Description
These Roasted Miso Chicken Thighs deliver a deliciously savory and slightly sweet flavor profile, featuring a caramelized miso-butter glaze that perfectly complements tender, juicy chicken. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is a quick and flavorful weeknight dinner ideal for serving alongside rice, noodles, or vegetables.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1 ½ lb boneless skinless chicken thighs
Miso Glaze
- 3 tablespoons white miso paste
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons softened butter
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- ¼ teaspoon ground ginger (or 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Garnish (optional)
- Green onions, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Prepare a large rimmed baking sheet by lining it with a silicone baking mat, parchment paper, or foil for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
- Make the miso glaze: In a small bowl, combine 3 tablespoons white miso paste, 2 tablespoons brown sugar, 2 teaspoons rice vinegar, 2 tablespoons softened butter, ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes, ¼ teaspoon ground ginger, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper. Use a fork to thoroughly mash and mix the ingredients until smooth and well incorporated.
- Prepare the chicken thighs: Pat the chicken thighs dry using paper towels to remove moisture. Trim away any excess fat or dangling bits with kitchen scissors. Place the chicken thighs evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
- Coat the chicken: Spoon a dollop of the miso glaze onto each chicken thigh. Use your hands to evenly smoosh and spread the glaze over the entire surface of each piece, ensuring a thorough coating for maximum flavor.
- Bake the chicken: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes. During cooking, if the miso butter glaze melts off, use a spoon to redistribute it on top of the chicken 1-2 times to maintain the caramelized coating. The miso glaze should darken and caramelize by the end of cooking.
- Enhance the glaze: If brown caramelized bits stick to the pan, add a splash of water to the baking sheet, scrape up these flavorful bits, and use a pastry brush to spread the mixture back over the chicken thighs. This adds extra depth of flavor and color.
- Serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and serve hot. Garnish with sliced green onions if desired. Enjoy alongside rice, noodles, Asian slaw, stir-fried vegetables, or steamed veggies for a balanced meal.
Notes
- Patting the chicken dry before applying the glaze helps the miso caramelize better in the oven.
- Trimming excess fat prevents flare-ups and ensures even cooking.
- Use kitchen scissors for easy trimming of chicken thighs.
- If you prefer more heat, increase the red pepper flakes slightly.
- Be sure to redistribute the glaze during baking for optimal caramelization and flavor.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently.
