Description
This Kalbi Chicken Legs recipe features juicy chicken quarters marinated in a flavorful Korean-inspired kalbi sauce made from soy sauce, mirin, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil. Cooked to perfection in an air fryer, the chicken comes out tender with a delicious caramelized crust. It’s an easy, quick meal packed with savory, sweet, and umami flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 6 chicken quarters (legs and thighs)
Kalbi Marinade
- ½ apple, peeled and chopped
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- ¼ cup mirin
- 2 inches fresh ginger, peeled and chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, peeled
- 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 or food processor, combine the chopped apple, soy sauce, mirin, ginger, garlic, green onion, sesame oil, rice vinegar, sugar, and black pepper. Blend until smooth and well combined to create the kalbi marinade.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken quarters in a large bowl or resealable plastic bag. Pour the kalbi marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is fully coated. Seal and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) and preheat for about 5 minutes.
- Cook the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off. Arrange the chicken quarters in a single layer in the air fryer basket, skin side up. Cook for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is crispy and caramelized.
- Finish and Serve: Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and let it rest for a few minutes. Sprinkle sesame seeds on top for garnish if desired. Serve hot with your favorite side dishes.
Notes
- Marinating overnight enhances the flavor significantly.
- Make sure to not overcrowd the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer to check doneness for safe and juicy chicken.
- Adjust sugar or sweetener amount to taste depending on your preference.
- Leftover marinade should not be reused raw; discard or boil if intended for sauce.
Keywords: Kalbi chicken legs, Korean chicken, air fryer recipes, kalbi marinade, Korean chicken legs, easy chicken recipe, air fryer chicken