Best Kalbi Chicken Legs Recipe in Air Fryer Recipe
This Best Kalbi Chicken Legs recipe features tender, flavorful chicken quarters marinated in a traditional Korean-inspired kalbi marinade, then perfectly cooked in an air fryer for a crispy exterior and juicy interior. The marinade combines grated apple, ginger, garlic, and savory soy-based ingredients to deliver a delicious umami-packed dish that’s quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 45 minutes (including marination)
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: Korean
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 6 Chicken quarters (legs and thighs)
Kalbi Marinade
- ½ apple, grated
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- ¼ cup mirin
- 2 inches fresh ginger, minced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 stalks green onion, chopped
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons sugar (or preferred sweetener)
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- Sesame seeds, optional for topping
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a blender, combine the grated apple, minced ginger, minced garlic, chopped green onion, soy sauce, mirin, sesame oil, rice vinegar, sugar, pepper, and optional sesame seeds. Blend until the mixture is smooth and well combined, forming the kalbi marinade.
- Marinate the Chicken: Using a sharp knife, cut slits into each chicken quarter to help the marinade penetrate. Place the chicken pieces into a large zip-top bag or baking dish. Pour the prepared marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours or preferably overnight for maximum flavor infusion.
- Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) to ensure even cooking and crispy skin.
- Air Fry the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and gently shake off any excess. Arrange the chicken quarters in the air fryer basket in a single layer with some space between pieces for optimal air circulation. Cook for 25 to 30 minutes, flipping the chicken halfway through the cooking time to brown evenly. The chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden brown and crispy.
- Optional Grilling Step: For additional smoky flavor, preheat a grill to medium heat. Transfer the cooked chicken legs to the grill and cook, turning occasionally, until the internal temperature again reaches 165°F and the chicken is thoroughly heated and slightly charred on the outside.
- Serve: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after cooking to let the juices redistribute. Garnish with extra chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds for an attractive and flavorful finish before serving.
Notes
- Marinating overnight enhances the flavor and tenderness of the chicken.
- Slice slits into chicken helps marinade absorption and quicker cooking.
- Make sure to flip the chicken halfway through air frying to ensure even browning.
- Internal temperature must reach 165°F for safe consumption.
- You can substitute sugar with honey or another sweetener if preferred.
- Sesame seeds and green onions make great garnishes adding both texture and taste.
- If you don’t have mirin, you can use a mix of rice vinegar and a pinch of sugar as a substitute.
Keywords: kalbi chicken, air fryer chicken legs, Korean chicken recipe, marinated chicken, easy chicken dinner, Korean BBQ chicken, air fryer recipes
