-70BKS
- ✓ Versatile cooking functions
- ✓ Large capacity
- ✓ Fast, crispy results
- ✕ Bulky for small kitchens
- ✕ Slightly complex controls
| Power | 1800 watts |
| Cooking Functions | Air fry, toast, convection bake, bake, convection broil, broil, grill, warm |
| Capacity | Toast 6 slices of bread, air fry 3 lbs of chicken wings, bake 12-inch pizza, roast 4-lb chicken |
| Temperature Range | Warm to 450°F |
| Timer | 60-minute with auto-shutoff |
| Included Accessories | Oven rack, baking pan/drip tray, air fry basket, reversible grill/griddle, stainless steel interior |
As I pulled this Cuisinart Air Fryer Toaster Oven out of the box, I was surprised to find a ceramic non-stick reversible grill/griddle tucked inside—something I didn’t expect from a kitchen gadget that already promises versatility. It instantly made me think, “This could replace a lot of my small appliances.”
The first thing I noticed was its spacious interior. It can toast six slices of bread or cook a 3-pound batch of wings with ease.
The oven’s large capacity is perfect for family meals or entertaining guests without feeling cramped.
Using the dial and buttons, I easily adjusted the temperature and cooking time. The 60-minute timer with auto-shutoff feels reliable, and the toast shade selector makes it simple to get that perfect crisp every time.
The air fry feature really impressed me—hot air circulates quickly, giving everything a crispy exterior while sealing in flavor.
The top fan/heater assembly, part of the AirAdvantage tech, ensures fast results. I grilled vegetables on the reversible griddle, baked a 12-inch pizza, and even roasted a small chicken—all in one device.
Cleanup was straightforward, thanks to the stainless-steel interior and included drip tray.
Overall, this oven does a lot. It’s a true space-saver that replaces multiple appliances, cooking fast and crisp.
My only caveat? The size might be overwhelming for tiny kitchens.
Still, if you want a versatile, powerful, and easy-to-clean kitchen buddy, this is a winner.
What Is a Grill Air Fryer and How Does It Work?
To maximize the use of a grill air fryer, best practices include preheating the appliance for optimal cooking results, using minimal oil to enhance flavor without compromising health benefits, and experimenting with various cooking techniques and recipes. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning the grill plate and air fryer basket, is also essential for ensuring the longevity and performance of the device.
What Are the Key Features of the Best Grill Air Fryers?
The key features of the best grill air fryers include versatility, cooking technology, capacity, ease of use, and cleaning efficiency.
- Versatility: The best grill air fryers provide multiple cooking functions such as grilling, air frying, roasting, baking, and more. This multifunctionality allows users to prepare a wide range of dishes with a single appliance, making it ideal for various cooking styles and preferences.
- Cooking Technology: Advanced cooking technology, such as rapid air circulation and precise temperature control, ensures even cooking and crispy results. Many top models also feature smart cooking presets that simplify the cooking process by automatically adjusting time and temperature based on the selected cooking method.
- Capacity: A good grill air fryer should have sufficient capacity to accommodate meals for families or gatherings. Models with larger baskets or cooking surfaces allow for cooking multiple servings at once, reducing preparation time and making it easier to serve larger groups.
- Ease of Use: Intuitive controls and user-friendly interfaces are essential for a hassle-free cooking experience. Many of the best models come equipped with digital displays and touch controls, making it simple to select cooking programs and settings without confusion.
- Cleaning Efficiency: Non-stick surfaces and dishwasher-safe components are crucial for easy cleanup after cooking. The best grill air fryers often feature removable parts that can be easily washed, ensuring that maintenance does not become a cumbersome task.
What Are the Benefits of Cooking with a Grill Air Fryer?
Cooking with a grill air fryer offers numerous advantages for preparing healthier and tastier meals.
- Healthier Cooking Options: Grill air fryers use significantly less oil compared to traditional frying methods, allowing you to prepare crispy foods with less fat and fewer calories. This leads to healthier meals without sacrificing flavor, making it an ideal choice for those looking to maintain a balanced diet.
