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There’s a certain thrill that comes with transforming an ordinary evening into something extraordinary, and for me, that’s what cooking is all about. When I first tried my hand at air frying duck, I never imagined I’d unlock such a delightful combination of flavors—a union of sticky, smoky richness and zesty citrus brightness. This Air Fried Smokey Citrus Duck is a revelation, marrying the succulence of tender duck legs with a vibrant orange glaze that dances on the palate.

After a busy week, I found solace in crafting this dish, where the only challenge is waiting for the wonderful aroma to fill your kitchen. This effortless yet sophisticated recipe pairs perfectly with creamy celeriac mash, creating a decadent experience that’s reminiscent of fine dining—all without the culinary fuss. Perfect for special occasions or simply as a treat for yourself, this dish is gluten-free and designed for a hands-off cooking approach, letting the air fryer do the work while you relax. Ready to elevate your dinner routine? Let’s dive into this flavorful adventure!

Why is Air Fried Smokey Citrus Duck a must-try?

Flavorful Fusion: This recipe combines unique smoky and zesty elements, providing a taste explosion.
Effortless Cooking: With the air fryer doing the heavy lifting, you enjoy a hands-off experience.
Crowd-Pleasing Dish: Ideal for impressing guests or treating yourself on a cozy night in.
Gluten-Free: Enjoy a delicious meal without any gluten worries, catering to various dietary needs.
Versatile Pairings: Serve with creamy celeriac mash or your favorite greens for a balanced meal.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep the duck hours in advance and serve effortlessly, saving you time.

Air Fried Smokey Citrus Duck Ingredients

• Discover the perfect blend of flavors with these key ingredients!

For the Duck

Duck Legs – Choose these for tender and flavorful meat that makes for a sumptuous dish.
Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning the duck; don’t skimp on this for maximum flavor.

For the Orange Glaze

Fresh Oranges – These add a sweet, zesty flavor; opt for juicy ones for the best results.
Honey – Enhances the glaze with sweetness; a natural replacement for refined sugars.
Soy Sauce – Offers a savory depth; ensure it’s gluten-free to fit with the keyword theme.
Smoked Paprika – Provides a lovely smoky undertone to complement the duck.

For the Celeriac Mash

Celeriac – This earthy root vegetable gives a unique flavor; it can also be swapped for traditional potatoes if desired.
Butter – Adds richness and creaminess to the mash; feel free to use a plant-based alternative if preferred.
Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning the mash; adjust according to your taste.

For the Greens

Sautéed Cabbage – A colorful, flavorful side that pairs beautifully; any fresh greens can work well too.
Olive Oil – Use for sautéing, providing a fruity flavor that complements the dish.

Embrace the delightful fusion of flavors with this Air Fried Smokey Citrus Duck recipe!

How to Make Air Fried Smokey Citrus Duck

Season the Duck: Begin by generously seasoning the duck legs with salt and pepper. Allow them to rest in the refrigerator for about 3 hours to let the flavors infuse deeply.
Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, mix together the juice of fresh oranges, honey, soy sauce, and smoked paprika. This orange glaze will enhance the duck’s richness and add a lovely smoky flavor. Set it aside.
Cook the Duck: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the seasoned duck legs in the air fryer basket, skin side up, and cook for approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the meat is tender and falls off the bone easily.
Make Celeriac Mash: While the duck is cooking, peel and chop the celeriac, then boil in salted water until tender, about 20 minutes. Drain and mash it with butter, salt, and pepper until creamy.
Serve: Layer the succulent duck legs over the creamy celeriac mash, drizzle generously with the citrus glaze, and finish with a handful of sautéed greens for a pop of color and flavor.

Optional: Garnish with fresh orange slices for an extra touch of freshness.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Air Fried Smokey Citrus Duck legs are a fantastic option for meal prep, saving you time on busy nights! You can season the duck up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen; simply cover and refrigerate them until you’re ready to cook. The celeriac mash can also be prepared up to 3 days ahead—just boil, mash, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To keep it fresh, add a bit of extra butter before reheating. When it’s time to serve, simply air fry the duck as directed and reheat the mash; you’ll enjoy a wonderfully delicious meal that feels like it just came from a gourmet kitchen!

Air Fried Smokey Citrus Duck Variations

Feel free to put your personal touch on this delightful dish and explore new flavors!

