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Garlic Miso Chicken Thighs

Garlic Miso Chicken Thighs - featured image

Juicy chicken thighs are coated in a bold, garlicky miso marinade and pan-seared to crispy perfection in just 30 minutes. This easy Asian-inspired dinner is packed with umami flavor and perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds (about 8) bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (boneless works too, reduce cook time)
  • 3 tablespoons white miso paste
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced or grated
  • 2 tablespoons honey (or maple syrup)
  • 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce (or tamari/coconut aminos for gluten-free)
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1-inch piece fresh ginger, grated (about 1 tablespoon, optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 12 green onions, sliced (for garnish, optional)
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish, optional)
  • 1 tablespoon neutral oil (avocado or canola, for searing)

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together miso paste, garlic, honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, ginger (if using), and black pepper until smooth.
  2. Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Place in a shallow dish or zip-top bag. Pour about 3/4 of the marinade over the chicken and toss to coat. Reserve remaining marinade for basting.
  3. Let chicken marinate for at least 10 minutes at room temperature (or up to overnight in the fridge for deeper flavor).
  4. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a splash of neutral oil and swirl to coat.
  5. Add chicken thighs, skin side down, and cook undisturbed for 5-6 minutes until golden and crispy. Flip and cook another 4-5 minutes.
  6. Spoon reserved marinade over the chicken. Lower heat to medium, cover, and cook another 8-10 minutes until chicken is cooked through (internal temp 165°F). For extra crispy skin, broil for 2-3 minutes at the end.
  7. Transfer chicken to a plate and let rest 3-5 minutes. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds before serving.

Notes

For gluten-free, use tamari or coconut aminos and check your miso paste. Marinate longer for deeper flavor. Don’t rush the sear—let the chicken brown undisturbed. If using boneless thighs or breasts, reduce cook time. Broil at the end for extra crispy skin. Leftovers are great in rice bowls, salads, or tacos.

Nutrition

Keywords: garlic miso chicken, Asian chicken thighs, easy dinner, skillet chicken, miso marinade, weeknight meal, high protein, gluten-free option