This recipe article shows you how to make the most of your Oster XL 11-in-1 Digital French Door Air Fryer, a versatile countertop oven that air fries, bakes, broils, roasts, toasts, and more. The French door design lets you check on your food without losing heat, and the XL capacity fits a whole chicken or a 12-inch pizza. Below is a complete guide to using the air fryer function with a classic crispy chicken dinner, plus tips for other modes.
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 2 lb / 900 g)
- 1 tbsp (15 ml) olive oil
- 1 tsp (5 g) garlic powder
- 1 tsp (5 g) smoked paprika
- 1 tsp (5 g) onion powder
- 1/2 tsp (2.5 g) dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp (2.5 g) salt
- 1/4 tsp (1.25 g) black pepper
- 1 lb (450 g) baby potatoes, halved
- 1 tbsp (15 ml) olive oil (for potatoes)
- 1/2 tsp (2.5 g) salt (for potatoes)
- 1/4 tsp (1.25 g) black pepper (for potatoes)
- 1 tbsp (2 g) fresh rosemary, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, mix garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Rub the spice mixture all over the chicken, then brush with 1 tbsp olive oil. Let sit at room temperature for 15 minutes while you prep the potatoes.
- In a medium bowl, toss the halved baby potatoes with 1 tbsp olive oil, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. If using rosemary, add it now.
- Place the potatoes in the air fryer basket or on the drip tray that comes with the Oster XL. Spread them in a single layer, leaving space between pieces.
- Set the Oster to “Air Fry” mode at 380°F (193°C) for 20 minutes. Place the basket in the oven and start cooking.
- After 10 minutes, open the French doors (the oven pauses automatically when you open them) and shake the basket to toss the potatoes. Close the doors and continue cooking.
- While the potatoes cook, place the seasoned chicken thighs on a plate. After the potatoes have cooked for 20 minutes, remove the basket carefully (it will be hot) and set it aside.
- Place the chicken thighs skin-side up on the drip tray or in the basket, leaving space between them. Set the Oster to “Air Fry” mode at 400°F (204°C) for 20 minutes.
- After 10 minutes, open the doors and check the chicken. If the skin is browning too quickly, you can lower the temperature to 375°F (190°C). Continue cooking.
- At the 20-minute mark, check the internal temperature of the thickest part of a chicken thigh with a food thermometer. It must reach 165°F (74°C) (USDA FSIS safe minimum for poultry). If not, cook for 2-3 more minutes and check again.
- Once the chicken is done, remove it and let it rest for 5 minutes. Serve the chicken with the potatoes. If you want the potatoes crispier, return them to the air fryer for 3-4 minutes at 400°F (204°C) while the chicken rests.
Tips
- Don’t overcrowd: For crispy results, leave at least 1 inch (2.5 cm) between pieces. If you have more than 4 thighs, cook in batches.
- Use the right rack position: For air frying, place the basket or tray on the middle rack. For broiling, use the top rack; for baking, use the bottom rack.
- Check early: Air fryers vary in heat distribution. Open the doors and check food a few minutes before the timer ends, especially when trying a new recipe.
- Substitutions: You can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, but reduce cooking time to 15-18 minutes for thighs and 12-15 minutes for breasts. Always check temperature.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the crispy chicken and potatoes with a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette, or with steamed broccoli drizzled with butter. For a full meal, add a side of coleslaw or roasted carrots. The chicken also pairs well with a dipping sauce like honey mustard or a garlic aioli.
Variations
- Spicy version: Add 1 tsp (5 g) cayenne pepper or chili powder to the spice rub, and toss the potatoes with a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Herb butter: Instead of olive oil, rub the chicken with 2 tbsp (30 g) softened butter mixed with minced garlic and fresh parsley.
- Vegetarian main: Replace the chicken with 1 lb (450 g) extra-firm tofu, cubed and tossed in the same spice mix. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 15-18 minutes, shaking halfway.
- Using other modes: The Oster XL also bakes, broils, toasts, and roasts. Use the Bake mode for cookies at 350°F (177°C) for 10-12 minutes, or the Broil mode for melting cheese on open-faced sandwiches for 3-4 minutes.
Storage and Reheating
Refrigerate any leftovers within 2 hours of cooking. Store chicken and potatoes separately in airtight containers for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place in the air fryer at 350°F (177°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through and the skin is crisp again. You can also reheat in a 350°F (177°C) oven for 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it makes the skin soggy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use the Oster XL to air fry frozen foods? Yes, you can air fry frozen french fries, chicken nuggets, or fish sticks directly from the freezer. Increase cooking time by 3-5 minutes and shake the basket halfway through. Always check that the food reaches a safe internal temperature if it contains meat or fish.
Do I need to preheat the air fryer? The Oster XL does not require preheating for air fry mode, but for baking and roasting, preheating for 3-5 minutes helps achieve even results. The oven will indicate when it’s ready.
Why is my food not crispy? The most common reasons are overcrowding, not enough oil, or using too low a temperature. Make sure pieces are in a single layer, lightly coated with oil, and cooked at 380-400°F (193-204°C). Also, patting meat dry before seasoning helps.
Can I use aluminum foil or parchment paper in the air fryer? Yes, you can line the drip tray or basket with foil or parchment paper, but make sure it does not cover the entire basket, as that blocks air circulation. Never put paper in the oven without food on top of it.
How do I clean the Oster XL after air frying? Let the oven cool completely, then remove the crumb tray, drip tray, and basket. Wash them in warm soapy water or place them in the dishwasher if they are dishwasher-safe. Wipe the interior with a damp cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners on the nonstick surfaces.
Can I cook a whole chicken in the Oster XL? Yes, the XL capacity fits a 4-5 lb (1.8-2.3 kg) chicken. Rub with oil and seasoning, place breast-side up on the drip tray, and air fry at 350°F (177°C) for about 20 minutes per pound, or until the thickest part of the thigh reaches 165°F (74°C). Let rest 10 minutes before carving.
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Safety notes: safe minimum internal temperatures from USDA FSIS; raw and undercooked fish guidance from the U.S. FDA. Food safety notes
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