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Gochujang Miso Chicken Thighs

This gochujang miso chicken thigh recipe delivers bold, layered flavor with simple steps — perfect for busy weeknights or an impressive weekend dinner.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Korean
Calories: 300

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 4 pieces chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on (about 1.5–2 lbs)
  • 2 tablespoons gochujang (Korean chili paste) for heat and fermented depth
  • 2 tablespoons miso paste white or yellow recommended for umami
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce low-sodium ok
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup maple for vegan-ish sweetness
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar to brighten the glaze
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil for aroma
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 inch ginger, grated (about 1 tsp)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Sesame seeds and sliced green onions, for garnish (optional)

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a medium bowl, combine gochujang, miso, soy sauce, honey (or maple), rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Whisk until smooth. Taste and tweak — add a bit more honey for sweetness or a splash more soy for salt.
  2. Place the thighs in a zip-top bag or shallow bowl. Pour the marinade over and massage it into the skin and under any loose skin. Seal or cover and refrigerate at least 30 minutes, ideally 4–12 hours.
  3. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Position a rack in the center.
  4. Grease a baking dish lightly or line with foil for easier cleanup.
  5. Remove thighs from the marinade, allowing excess to drip back into the bowl; discard leftover marinade. Place thighs skin-side up in the dish, spaced slightly apart.
  6. Sprinkle a pinch of salt and freshly ground pepper over the skin.
Cooking
  1. Bake for 25–30 minutes until internal temperature at the thickest part reaches 165°F (75°C) and skin is golden.
  2. For extra-crisp skin, broil on high for 2–3 minutes, watching closely so it doesn’t burn.
  3. Let the thighs rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions, then serve hot.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently in a 350°F oven for 10–12 minutes to preserve crispness. To freeze: cool completely, then freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.