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Miso Chicken Thighs Recipe
Isla Marie

Miso Chicken Thighs

Miso Chicken Thighs are juicy, savory, and deeply flavorful chicken thighs marinated in a rich miso-based sauce and cooked until tender with lightly caramelized edges. This easy recipe delivers bold umami flavor using simple pantry ingredients and works perfectly for weeknight dinners or meal prep.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
0 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Dinner, Main Dish
Cuisine: Japanese
Calories: 420

Ingredients
  

  • 2 lb chicken thighs bone-in or boneless, skin-on or skinless
  • 3 tablespoons white or yellow miso paste
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari
  • 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon fresh ginger grated
  • Optional: sliced green onions or sesame seeds for garnish

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Whisk or spoon
  • Baking dish or sheet pan
  • Aluminum foil or parchment paper
  • Measuring spoons

Method
 

  1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together miso paste, soy sauce (or tamari), honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger until smooth.
  2. Add chicken thighs to the bowl and toss until evenly coated with the marinade.
  3. Cover and marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor.
  4. Preheat oven to 400°F (205°C). Line a baking dish or sheet pan with foil or parchment.
  5. Arrange chicken thighs in a single layer, skin-side up if using skin-on thighs.
  6. Bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes, until chicken is cooked through and the top is lightly caramelized.
  7. Optional: Broil for 2–3 minutes at the end for extra color, watching closely to avoid burning.
  8. Remove from oven and rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish if desired.

Video

Notes

  • Chicken thighs stay juicier than breasts and handle miso well
  • Do not cook over very high heat or miso may burn
  • Taste the marinade before adding chicken to ensure balance
  • Works well baked, grilled, or pan-seared with care