Best Kalbi Chicken Legs in Air Fryer

Bold Korean barbecue flavors meet convenient air fryer cooking in this easy kalbi chicken recipe. Tender, juicy chicken legs marinated in a sweet-savory sauce with ginger, garlic, and sesame oil create an authentic Korean BBQ experience in just 30 minutes.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 30

Marinating Time 2

Total Time 45

Servings: 6 portions

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: Asian, International, Korean

Calories: 380

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

6 chicken quarters or chicken legs, thighs, drumsticks, or breasts
0.5 apple grated
0.25 cup soy sauce
0.25 cup mirin
2 inches fresh ginger minced
4 cloves garlic minced
2 stalks green onion chopped, plus more for garnish
2 tablespoons sesame oil toasted
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
2 tablespoons sugar or sweetener of choice
1 teaspoon black pepper
sesame seeds optional, for topping

Equipment

blender
Large zip-top bag or baking dish
Air Fryer
meat thermometer
cutting board
sharp knife

Method

In a blender, combine grated apple, minced ginger, minced garlic, chopped green onion, soy sauce, mirin, sesame oil, rice vinegar, sugar, pepper, and sesame seeds. Blend until well combined and smooth.
Cut 3-4 slits about 1/4 inch deep into each chicken piece to allow the marinade to penetrate better.
Place the chicken quarters in a large zip-top bag or baking dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
Seal the bag or cover the dish and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or overnight for the deepest flavor and most tender texture.
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
Remove the chicken from the marinade and shake off excess marinade.
Place the chicken quarters in the air fryer basket, leaving space between each piece for air circulation.
Cook in the preheated air fryer for 25-30 minutes, flipping the chicken halfway through, until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Let the chicken rest for 4-5 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.
Garnish with additional chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

For spicy version, add 1-2 tablespoons gochujang or 1 teaspoon gochugaru to marinade. Can substitute tamari or coconut aminos for gluten-free option. Chicken thighs are the most juicy and flavorful option. Store leftovers in airtight container for 3-4 days in refrigerator. Reheat in air fryer at 350°F for 8-10 minutes for best results.