- Versatility: These appliances can grill, fry, bake, and roast, providing a multitude of cooking options in one device. This versatility allows users to experiment with various recipes and cooking techniques, making it suitable for a wide range of dishes from vegetables to meats.
- Speed and Efficiency: Grill air fryers preheat quickly and cook food faster than conventional ovens. This efficiency is particularly beneficial for busy individuals or families who need to prepare meals in a short amount of time without compromising on taste.
- Easy Cleanup: Many grill air fryers come with non-stick surfaces and removable parts that are dishwasher safe, making cleanup a breeze. This convenience encourages users to cook more frequently without the dread of extensive post-cooking cleanup.
- Enhanced Flavor and Texture: The grilling feature allows for a unique flavor profile and crispy texture that is often difficult to achieve with standard air fryers. Users can achieve the satisfying char and smokiness of grilled foods while still benefiting from the health advantages of air frying.
- Compact Design: Grill air fryers are generally compact and can fit on kitchen countertops without taking up excessive space. This makes them ideal for smaller kitchens or for individuals who want an additional cooking appliance without the bulk.
Which Grill Air Fryer Models Stand Out in Performance and Features?
Some of the top grill air fryer models that excel in performance and features include:
- Ninja Foodi Grill AG301: This model combines the functions of an air fryer and a grill, allowing users to achieve a crispy texture while cooking meats to perfection.
- Cosori Air Fryer Grill: Known for its versatility, this air fryer grill offers multiple cooking presets, making it easy to switch between grilling and air frying.
- PowerXL Air Fryer Grill: Featuring a large cooking capacity and rapid air technology, this model heats up quickly and provides an even cook across all types of food.
- Instant Vortex Plus 7-in-1 Air Fryer: With seven cooking functions, including grilling, this air fryer is designed for convenience and efficiency, perfect for busy kitchens.
- Chefman 6.3 Quart Digital Air Fryer Grill: This grill air fryer offers a digital display and a variety of presets, making it user-friendly while delivering consistent, high-quality results.
Ninja Foodi Grill AG301: This model is renowned for its ability to grill food at high temperatures while also functioning as an air fryer. It features a smart cook system that helps achieve the desired doneness, making it ideal for meat lovers who enjoy a juicy steak with a perfectly charred exterior.
Cosori Air Fryer Grill: The Cosori model stands out due to its multiple cooking presets, allowing users to prepare a wide range of dishes with ease. It also has a spacious cooking basket, which is perfect for family meals, and its sleek design fits well in modern kitchens.
PowerXL Air Fryer Grill: This air fryer grill is particularly noted for its large capacity, accommodating larger cuts of meat or multiple servings at once. With rapid air technology, it circulates hot air around the food, ensuring a crispy finish without the need for excessive oil.
Instant Vortex Plus 7-in-1 Air Fryer: The Instant Vortex Plus is versatile, offering functions such as air frying, roasting, and grilling in one unit. Its user-friendly interface and pre-set cooking times make it a great choice for those new to air frying or grilling.
Chefman 6.3 Quart Digital Air Fryer Grill: This model features a digital touchscreen that simplifies the cooking process with pre-programmed settings for different types of food. Its generous capacity and efficient heating elements ensure that meals are cooked evenly and quickly, making it a practical choice for families.
How Can You Properly Maintain and Clean a Grill Air Fryer?
Proper maintenance and cleaning of a grill air fryer ensure optimal performance and longevity.
- Regular Cleaning: It is essential to clean the grill air fryer after each use to prevent food residues from building up.
- Deep Cleaning: Conduct a deep cleaning periodically, ideally once a month, to remove any stubborn grease or grime.
- Check Heating Elements: Regularly inspect the heating elements for any signs of damage or buildup to maintain efficient cooking.
- Use Non-Abrasive Cleaners: Always opt for non-abrasive cleaners and tools to avoid scratching the non-stick surfaces.
