Kalbi Chicken Legs in Air Fryer

You will love this easy Kalbi Chicken Legs in Air Fryer recipe — bold Korean barbecue flavors combined with juicy marinated chicken legs create a dish that’s both simple and satisfying. Perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings, this recipe brings the taste of Korean BBQ to your kitchen in just 30 minutes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With only 5 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
• Rich Flavor: The kalbi marinade infuses the chicken with mouthwatering flavors that everyone will enjoy.
• Healthy Cooking Method: Using an air fryer reduces the amount of oil needed, making this dish a healthier option.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for family dinners, meal prepping, or entertaining guests!
• Easy Cleanup: The air fryer minimizes mess, making cleanup a breeze.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Kalbi Chicken Legs in Air Fryer, you’ll need some essential tools. These will help streamline your cooking process and ensure great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Air fryer
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups
• Chef’s knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Air fryer: This tool cooks the chicken evenly while giving it a crispy texture without excess oil.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining your ingredients and marinating the chicken effectively.
• Measuring cups: Accurate measurements ensure your marinade has the perfect balance of flavors.

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Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 6 Chicken quarters

For the Kalbi Marinade

• ½ apple
• ¼ cup soy sauce
• ¼ cup mirin (substitute with rice vinegar if preferred)
• 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)

How to Make Kalbi Chicken Legs in Air Fryer

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

1. In a mixing bowl, finely grate or blend the apple, ginger, and garlic.
2. Add the soy sauce, mirin, sesame oil, and rice vinegar.
3. Stir in the sweetener, and season with pepper. Mix well until combined.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

1. Place the chicken quarters into the mixing bowl with the kalbi marinade.
2. Ensure each piece is evenly coated. You can let it marinate for at least 15 minutes or up to overnight in the refrigerator for deeper flavor.

Step 3: Preheat Your Air Fryer

1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken Legs

1. Place marinated chicken legs in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
2. Cook them for about 25 minutes, turning halfway through to ensure even cooking.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Once cooked, remove from the air fryer and let them rest briefly.
2. Optionally, sprinkle with sesame seeds before serving.
3. Enjoy your Kalbi Chicken Legs hot with your favorite sides!

How to Serve Kalbi Chicken Legs in Air Fryer

Serving Kalbi Chicken Legs in the air fryer is a delightful experience that combines rich flavors with crispy textures. Here are some creative ways to enjoy this dish.

With Steamed Rice

• Serve the chicken legs over a bed of fluffy steamed rice for a classic combination. The rice absorbs the savory juices, enhancing each bite.

On a Bed of Greens

• Place the chicken on a fresh salad made of mixed greens. Drizzle with sesame oil for added flavor, making it a refreshing option.

As Part of Tacos

• Shred the cooked chicken and use it as a filling for soft tortillas. Top with spicy kimchi and avocado for a unique twist on tacos.

Accompanied by Pickled Vegetables

• Serve with tangy pickled vegetables for a crunchy contrast. The sharpness of the pickles balances the savory chicken perfectly.

With Dipping Sauces

• Offer a variety of dipping sauces like soy sauce or spicy gochujang. These add an extra layer of flavor that guests can customize.

How to Perfect Kalbi Chicken Legs in Air Fryer

To ensure your Kalbi Chicken Legs come out perfectly every time, follow these simple tips.

• Marinate well: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes or overnight if possible to infuse maximum flavor.
• Preheat your air fryer: Preheating ensures even cooking and helps achieve that crispy skin that everyone loves.
• Arrange in a single layer: Place the chicken legs in a single layer in the air fryer basket for even cooking and crispiness.
• Monitor cooking time: Check on the chicken legs halfway through cooking to avoid overcooking and ensure they remain juicy.
• Use a meat thermometer: Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to guarantee the chicken is safely cooked through.
• Let them rest: After cooking, let the chicken legs rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows juices to redistribute, keeping them moist.

Best Side Dishes for Kalbi Chicken Legs in Air Fryer

Pairing side dishes with Kalbi Chicken Legs enhances your meal experience. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Steamed Broccoli: A light and nutritious side that adds color and health benefits without overpowering flavors.
2. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide comfort and balance to the savory chicken.
3. Asian Coleslaw: A crunchy slaw made with cabbage and carrots, dressed in sesame oil, complements the richness of kalbi nicely.
4. Cucumber Kimchi: Refreshing cucumber kimchi adds spice and crunch, making it an excellent palate cleanser alongside your meal.
5. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes caramelize beautifully when roasted, offering sweetness that contrasts well with savory chicken.
6. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with veggies provides protein while keeping your meal healthy and satisfying.
7. Edamame Beans: Lightly salted edamame offers protein-packed goodness that pairs well with Asian flavors.
8. Rice Noodles Stir-Fry: Quick fried rice noodles tossed with vegetables make for an exciting side dish that complements kalbi’s bold flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Kalbi Chicken Legs in Air Fryer, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Boldly skip the marinade time: Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes enhances the flavor. Skipping this step leaves your chicken bland.

• Boldly overcrowd the air fryer: If you place too many chicken legs in the air fryer, they won’t cook evenly. Aim for a single layer to ensure proper cooking.

• Boldly forget to preheat: Not preheating the air fryer can lead to uneven cooking. Always preheat it for optimal results.

• Boldly ignore internal temperature: Ensuring your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F is crucial for food safety. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.

• Boldly use the wrong settings: Each air fryer is different. Adjust the time and temperature according to your model for the best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cooked Kalbi Chicken Legs in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Kalbi Chicken Legs in Air Fryer

• Place cooled chicken legs in freezer-safe bags or containers.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing flavor or texture.

Reheating Kalbi Chicken Legs in Air Fryer

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat chicken legs on a baking sheet until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 2-3 minutes, but be cautious as this may make them less crispy.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, turning occasionally until warmed throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Kalbi Chicken Legs in Air Fryer:

Can I use other meats instead of chicken?

Yes, beef or turkey can also be used with the same Kalbi marinade. Adjust cooking times accordingly based on the meat chosen.

How do I ensure my Kalbi Chicken Legs are juicy?

Marinating the chicken legs properly and not overcooking them are key factors in achieving juicy results.

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

Serve with rice, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal that complements Korean BBQ flavors.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute soy sauce with gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos to make it gluten-free while still enjoying rich flavors.

Final Thoughts

Kalbi Chicken Legs in Air Fryer are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize them with various marinades or side dishes based on your preferences. This recipe provides a quick way to enjoy authentic Korean BBQ flavors right at home. Give it a try and impress your family and friends!