Kalbi is a well-known Korean food made with marinated beef or pork ribs. The term "kalbi" or "galbi" translates to "ribs" in Korean. Kalbi meat typically consists of beef ribs, which are thinly sliced across the bones. Since it’s a popular Korean food, kalbi is typically enjoyed in Korean BBQ restaurants or cooked at home.

What is chicken kalbi?

Chicken kalbi is a Korean food made with marinated chicken pieces - either chicken breast, chicken drumsticks/legs, or chicken thighs - typically using a blend of soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, sugar, garlic, ginger, and other seasonings. It’s known for its bold and savory flavors, similar to Korean BBQ.

What to eat with Kalbi chicken?

Kalbi chicken pairs well with steamed rice, kimchi, pickled vegetables, or a fresh green salad.

How long should you marinate Korean BBQ chicken?

Marinating times can vary depending on personal preference and the recipe. In general, marinating Korean BBQ chicken for at least 1-2 hours allows the flavors to penetrate the meat. For optimal flavor, marinating Korean BBQ chicken in the refrigerator can enhance the taste.

How long does kalbi last in the fridge?

Kalbi can last in the fridge for 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container.

How do you know when chicken kalbi is done?

Chicken kalbi is done when the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) and the juices run clear. Cooking time varies based on the method used (grilling, broiling, etc.), so use a meat thermometer to ensure it’s fully cooked.

What is the difference between kalbi and bulgogi sauce?

Both popular Korean recipes, the cooking process of kalbi and bulgogi is completely different. Kalbi sauce tends to be on the sweeter side and typically includes soy sauce, sugar, garlic, and sesame oil . Bulgogi sauce , on the other hand, is slightly more savory and is often made with soy sauce, sugar, garlic, and pear for a sweeter flavor.

Best Kalbi Chicken Legs Recipe in Air Fryer

Name: Kalbi Chicken Legs in Air Fryer
Prep time: 2 h 5 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: asian
Ingredients: 6 Chicken quarters; Kalbi marinade; ½ apple; ¼ cup soy sauce; ¼ cup mirin; 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 pepperSesame Seeds (Optional, for topping)

Kalbi Chicken Legs in Air Fryer

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5 from 5 reviews

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!

Author: Carmen Spillette
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Marinating time: 2 hours
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 6 chicken legs 1x
Category: mains
Method: air fryer
Cuisine: asian

Ingredients

Scale

6 Chicken quarters

Kalbi marinade

1/2 apple

1/4 cup soy sauce

1/4 cup mirin

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)

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Instructions

Prepare the Marinade:

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. Blitz until well combined.

Marinate the Chicken:

Cut slits into the chicken.
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 let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight for more flavor.

Preheat Air Fryer:

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).

Air Fry the Chicken:

Remove the chicken from the marinade and shake off any excess.
Place the chicken quarters in the air fryer basket, leaving some space between each piece.
Cook in the preheated air fryer for about 25-30 minutes, flipping the chicken halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

Grill the chicken legs:

Preheat the grill.
Grill the chicken on medium heat, turning it a few times until fully cooked at 165 degrees internal temperature.

Serve:

Once the chicken is cooked, let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Garnish with additional chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds if desired.