You will love this easy Kalbi Chicken Legs in Air Fryer recipe — bold Korean barbecue flavors combine with juicy marinated chicken legs for a simple and tasty dish. Perfect for a family dinner or weekend gathering, this meal brings the essence of Korean BBQ right to your kitchen. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up this mouthwatering dish in about 30 minutes. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this delightful air fryer recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Prep Time: With only 5 minutes of prep, you can start enjoying these savory chicken legs in no time.
• Bold Flavors: The kalbi marinade infuses the chicken with rich, sweet, and savory notes that are truly irresistible.
• Healthy Cooking Method: Using an air fryer means you’ll achieve crispy skin and juicy meat without the added oil from traditional frying.
• Versatile Dish: Great for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or as a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
• Easy Cleanup: The air fryer minimizes mess, making cleanup a breeze so you can relax after cooking.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the deliciousness of Kalbi Chicken Legs in Air Fryer, gather your tools and prepare your workspace. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Air Fryer
• Mixing Bowl
• Whisk or Fork
• Measuring Cups and Spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Air Fryer: This essential tool allows you to cook chicken legs quickly while ensuring they remain juicy inside with a crispy exterior.
• Mixing Bowl: A good mixing bowl is vital for combining your marinade ingredients evenly.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements ensure consistent flavor each time you make this recipe.

this recipe

Ingredients

For the Kalbi Chicken Legs in Air Fryer, gather these simple ingredients:

For the Chicken

• 6 Chicken quarters

For the Marinade

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

How to Make Kalbi Chicken Legs in Air Fryer

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the kalbi marinade with soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, sweetener, grated ginger, minced garlic, chopped green onions, and pepper.
2. Use a whisk or fork to mix until well combined.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

1. Place the chicken quarters in a large resealable plastic bag or dish.
2. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated.
3. Seal the bag or cover the dish and let it marinate for at least 15 minutes (or up to overnight for deeper flavor).

Step 3: Preheat Air Fryer

1. Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for about 5 minutes.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken Legs

1. Remove the chicken from the marinade and shake off any excess liquid.
2. Place chicken pieces in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
3. Cook for 25 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), flipping halfway through for even cooking.

Step 5: Serve

1. Once cooked, remove chicken legs from air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
2. Sprinkle sesame seeds on top if desired and serve hot with your favorite sides.

Now you’re ready to enjoy delicious Kalbi Chicken Legs in Air Fryer!

How to Serve Kalbi Chicken Legs in Air Fryer

Serving Kalbi Chicken Legs from the air fryer is a delightful experience. The juicy, marinated chicken pairs well with various sides and garnishes, enhancing the flavors of the dish.

With Fresh Vegetables

• Crisp Salad: A light salad with mixed greens and a sesame dressing complements the rich flavors of the chicken.
• Steamed Broccoli: Simple steamed broccoli adds a nutritious touch and balances the meal.

With Rice or Noodles

• Steamed Jasmine Rice: The fluffy rice absorbs the delicious kalbi sauce, making each bite satisfying.
• Noodle Stir-Fry: Tossed noodles with vegetables and soy sauce create a hearty accompaniment.

With Dipping Sauces

• Soy Sauce Dip: A mix of soy sauce and chili flakes offers a spicy kick to your meal.
• Sesame Oil Drizzle: A drizzle of sesame oil brightens up the dish with its nutty flavor.

How to Perfect Kalbi Chicken Legs in Air Fryer

To make the best Kalbi Chicken Legs in your air fryer, pay attention to these key tips for optimal flavor and texture.

• Marinate Longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 1 hour enhances the flavor. Overnight is even better!
• Preheat Your Air Fryer: Preheating ensures even cooking and crispy skin. Aim for about 5 minutes at 400°F (200°C).
• Do Not Overcrowd: Cooking in batches helps achieve that perfect crispiness. Arrange chicken legs in a single layer.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety and juiciness.
• Baste for Extra Flavor: Halfway through cooking, baste with marinade for added moisture and taste.