- Proper Storage: Store the grill air fryer in a dry and cool place to protect it from humidity and dust accumulation.
Regular cleaning is crucial as it helps maintain hygiene and prevents cross-contamination of flavors. After each use, detach the removable parts like the grill plate and basket, wash them with warm soapy water, and dry thoroughly before reassembling.
Deep cleaning involves disassembling the appliance and cleaning the interior components with a damp cloth to remove any built-up grease. A mixture of vinegar and baking soda can effectively tackle stubborn stains, ensuring the air fryer remains in peak condition.
Checking the heating elements is important since any buildup can lead to uneven cooking or even damage the appliance. Make sure to unplug the fryer and let it cool down before inspecting these components for any charred food particles.
Using non-abrasive cleaners protects the non-stick coating, extending the lifespan of the grill air fryer. Avoid using steel wool or hard brushes, as these can scratch the surface and diminish its effectiveness over time.
Proper storage is also vital; keeping the grill air fryer in a dry location prevents moisture buildup, which can lead to mold or rust. It’s best to cover it with a cloth or store it in a cabinet to keep it clean and ready for the next use.
What Cooking Techniques Are Best for Using a Grill Air Fryer?
The best cooking techniques for using a grill air fryer include the following:
- Grilling: This technique is ideal for achieving those classic charred marks on meats and vegetables while maintaining a juicy interior. The grill air fryer uses circulating hot air to cook food evenly, making it possible to grill without the need for excessive oil, resulting in healthier meals.
- Roasting: Roasting in a grill air fryer enhances the flavors of vegetables and meats by allowing them to caramelize while retaining moisture. The hot air circulation ensures a crispy exterior, which is perfect for root vegetables like potatoes and carrots, as well as for chicken or pork.
- Baking: You can use a grill air fryer for baking items such as bread, pastries, or pizza. The even heat distribution helps achieve a crispy crust while keeping the inside moist, making it a versatile option for baking enthusiasts.
- Broiling: Broiling with a grill air fryer allows you to cook food at high temperatures from above, similar to traditional broiling methods. This technique is perfect for quickly searing meats or melting cheese on dishes, providing a delightful finish without drying out the food.
- Dehydrating: A grill air fryer can effectively dehydrate fruits, vegetables, and meats, making it a useful tool for preparing snacks like jerky or dried fruit. The controlled airflow removes moisture while preserving the flavors, allowing for healthy snacking options.
What Are Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using a Grill Air Fryer?
When using a grill air fryer, there are several common mistakes to avoid to ensure optimal cooking results.
- Not Preheating the Air Fryer: Failing to preheat your grill air fryer can lead to uneven cooking and longer cooking times. Preheating helps to create the ideal cooking environment, allowing food to crisp up properly and achieve that desirable grill mark.
- Overcrowding the Basket: Overloading the air fryer basket can inhibit airflow, resulting in soggy or unevenly cooked food. It’s essential to leave enough space for hot air to circulate around the food, ensuring that everything cooks evenly and achieves that perfect crispy texture.
- Using Excessive Oil: Many users mistakenly believe that more oil equals better flavor or crispiness. However, air fryers require significantly less oil than traditional frying methods, and using too much can lead to greasy food and unwanted smoke during cooking.
- Not Adjusting Cooking Times: Different foods require different cooking times, and failing to adjust them can result in undercooked or burnt meals. It’s crucial to refer to specific cooking guidelines for different ingredients and to check for doneness during the cooking process.
- Ignoring Food Preparation: Neglecting to properly prepare food, such as seasoning or cutting items into uniform sizes, can affect the final outcome. Proper seasoning enhances flavor, while uniform sizes ensure that all pieces cook at the same rate, leading to better consistency in texture and taste.
- Using the Wrong Accessories: Some accessories may not be suitable for a grill air fryer and could lead to poor cooking results or even damage to the appliance. Always use accessories that are specifically designed for your model to avoid any safety hazards and to ensure effective cooking.