Kalbi Chicken legs cooked in an air fryer, showcasing a crispy exterior and tender meat.

Kalbi Chicken Legs in Air Fryer

ByCasey Monroe

Why Make This Recipe

Kalbi Chicken Legs in Air Fryer is a delightful dish that combines juicy chicken with a rich and flavorful marinade. Using an air fryer not only makes cooking easier but also gives the chicken a crispy outer layer while keeping the meat tender and juicy inside. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a special family dinner.

How to Make Kalbi Chicken Legs in Air Fryer

Ingredients :

  • 6 Chicken quarters
  • Kalbi marinade
  • ½ apple
  • ¼ cup soy sauce
  • ¼ cup mirin
  • 2 inches 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)

Directions :

  1. Prepare the Marinade: Start by combining the soy sauce, mirin, minced ginger, minced garlic, chopped green onions, sesame oil, rice vinegar, sweetener, and pepper in a bowl. You can also blend in half an apple for added sweetness and flavor.

  2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken quarters in a large bowl or a zip-lock bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring every piece is well coated. Let it marinate for at least 1 hour in the refrigerator, or overnight for better flavor.

  3. Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C). This will help ensure the chicken cooks evenly and gets that nice, crispy texture.

  4. Air Fry the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is golden brown.

  5. Serve: Once done, remove the chicken from the air fryer. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving. You can sprinkle sesame seeds on top for garnish if you’d like!

How to Serve Kalbi Chicken Legs

Kalbi Chicken Legs can be served with a side of steamed rice, fresh vegetables, or a simple salad. You can also pair it with kimchi or other Korean side dishes for a more traditional experience. This dish is great for family gatherings or just a cozy dinner at home.

How to Store Kalbi Chicken Legs

If you have leftovers, let the chicken cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Reheat it in the air fryer or oven for the best result.

Tips to Make Kalbi Chicken Legs

  • Make sure to marinate the chicken for at least an hour to let the flavors soak in.
  • To enhance the marinade, you can add a bit of sesame seeds or a touch of honey for more sweetness.
  • Flip the chicken halfway through cooking for even crispiness.
  • Serve with a sauce made from the remaining marinade for extra flavor.

Variation

You can use other cuts of chicken, such as thighs or wings, for this recipe. Additionally, feel free to add other ingredients to the marinade such as pineapple or chili flakes for some heat.

FAQs

1. Can I make this recipe without an air fryer?
Yes, you can bake the chicken in a traditional oven at 400°F (204°C) for about 35-40 minutes, until the chicken is fully cooked.

2. Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?
Yes, boneless chicken will reduce the cooking time, so keep an eye on it to ensure it does not overcook.

3. Is this dish spicy?
No, Kalbi Chicken Legs are not typically spicy unless you add chili flakes or hot sauce to the marinade. It has a sweet and savory flavor.