Best Side Dishes for Kalbi Chicken Legs in Air Fryer

Pairing side dishes with Kalbi Chicken Legs elevates your meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Cucumber Kimchi: A refreshing, tangy side that adds crunch and balances out the richness of the chicken.
2. Garlic Green Beans: Sautéed green beans with garlic bring vibrant color and flavor to your plate.
3. Asian Slaw: A crunchy slaw made with cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing adds a zesty kick.
4. Fried Rice: This dish can be made quickly using leftover rice mixed with vegetables for added texture.
5. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup provides comforting warmth that complements the main dish nicely.
6. Sweet Potato Mash: Creamy sweet potato mash offers sweetness that pairs beautifully with savory kalbi flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Kalbi Chicken Legs in Air Fryer can be an enjoyable experience, but it’s easy to make simple mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them:

• Bold Marinade Mistakes: Not marinating the chicken long enough can lead to bland flavors. Aim for at least 30 minutes or overnight for the best results.

• Bold Overcrowding the Basket: Filling the air fryer basket too much may lead to uneven cooking. Ensure there’s space between each chicken leg for proper air circulation.

• Bold Ignoring Cooking Times: Different air fryers have varying cooking times. Always check your chicken for doneness with a meat thermometer; it should reach 165°F (75°C).

• Bold Skipping the Preheating: Not preheating your air fryer can result in longer cooking times. Preheat it for about 5 minutes before adding the chicken legs.

• Bold Neglecting to Check for Crispiness: If you want extra crispy skin, consider giving the chicken a quick spray of oil just before it finishes cooking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Kalbi Chicken Legs in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Kalbi Chicken Legs in Air Fryer

• Freeze cooked chicken legs in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Kalbi Chicken Legs in Air Fryer

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.

• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in short bursts until warmed up.

• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet on medium-low, turning occasionally until warmed through and skin is crispy again.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Kalbi Chicken Legs in Air Fryer, you’re not alone. Here are some frequently asked questions:

What is Kalbi Chicken?

Kalbi Chicken refers to chicken marinated in a Korean-style barbecue sauce known as kalbi. The marinade typically includes soy sauce, sugar, garlic, and sesame oil.

Can I use other cuts of chicken?

Yes! You can use any cut of chicken you prefer, but ensure that the cooking time is adjusted accordingly for smaller or larger pieces.

How do I make my marinade more flavorful?

To enhance your marinade’s flavor, try adding crushed red pepper flakes or sesame seeds for an extra kick and depth.

How long do I cook Kalbi Chicken Legs in Air Fryer?

Cook your Kalbi Chicken Legs for about 25 minutes at 380°F (193°C), flipping halfway through for even cooking.

How do I know when my chicken is done?

Use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should read 165°F (75°C) to ensure it’s safely cooked through.

Final Thoughts

Kalbi Chicken Legs in Air Fryer offer bold flavors and juicy texture that everyone will love. This recipe is versatile; feel free to customize it by adding vegetables or adjusting the sweetness of the marinade. Try this dish today and bring delicious Korean BBQ right into your home!

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Kalbi Chicken Legs in Air Fryer

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• Author: Adeline
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6

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Description

Discover the delightful flavors of Kalbi Chicken Legs in Air Fryer, a simple recipe that brings the essence of Korean BBQ straight to your dining table. Marinated in a rich blend of sweet and savory ingredients, these juicy chicken legs are cooked to perfection in just 30 minutes. The air fryer ensures a crispy skin without the excess oil, making this dish not only delicious but also healthier than traditional frying methods. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner or hosting friends, this easy-to-follow recipe is sure to impress everyone with its bold flavors and satisfying texture.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 6 chicken quarters
• ½ apple
• ¼ cup soy sauce
• ¼ cup rice vinegar
• 2 inches ginger
• 4 cloves garlic
• 2 stalks green onion
• 2 tbsp sesame oil
• 2 tbsp sweetener (sugar)
• 1 tsp pepper
• Sesame seeds (optional)

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Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the kalbi marinade ingredients: soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, sweetener, grated ginger, minced garlic, chopped green onions, and pepper until well combined.
2. Place the chicken quarters in a large resealable bag or dish and pour the marinade over them, ensuring they're thoroughly coated. Seal or cover and let marinate for at least 15 minutes or up to overnight for more flavor.
3. Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for about 5 minutes.
4. Remove the chicken from the marinade and shake off any excess liquid. Arrange the chicken legs in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
5. Cook for approximately 25 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), flipping halfway through for even cooking.
6. Allow to rest for a few minutes before serving. Top with sesame seeds if desired.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Air Frying
• Cuisine: Korean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 chicken quarter (approximately 180g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Fiber: <1g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 100mg

Keywords: For maximum flavor, consider marinating the chicken overnight. Ensure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches if necessary. Feel free to experiment with additional spices like crushed red pepper flakes for extra heat.