Spicy Miso Chicken Thighs Air Fryer

This has become a new favorite chicken thigh recipe in my house. You will love these Spicy Miso Chicken Thighs. It is so easy to make. Just marinate and cook. Check out my recipe card below, I included 3 different cooking methods to make your life easier. 

Amazing for meal planning, just marinate and cook during the week. It is so delicious that it will impress your guest if you're entertaining. I love quick and easy chicken thigh recipes like this. 

If you love this, then you need to check out Garlic Miso Chicken, Gochujang Miso Chicken, or my favorite Teriyaki Chicken Skewers (Yakitori). 

Jump to:

• Here's what you need to make miso chicken thighs
• How to make spicy miso chicken thighs
• Substitutions
• Equipment
• 9 Kitchen Essentials
• How to store and reheat spicy miso chicken thighs
• Top tips for success
• Related
• How to serve miso chicken thighs
• Don't miss out!
• Spicy Miso Chicken Thighs Air Fryer
• Food safety

Here's what you need to make miso chicken thighs

• shiro miso 
• mirin 
• soy sauce
• white sugar
• sambal oelek or chili oil 
• clove of minced garlic
• tsp of ginger paste 

See recipe card for quantities.

How to make spicy miso chicken thighs

Prep the Marinade:

• In a bowl, combine the white miso, mirin, soy sauce, white sugar, sambal oelek (or chili oil), minced garlic, and ginger paste.
• Mix well until the sugar is dissolved and all ingredients are fully combined.

Marinate the Chicken:

• Place the chicken thighs in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish.
• Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated.
• Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for best results.

Different Cooking Methods:

Air Fry Method:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place the marinated chicken thighs SKIN SIDE DOWN in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Do not overcrowd.
3. Cook for 18-22 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is golden brown.

Grill Method:

1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
2. Oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
3. Place the marinated chicken thighs on the grill.
4. Grill for 6-8 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
5. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.

Oven Baked Method:

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F. 
2. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.
3. Place the marinated chicken thighs on the baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
5. For a crispy finish, broil on high for the last 2-3 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.

Substitutions

• shiro miso - any miso paste would work for this recipe like white miso or red miso are some of the most popular ones. 
  
• mirin - omit if you do not have this or add rice vinegar to balance the saltiness of the miso. 
  
• soy sauce - for gluten-free, use tamari or gluten-free soy sauce 
  
• white sugar - use any sweetener such as maple syrup, honey, brown sugar, or agave. 
  
• sambal oelek or chili oil - if you do not have either, use 1 tablespoon of red chili flakes or sriracha. 
  
• garlic - fresh garlic is best, you can use garlic paste from a tube or garlic from a jar. Garlic powder is ok too but it might not taste as good. 
  
• ginger - fresh ginger is important but omit if you do not have it. 

Equipment

• Wok or skillet
• Air Fryer
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Airtight container for marinating 

How to store and reheat spicy miso chicken thighs

Store leftover spicy miso chicken thighs in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge. Easily reheat it in the air fryer for 5 minutes or a quick blitz in the microwave. 

Related

Looking for other chicken recipes like this? Try these:

How to serve miso chicken thighs

As a busy mom, I tend to keep things simple for dinner and stick to a protein, side, and salad or roasted vegetables. Here are some ideas for Spicy Miso Chicken Thighs:

• Serve with rice and a side of Garlic Braised Kale. 
• Pair with Garlic Fried Rice.
• Also, serve this with Asian Coleslaw as a refreshing side salad.

Food safety

• Cook to a minimum temperature of 165 °F (74 °C)
• Do not use the same utensils on cooked food, that previously touched raw meat
• Wash hands after touching raw meat
• Don't leave food sitting out at room temperature for extended periods
• Never leave cooking food unattended
• Use oils with high smoking point to avoid harmful compounds
• Always have good ventilation when using a gas stove

See more guidelines at USDA.gov.