Craving a dish that masterfully blends savory, sweet, and tangy? Miso chicken delivers bold Asian flavors with minimal effort. Juicy thighs, crispy skin, and a caramelized miso glaze create a harmonious symphony perfect for dinner or special occasions.

This recipe is a sensory delight, combining the umami richness of white miso, the sweetness of honey, and the zing of ginger and garlic. Every bite is packed with flavor, making it an instant favorite for those who appreciate hearty, flavorful meals.

Whether paired with steamed rice or fresh vegetables, miso chicken elevates any meal into a satisfying culinary experience. Simple enough for weeknights yet elegant enough for guests, it’s a must-try recipe you’ll return to time and again.

Miso Chicken Ingredients: A Flavorful Foundation

Chicken Thighs: The star of the dish, these tender, bone-in cuts remain juicy while crisping up beautifully under the miso glaze.
White Miso Paste: The heart of the marinade, delivering deep umami richness and bold savory notes.
Rice Vinegar: Adds a subtle tang, balancing the dish with its bright acidity.
Honey: Brings a touch of natural sweetness that caramelizes to perfection in the oven.
Garlic and Ginger: Aromatic staples that infuse the dish with warmth and complexity.

These carefully chosen ingredients work in harmony to create the irresistible allure of miso chicken.

Recipe Tips for Perfect Miso Chicken

Marinate for Deeper Flavor: While the recipe suggests a 10-minute marinade, extending it to 30 minutes or up to overnight can intensify the flavors. The longer the chicken absorbs the miso mixture, the richer and more robust the taste will be.
Achieve Crispy Skin: For extra-crispy skin, pat the chicken thighs completely dry with a paper towel before coating them in the marinade. Additionally, bake the chicken on a wire rack placed over the baking dish to allow air circulation and ensure even crisping.
Monitor the Glaze: As the chicken bakes, keep an eye on the glaze to prevent burning. If the edges caramelize too quickly, loosely tent the dish with foil during the final 10 minutes of cooking. This ensures a perfect balance of crispy skin and sticky glaze.

What to Serve with Miso Chicken

Steamed Jasmine Rice: A classic pairing, jasmine rice soaks up the savory, sweet, and tangy miso glaze, making each bite perfectly balanced. The subtle aroma of the rice complements the bold flavors of the chicken.
Sautéed Bok Choy: Lightly sautéed or steamed bok choy adds a fresh, slightly bitter contrast to the rich chicken. A drizzle of sesame oil and a sprinkle of sesame seeds elevate this simple side dish.
Pickled Vegetables: Bright and tangy pickled cucumbers, radishes, or carrots cut through the richness of the chicken, adding a refreshing crunch and vibrant color to the plate.

FAQ for Miso Chicken

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breasts can be used, but they may cook faster and risk drying out. Keep an eye on the internal temperature and adjust the cooking time as needed.

2. Is there a substitute for white miso paste?
You can use yellow miso paste as a substitute. It’s slightly milder but still imparts the desired umami flavor. Avoid red miso, as it may overpower the dish.

3. Can this recipe be made ahead of time?
Absolutely! Marinate the chicken and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Bake it fresh before serving for the best texture and flavor.

4. How can I reheat leftovers without drying them out?
Reheat the chicken in a preheated oven at 325°F, covered with foil, until warmed through. Alternatively, use a microwave with a damp paper towel covering the chicken to retain moisture.

Miso Chicken

Miso chicken is a delectable dish that showcases bold Asian flavors. The crispy skin, juicy and tender meat, and caramelized glaze create a savory masterpiece, perfect for pairing with steamed rice.

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Prep Time 20

Cook Time 40

Total Time 1

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 6 People

Ingredients

8 bone-in skin-on chicken thighs
¼ cup white miso paste
2 tablespoons honey
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon garlic paste or freshly grated garlic
1 teaspoon ginger paste or freshly grated ginger

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a 9x13x2-inch baking dish with cooking spray. Pat the chicken thighs dry using paper towels to ensure crispy skin.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the white miso paste, honey, rice vinegar, soy sauce, garlic paste, and ginger paste. Whisk the ingredients thoroughly until a smooth marinade forms.
Place the chicken thighs in the bowl and coat them evenly with the marinade, massaging the mixture onto each piece. Allow the chicken to marinate for 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Arrange the chicken thighs in the prepared baking dish with the skin side facing up. Use a brush to apply any remaining marinade from the bowl onto the chicken for added flavor.
Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the thickest part reaches 165°F (74°C).
Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes to retain its juiciness. Serve warm with your choice of sides.

Keyword Miso Chicken

Miso Chicken