Kalbi Chicken Legs in Air Fryer

You will love this easy Kalbi Chicken Legs in Air Fryer recipe — bold Korean barbecue flavors and juicy marinated chicken legs come together effortlessly. This dish is perfect for family dinners, weekend gatherings, or meal prep. In just 30 minutes, you can enjoy a delicious taste of Korean BBQ right at home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With only 5 minutes of prep time, you can have a flavorful meal ready in no time.
• Bold Flavors: The kalbi marinade infuses the chicken with rich, savory tastes that are hard to resist.
• Air Fryer Convenience: Cooking in an air fryer means less oil and faster cooking times while keeping the chicken juicy.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to festive celebrations.
• Healthy Option: Using chicken legs provides a hearty meal without compromising on flavor or nutrition.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Kalbi Chicken Legs in Air Fryer, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure everything runs smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Air fryer
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Air fryer: This tool cooks your chicken evenly while giving it that desirable crispy texture without excess oil.
• Mixing bowl: A sturdy bowl allows you to combine your marinade ingredients easily, ensuring every piece of chicken is well-coated.

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Ingredients

You will love this easy Kalbi Chicken recipe — bold Korean barbecue flavors, and juicy marinated chicken legs in air fryer are simple and tasty. You only need a few ingredients and 30 minutes to enjoy this mouthwatering kalbi chicken dish – Korean BBQ at home is elite!

For the Chicken

• 6 Chicken quarters

For the 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 of 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, grate the apple, ginger, and mince the garlic.
2. Add the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and sweetener to the bowl.
3. Mix well until combined.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

1. Place the chicken quarters into a large resealable bag or shallow 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 the Air Fryer

1. Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

1. Remove excess marinade from the chicken before placing it in the air fryer basket.
2. Arrange the marinated chicken quarters in a single layer without overcrowding.
3. Cook for about 25 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Once cooked through and crispy on the outside, remove from the air fryer.
2. Sprinkle with optional sesame seeds before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Kalbi Chicken Legs straight from the air fryer!

How to Serve Kalbi Chicken Legs in Air Fryer

Kalbi Chicken Legs are a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to enhance their flavor and presentation. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

With Steamed Rice

• Serve the kalbi chicken legs atop a bed of fluffy steamed rice for a comforting and satisfying meal. The rice absorbs the savory marinade, adding depth to each bite.

In Lettuce Wraps

• Use fresh lettuce leaves to create wraps filled with shredded kalbi chicken, sliced cucumbers, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. This adds a refreshing crunch and makes for a fun finger food option.

Accompanied by Kimchi

• Pair your kalbi chicken with spicy kimchi for an authentic Korean experience. The tangy flavors of kimchi complement the savory sweetness of the chicken beautifully.

With Pickled Vegetables

• Serve with pickled vegetables like radishes or carrots. The acidity from the pickles brightens up the dish and balances the rich flavors of the marinade.

Topped with Green Onions

• Garnish your kalbi chicken legs with chopped green onions for an extra layer of flavor and a pop of color. This simple addition enhances both taste and presentation.

How to Perfect Kalbi Chicken Legs in Air Fryer

Achieving perfect kalbi chicken legs in an air fryer is all about technique. Follow these tips to ensure delicious results every time.

• Marinate well: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes or overnight if possible. This helps infuse the flavors deeply into the meat.
• Preheat your air fryer: Preheating ensures even cooking. Set it to 375°F (190°C) before placing the chicken inside.
• Don’t overcrowd: Place only enough chicken legs in the basket to allow proper airflow. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking.
• Flip halfway: Turn the chicken legs midway through cooking for even browning on both sides.
• Check doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
• Let rest before serving: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps retain moisture and ensures juicy bites.

Best Side Dishes for Kalbi Chicken Legs in Air Fryer

Enjoying kalbi chicken legs is even better when paired with delicious side dishes that complement their flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Cucumber Salad: A light salad made with fresh cucumbers, rice vinegar, and sesame oil brings a refreshing contrast to rich chicken.
2. Stir-Fried Vegetables: Quick stir-fry colorful veggies like bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots in sesame oil add both nutrition and texture.
3. Fried Rice: Flavorful fried rice with vegetables and eggs makes for a hearty side that pairs wonderfully with kalbi.
4. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup offers comfort and complements the savory notes of kalbi chicken nicely.
5. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries provide a sweet balance against the savory flavors of the dish.
6. Quinoa Salad: A quinoa salad featuring herbs, cherry tomatoes, and lemon dressing is nutritious and adds a unique twist to your meal.
7. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with garlic butter enhances summer vibes while providing a lovely contrast in flavor.
8. Kimchi Fried Rice: For spice lovers, this dish brings together leftovers perfectly while enhancing each bite with flavorful kimchi elements.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Kalbi Chicken Legs in Air Fryer, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some that you should avoid for the best results.

• Bold marinating: Failing to marinate the chicken long enough will result in less flavor. Aim for at least 30 minutes, or even overnight for deeper taste.
• Incorrect temperature: Cooking at too high of a temperature can lead to uneven cooking. Stick to the recommended air fryer settings for perfectly cooked chicken.
• Overcrowding the basket: Placing too many chicken legs in the air fryer can prevent proper air circulation. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure even crispiness.
• Skipping oil: Not using enough oil in your marinade can lead to dry chicken. A little sesame oil adds moisture and enhances flavor.
• Ignoring resting time: Cutting into the chicken right after cooking can let juices escape. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving for juicy meat.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Kalbi Chicken Legs in Air Fryer

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

Reheating Kalbi Chicken Legs in Air Fryer

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and reheat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of broth or water. Cook, covered, until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Kalbi Chicken Legs in Air Fryer that might help you out.

Can I use other cuts of chicken?

Yes! You can use drumsticks or thighs instead of chicken legs; just adjust the cooking time as needed.

How do I know when my Kalbi Chicken Legs are done?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safety.

Can I make this recipe without soy sauce?

Absolutely! You can use tamari or coconut aminos as a gluten-free alternative.

What sides pair well with Kalbi Chicken Legs in Air Fryer?

Serve with rice, sautéed vegetables, or kimchi for a delicious meal!

Final Thoughts

Kalbi Chicken Legs in Air Fryer offers a delightful mix of bold flavors and juicy textures that everyone will love. This recipe is not only quick but also versatile—feel free to customize it with your favorite marinades or side dishes. Enjoy this delicious Korean BBQ experience right at home!