Citrus Switch: Replace orange with grapefruit for a slightly bitter, unique glaze that brightens the dish beautifully. Try it for a refreshing twist.
Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the duck for a fragrant and earthy depth that pairs exceptionally well with the citrus.
Sweet & Spicy: Incorporate a teaspoon of chili flakes into the glaze for a gentle heat that mingles wonderfully with the sticky sweetness.
Texture Twist: Swap celeriac for creamy cauliflower mash for a lighter alternative that still delivers on the smooth and satisfying texture.
Vegan Version: Use marinated tofu or tempeh in place of duck, applying the same delightful orange glaze for a plant-based version bursting with flavor.
Fruit Glaze: Add a handful of crushed berries to the glaze to elevate its sweetness and provide a lovely color contrast on the plate.
Nutty Finish: Top the dish with toasted nuts like walnuts or hazelnuts for a crunchy texture that beautifully complements the creamy celeriac mash.
Asian-inspired: Substitute soy sauce for coconut aminos and add ginger to the glaze for an exciting twist that introduces warm, aromatic flavors.

Expert Tips for Air Fried Smokey Citrus Duck

Marinate Wisely: The longer you allow the duck to season, the deeper the flavors will penetrate. Aim for at least 3 hours in the fridge.
Monitor Temperature: Cooking the duck at the right temperature ensures tender meat. Use a meat thermometer; aim for 165°F for perfect doneness.
Use the Right Oil: When sautéing your greens, olive oil adds a delightful flavor while keeping the dish healthier.
Save the Fat: Don’t discard the rendered duck fat! It can be used to add rich flavor to roasted vegetables or potatoes.
Experiment with Glaze: Feel free to switch up the citrus in the glaze to lemon or lime for a fresh twist on the Air Fried Smokey Citrus Duck.

What to Serve with Air Fried Smokey Citrus Duck?

Elevate your dining experience by pairing this delightful duck dish with sides that complement its rich and zesty flavors.

Creamy Celeriac Mash: This smooth, earthy mash helps absorb the delicious orange glaze while providing a subtle contrast to the duck’s richness.
Sautéed Greens: Lightly sautéed cabbage or any seasonal greens add a fresh crunch to the plate, balancing the dish with vibrant color and flavor. Toss in a touch of olive oil for extra richness.
Roasted Root Vegetables: Caramelized carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes bring sweetness and depth, perfectly harmonizing with the smoky, citrusy notes of the duck.
Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty duck, brightening up each bite.
Orange Glazed Carrots: Reinforce the citrus theme by serving sweet, glazed carrots. The orange flavor ties wonderfully with the duck’s glaze and enhances the overall meal.
Crispy Bread Rolls: Serve warm, crusty rolls to soak up any delicious drippings or extra orange glaze; they’re perfect for sopping up the last bites on your plate.
Pinot Noir: A light to medium-bodied Pinot Noir pairs beautifully with the duck, enhancing its flavors without overpowering the dish. Its red fruit notes echo the citrus tones perfectly.
Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, a light chocolate mousse offers a touch of decadence to finish the meal on a sweet note, contrasting with the savory elements.

With these delightful pairings, your Air Fried Smokey Citrus Duck transforms into an extraordinary feast that’ll impress family and friends alike!

How to Store and Freeze Air Fried Smokey Citrus Duck

Fridge: Store any leftover duck in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To maintain moisture, cover the duck with a bit of glaze before sealing.

Freezer: You can freeze the duck for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil or a freezer-safe bag to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating: To reheat, place the duck in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. This helps keep the skin crisp.

Celeriac Mash Storage: Store any leftover celeriac mash in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of cream or milk for creaminess.

Air Fried Smokey Citrus Duck Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right duck legs?
Absolutely! When selecting duck legs, look for pieces with a good amount of meat and an intact skin. The skin should be smooth and free from dark spots or blemishes, indicating freshness. If possible, purchase from a trusted source that sells high-quality, ethically raised ducks for the best flavor.

How should I store leftover duck?
You can store any leftover Air Fried Smokey Citrus Duck in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. To keep the meat moist, I recommend covering it with a bit of the glaze before sealing. This extra touch helps retain the delicious flavors and prevents the duck from drying out.

Can I freeze the duck?
Yes, you can freeze the duck for up to 3 months! First, let the cooked duck cool completely. Wrap each leg tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag or aluminum foil to protect it from freezer burn. Make sure to label the packaging with the date so you can keep track of freshness.

What can I do if the duck skin isn’t crisp after cooking?
Very! If you find that the skin isn’t as crispy as you’d like, try placing the duck under the broiler for a few minutes after air frying. This quick blast of high heat can help achieve that desirable crispy texture. Just keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn’t burn!

Is this recipe suitable for special diets?
Absolutely! This Air Fried Smokey Citrus Duck is gluten-free, making it a great choice for those with gluten sensitivities. Always check labels on ingredients like soy sauce to ensure they’re labeled gluten-free. Additionally, if you’re cooking for a crowd, consider notifying guests of any other dietary restrictions they may have.

How do I reheat the celeriac mash without losing its creamy texture?
Great question! To reheat your celeriac mash, place it in a saucepan over low heat. Add a splash of milk or cream to help restore its creaminess as it warms. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure an even temperature. It usually takes about 5–10 minutes to warm through, making it perfectly ready to accompany your duck!