Name: Garlic Miso Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Japanese-inspired
Ingredients: 8 boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 2 tablespoons minced green onions (about 2 green stalks; use white and green parts separately as directed); 2 tablespoons white miso paste; 2 tablespoons rice vinegar; 2 tablespoons mirin; 1 tablespoon honey; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 tablespoon minced garlic; White part of the green onions (from above); Green onions (green part, thinly sliced); Cilantro, chopped (optional)

If you’re searching for a truly irresistible weeknight dinner, let me introduce you to Garlic Miso Chicken — an umami-packed, golden-roasted delight that always impresses. Imagine juicy, tender chicken thighs marinated in a glorious blend of savory miso, bold garlic, and just the right whisper of sweetness. The air fryer works its magic for crisp edges and succulent centers, making every bite burst with flavor. Whether you’re new to miso or a seasoned fan, I promise Garlic Miso Chicken will earn a place in your regular rotation!

Garlic Miso Chicken Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe keeps things simple and approachable, yet the results taste gourmet. Every ingredient is carefully chosen to deliver layers of flavor and texture, so don’t skip a single one — each adds something special to Garlic Miso Chicken!

Chicken Thighs (8 boneless, skinless): The star of the show! Thighs stay incredibly moist and soak up the marinade beautifully.
Green Onions (2 tablespoons, minced): Bright, aromatic, and perfect for both the marinade and garnish.
White Miso Paste (2 tablespoons): Adds deep umami flavor and gentle saltiness for that signature Japanese taste.
Rice Vinegar (2 tablespoons): Delivers a tangy lift to balance the richness of the chicken and marinade.
Mirin (2 tablespoons): A hint of sweetness and mild acidity that brighten up the entire dish.
Honey (1 tablespoon): A touch of natural sweetness caramelizes during cooking and encourages browning.
Soy Sauce (1 tablespoon): Essential for its savory, umami punch and a classic pairing with garlic and miso.
Minced Garlic (1 tablespoon): Fragrant and robust, garlic infuses deep flavor into every bite.
Garnish (Green Onions & Cilantro): Freshness on top! These herbs add color, crunch, and a final layer of flavor.

How to Make Garlic Miso Chicken

Step 1: Whip Up the Marinade

In a medium-sized mixing bowl, start by combining the miso paste, mirin, honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, garlic, and the white parts of the chopped green onions. Give this mixture a good stir! The marinade should be smooth and fragrant, bursting with that irresistible miso-garlic aroma. This is the secret to infusing your Garlic Miso Chicken with depth at every level.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Add the chicken thighs right into the marinade, then give them a thorough massage so every nook and cranny is coated. Don’t rush this part — the more attention you give it, the more flavorful the end result. If you have the time, let them chill for 20–30 minutes for extra depth, but if you’re busy, they’re still delicious even after a quick soak.

Step 3: Prepare the Air Fryer

Line your air fryer basket or tray with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup and to help catch every drop of that luscious miso marinade. Arrange the chicken in a single layer — don’t crowd the pan — and pour any leftover marinade over the pieces. This step locks in moisture and flavor from the very start.

Step 4: Air Fry to Juicy Perfection

Set your air fryer to 375°F and let the Garlic Miso Chicken work its magic for about 20 minutes, flipping the thighs halfway through. The chicken should be sizzling, with edges turning a gorgeous caramel color. For an extra-crispy, restaurant-style finish, broil the thighs for 2 minutes at the end. Use a thermometer to make sure the internal temp hits 165°F — safety and juiciness meet right there.

Step 5: Baste, Garnish, and Serve!

Once cooked, baste the chicken with any pan juices for a glossy, flavor-packed finish. Top generously with fresh green onions and chopped cilantro; these little touches make every bite sing. Your Garlic Miso Chicken is now ready to steal the spotlight at the dinner table!

How to Serve Garlic Miso Chicken

Garnishes

For that vibrant, restaurant-worthy look, heap sliced green onions and fresh cilantro over your Garlic Miso Chicken just before serving. Not only do these herbs add beautiful color, but they also provide a fresh, aromatic layer that compliments the miso’s savoriness. A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds can also add a gentle crunch and a nutty aroma — highly recommended if you have some in the pantry!

Side Dishes

This chicken pairs like a dream with fluffy steamed rice, which soaks up all the incredible sauces and juices. For extra color and nutrition, try a quick cucumber salad, pickled vegetables, or lightly sautéed greens such as bok choy or spinach. If you’re craving something heartier, opt for noodles tossed with a splash of sesame oil. The possibilities are endless and always tasty.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to impress, try serving your Garlic Miso Chicken sliced over a big, colorful salad bowl, inside a warm bao bun, or even layered in a hearty rice bowl with pickled veggies and a soft-boiled egg. These playful presentations turn everyday dinner into a special event, making every meal feel a little more exciting.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Garlic Miso Chicken in an airtight container, refrigerating promptly after dinner. The flavors actually deepen as they sit, making leftovers even more delicious the next day. Enjoy within 3 days for the best taste and texture.

Freezing

You can absolutely freeze Garlic Miso Chicken for longer storage. Once cooled, wrap portions tightly in plastic or foil, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well in the freezer for up to 2 months, perfect for meal prep or quick dinners down the line.

Reheating

To reheat, either pop the chicken back in the air fryer at 350°F for 5–7 minutes, or microwave gently until heated through. If frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Add a sprinkle of fresh green onions or a drizzle of pan juices to freshen things up before serving.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Absolutely! Chicken breasts are a great lean option, though they might need a little less time in the air fryer to avoid drying out. Just keep a close eye and check for doneness at around 16–18 minutes.

What if I don’t have white miso paste?

If white miso isn’t available, you can swap in yellow miso, which has a slightly stronger flavor but works well here. Red miso is quite robust, so use half the amount if substituting, and adjust to taste.

Could I bake Garlic Miso Chicken in the oven?

Yes! Simply bake in a preheated 375°F oven on a lined tray for 30–35 minutes, flipping halfway. Broil for a couple of minutes at the end for a lovely brown crust. Always make sure the chicken reaches 165°F internally.

How spicy is this dish?

Garlic Miso Chicken is very kid- and crowd-friendly; it’s packed with savory umami, not heat. If you’re craving a kick, sprinkle on some chili flakes or add a dash of Sriracha to the marinade.

Can I marinate the chicken overnight?

Marinating overnight is a fantastic way to supercharge the flavor! The chicken will be extra juicy, and the sauce will really penetrate. Just be sure to refrigerate it and cover tightly while it marinates.

Final Thoughts

I genuinely hope you’ll give Garlic Miso Chicken a try — it’s a personal favorite that never fails to deliver on flavor, looks, and ease. Whether you’re cooking for your family or trying to impress friends, this dish offers crave-worthy results with minimal effort. Get ready for clean plates and plenty of recipe requests!