These chicken thighs are packed with flavor thanks to a tasty garlic and miso marinade. They’re juicy, tender, and sure to make dinner a hit!
I love how the sweet and salty notes of miso pair perfectly with garlic. Plus, they cook up so nicely that I jokingly pretend I’m a chef every time I serve them! 🍗
Cooking these chicken thighs is so easy! Just marinate, bake, and enjoy. I often pair them with rice and veggies for a complete meal—it’s always a winner!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are great because they stay juicy and tender during cooking. You can use chicken breasts if you prefer leaner meat, but keep an eye on the cooking time, as breasts can dry out quicker.
Miso Paste: White or yellow miso is perfect for a milder flavor. If you can’t find miso, try using tahini or even peanut butter for a different but tasty twist. It won’t be the same, but it can still be delicious!
Garlic: Fresh garlic is a must for this recipe, as minced garlic adds that wonderful aroma and flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can work as a substitute. Use about 1/8 teaspoon of powder for each clove.
Soy Sauce: This adds saltiness and depth. Try tamari for a gluten-free option or coconut aminos for a soy-free alternative. Both give a lovely flavor without the gluten!
Honey or Maple Syrup: Both are wonderful for sweetness and a hint of caramelization when cooking. If you need it to be vegan, agave nectar works well too. Adjust the amount to taste!
How Do You Achieve the Perfect Chicken Char?
Getting that lovely char on your chicken adds flavor and texture. Here are some tips to help you:
- Make sure your grill or skillet is hot before adding the chicken. This helps to sear the meat and lock in juices.
- Do not overcrowd the pan. Give the chicken space so it can brown properly.
- Let the chicken sear without moving it for a few minutes. This forms a nice crust. Flip it only once for even cooking.
- Remember to check the internal temperature. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F for safety.
Letting the chicken rest after cooking is also key. This helps retain its juices, making it more flavorful and tender!
Delicious Garlic Miso Chicken Thighs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 1.5 pounds chicken thighs (boneless and skinless)
For the Marinade:
- 3 tablespoons miso paste (white or yellow)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For Garnish:
- 1 tablespoon green onions, sliced
- Fresh cilantro leaves
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 10 minutes for preparation and at least 30 minutes for marinating the chicken. Cooking will take around 10-15 minutes, so overall, you’ll need about 50 minutes to enjoy this tasty dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
Start by grabbing a mixing bowl. Combine the miso paste, minced garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, honey (or maple syrup), rice vinegar, and black pepper. Whisk everything together until it’s nicely blended and smooth. This will add a lot of flavor to your chicken!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Take your chicken thighs and place them in a large zip-top bag or a shallow dish. Pour the delicious marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is well coated in the yummy sauce. Seal the bag or cover the dish, and pop it in the refrigerator. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or if you have time, let it sit overnight for even more flavor!
3. Cook the Chicken:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill or a skillet over medium-high heat. If you’re using a grill, be sure to oil the grates so the chicken won’t stick. Take the marinated chicken out of the fridge, then remove it from the marinade and place it on the grill or in the skillet. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until it’s cooked through and has a lovely char on the outside. You want the internal temperature to reach 165°F (75°C).
4. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the chicken is cooked, take it off the heat and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps keep it juicy! After resting, slice the chicken thighs and arrange them on a serving platter. Drizzle any leftover sauce from cooking over the top for extra flavor. Finally, sprinkle with sliced green onions and some fresh cilantro leaves for a nice touch before serving!
Enjoy your delicious garlic miso chicken thighs with a side of steamed rice or a fresh salad!
Can I Use Bone-In Chicken Thighs Instead?
Yes, you can use bone-in chicken thighs! Just remember that they will take a little longer to cook—about 10-12 minutes per side. Make sure to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure they are fully cooked.
What If I Don’t Have Miso Paste?
No worries! If you don’t have miso paste, you can substitute with tahini or even a blend of peanut butter and soy sauce for a different flavor profile. However, miso gives a unique umami taste that’s hard to replicate, so try to use it if you can!
Can I Marinate the Chicken for Longer?
Absolutely! Marinating overnight can enhance the flavor even more. Just be cautious not to exceed 24 hours, as the texture of the chicken may start to break down if marinated too long due to the acidity.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. This will help retain the chicken’s juiciness!
