Kalbi Chicken Legs in Air Fryer

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious dinner idea, you have to try these Kalbi Chicken Legs in Air Fryer! This recipe brings bold Korean barbecue flavors right into your kitchen. The succulent chicken legs soak up the tasty marinade, making every bite a delightful experience. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, this dish is sure to impress and satisfy everyone at the table.

What I love most about this recipe is how simple it is. With just a handful of ingredients and only 30 minutes from start to finish, you can enjoy mouthwatering kalbi chicken without the fuss. Plus, cooking in an air fryer keeps everything juicy and tender while giving it that perfect crispy exterior. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a staple in your meal rotation!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With only 5 minutes of prep time, you’ll have more time to relax or focus on other things.
• Family-friendly: Everyone loves the sweet and savory flavors of kalbi chicken; it’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters!
• Healthy option: Cooking in the air fryer means less oil and fat while still achieving that crispy texture.
• Meal prep friendly: Make a big batch on the weekend for easy lunch options throughout the week.
• Delicious leftovers: These chicken legs taste even better the next day—perfect for sandwiches or salads!

Ingredients You’ll Need

To whip up these fantastic Kalbi Chicken Legs in Air Fryer, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients. Don’t worry if you’re not a master chef; these items are easy to find and work with!

For the Marinade

• 6 Chicken quarters
• ½ apple
• ¼ cup soy sauce
• ¼ cup mirin
• 2 ” ginger
• 4 cloves of garlic
• 2 stalks of green onion
• 2 tbsp sesame oil
• 2 tbsp rice vinegar
• 2 tbsp sweetener (I used sugar)
• 1 tsp of pepper
• Sesame Seeds (Optional, for topping)

Variations

One of the best things about this Kalbi Chicken recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with your ingredients or try different flavors that suit your taste.

• Swap the protein: If you’re in the mood for something different, use chicken thighs or drumsticks instead of quarters.
• Add some spice: Want a little kick? Toss in some red pepper flakes or sriracha into your marinade!
• Go veggie: For a plant-based version, marinate tofu or portobello mushrooms with the same kalbi marinade.
• Mix up the fruit: Instead of apple, try using pear for a unique sweetness that complements the dish beautifully.

How to Make Kalbi Chicken Legs in Air Fryer

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

Start by making your kalbi marinade. In a bowl, combine soy sauce, mirin, ginger, minced garlic, chopped green onion, sesame oil, rice vinegar, sweetener, and pepper. Blending these ingredients creates a deliciously balanced flavor that will infuse into your chicken legs. The combination of sweet and savory notes is what makes Kalbi so special!

Step 2: Marinate Your Chicken

Place your chicken quarters in a large resealable bag or bowl and pour the marinade over them. Make sure each piece is well-coated. This step is crucial because soaking helps tenderize the meat while adding incredible flavor. Let them marinate for at least 15 minutes—if you have time, an hour would be even better!

Step 3: Preheat Your Air Fryer

While your chicken is marinating, preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C). Preheating ensures that your chicken legs cook evenly and get that nice golden brown color we all love.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken Legs

Once preheated, place your marinated chicken legs in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook them for about 25 minutes until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Flip them halfway through cooking for even crispiness. The air fryer does its magic here by circulating hot air around each piece, giving them that perfect crunch.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

After cooking, let them rest for a few minutes before serving. You can sprinkle some sesame seeds on top for extra flair if desired. Pair these kalbi chicken legs with steamed rice or fresh veggies for a complete meal that everyone will rave about!

Pro Tips for Making Kalbi Chicken Legs in Air Fryer

Elevate your cooking game with these simple tips for making the best Kalbi Chicken Legs!

• Marinate Longer for Deeper Flavor: If you have time, let the chicken marinate for a few hours or overnight. This allows the flavors to penetrate deeper into the meat, resulting in a more flavorful dish.
• Preheat Your Air Fryer: Preheating your air fryer helps achieve a crispy exterior while keeping the inside juicy. Just a few minutes of preheating can make all the difference!
• Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: Cook in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking. This allows hot air to circulate freely around each piece, giving you that perfect crispiness.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure your chicken is cooked through without being dry, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach at least 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
• Experiment with Marinade Variations: Feel free to customize your marinade by adding ingredients like chili paste or sesame seeds. This way, you can tailor the flavor profile to suit your taste preferences!

How to Serve Kalbi Chicken Legs in Air Fryer

Serving your delicious Kalbi Chicken Legs can be as fun as cooking them! Here are some creative ways to present this dish that will impress your family and friends.

Garnishes

• Chopped Green Onions: These add a fresh touch and enhance the overall flavor profile of the dish.
• Sesame Seeds: A sprinkle on top gives a lovely crunch and nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with kalbi.
• Fresh Cilantro: Adds brightness and herbal notes, balancing out the richness of the chicken.

Side Dishes

• Steamed Rice: A classic accompaniment! Fluffy white rice absorbs the bold flavors of kalbi, making each bite delightful.
• Kimchi: This traditional Korean side dish introduces tangy and spicy flavors, providing a fantastic contrast to the sweetness of marinated chicken.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like carrots and bell peppers tossed in olive oil and roasted until tender can add color and nutrition to your meal.
• Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad made with thinly sliced cucumbers, sesame oil, and vinegar offers a crisp texture that complements the rich chicken beautifully.

Now you’re all set to enjoy your homemade Kalbi Chicken Legs in Air Fryer! Enjoy every bite of this delicious meal!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Kalbi Chicken Legs recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can make a batch ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy these deliciously marinated chicken legs throughout the week. Here are some handy tips for storing and reheating your leftovers.

Storing Leftovers

• Let the cooked chicken legs cool completely before storing them.
• Place the chicken legs in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• For longer storage, freeze the chicken legs after they have cooled.
• Wrap each leg tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• Label with the date and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat from frozen, allow the chicken legs to thaw overnight in the fridge.
• Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
• Reheat the chicken legs for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through.

FAQs

Got questions? We’ve got answers! Here are some common queries about Kalbi Chicken Legs in Air Fryer.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of legs in this Kalbi Chicken Legs in Air Fryer recipe?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will work wonderfully in this recipe. Just adjust cooking times as needed since thighs may require slightly more time due to their size.

How do I ensure my Kalbi Chicken Legs are juicy?

To keep your Kalbi Chicken Legs juicy, make sure to marinate them for at least 30 minutes (or even overnight) before cooking. The marinade helps tenderize the meat and infuses it with flavor!

Can I use a different sweetener for the marinade?

Yes! Feel free to substitute the sweetener with alternatives like honey or maple syrup. Just keep in mind that this might slightly alter the taste.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited about making these Kalbi Chicken Legs in Air Fryer as I am! The combination of bold flavors and juicy texture makes this dish truly special. Whether you’re whipping it up for a weeknight dinner or meal prepping, I believe you’ll love every bite. Enjoy cooking and savoring this delightful recipe—happy eating!