The moment I crack open a jar of miso and inhale that earthy aroma, I’m transported to a cozy kitchen, where comfort food reigns supreme. I discovered this Easy Miso-Ginger Chicken with Spicy Broth on one of those busy weeknights when I needed something quick yet delicious. With tender, miso-marinated chicken thighs and a broth infused with the warmth of ginger, this one-pan wonder has quickly become my go-to recipe.
In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a dish that blends salty, spicy, and umami flavors, bringing a delightful balance to your dinner table. It’s the kind of meal that hugs you from the inside out—perfect for chilly evenings or when you’re craving something wholesome. Whether you serve it over fluffy rice or with a side of fresh veggies, this recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience that invigorates the senses. So, let’s dive into this culinary adventure that promises to excite your palate and simplify your dinner prep!
Why is Easy Miso-Ginger Chicken So Special?
Mouthwatering Flavors: The rich, umami-packed miso combined with zesty ginger creates an unforgettable taste that warms your soul.
Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, this recipe is a lifesaver for busy weeknights when you crave something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
One-Pan Wonder: Simplify cleanup with this one-pan meal that combines all ingredients in one skillet—less mess, more enjoyment!
Customizable: You can easily swap ingredients based on what you have on hand, making this dish versatile for your pantry staples.
Comforting Experience: A meal that truly satisfies, it brings comfort during chilly evenings, transforming everyday dinners into heartwarming experiences.
Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a home cook, this Easy Miso-Ginger Chicken with Spicy Broth will become a cherished favorite!
Easy Miso-Ginger Chicken Ingredients
• This hearty dish is as delightful as it is simple, perfect for a cozy meal any night of the week.
For the Chicken
• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs – Juicy and flavorful, these are perfect for marinating in miso.
• Olive Oil – Ideal for cooking; can be replaced with sesame oil for a hint of nuttiness.
• Miso Paste – The star of the show that provides rich umami flavor; tahini can be a substitute, though the taste will differ.
• Freshly Grated Ginger – Adds warmth and spice; ground ginger can work in a pinch but use less.
• Garlic – Delivers an aromatic depth; feel free to omit it for a milder flavor.
For the Broth
• Chicken Broth – Serves as the base of the broth, lending depth; vegetarian option can be vegetable broth.
• Rice Vinegar – Provides a touch of acidity; substitute with lemon juice or apple cider vinegar if needed.
• Liquid Aminos – A gluten-free soy sauce alternative; regular soy sauce or tamari works if preferred.
• Honey – Balances the savory elements with sweetness; maple syrup is a great vegan alternative.
• Chili Flakes – Adds heat to the broth; adjust based on your spice preference for the perfect kick.
For the Vegetables
• Baby Bok Choy – Brightens the dish with texture and flavor; substitute with spinach or kale if unavailable.
• Green Onion – For garnish and extra taste; chives or shallots can make a suitable replacement.
For Serving
• Cooked White Rice – Acts as a comforting base; brown rice or quinoa serves as a healthier swap.
• Sesame Seeds – Optional garnish to enhance presentation and add a delightful crunch.
Gather these ingredients, and you’ll be well on your way to creating an unforgettable Easy Miso-Ginger Chicken with Spicy Broth that promises to warm your kitchen and your heart!
How to Make Easy Miso-Ginger Chicken with Spicy Broth
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Marinate Chicken: In a bowl, whisk together miso paste, grated ginger, rice vinegar, liquid aminos, honey, and minced garlic. Coat the chicken thighs in this marinade, letting them soak for at least 10 minutes for incredible flavor.
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Sear Chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken and sear each side for about 7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F. Remove the chicken and set aside.
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Sear Bok Choy: In the same skillet, toss in quartered bok choy and sear until tender, approximately 2-3 minutes. Once done, remove and set it aside to keep the vibrant color.
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Prepare Broth: In a clean saucepan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and sauté 1 tablespoon of grated ginger for 1-2 minutes. Add chicken broth, the rest of the liquid aminos, and chili flakes, allowing it to simmer gently for the flavors to meld.
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Serve: Now, plate your warm cooked rice, then arrange the seared chicken and bok choy on top. Ladle the spicy broth generously over the chicken and rice, garnishing with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
Optional: Sprinkle additional chili flakes on top for an extra kick!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Easy Miso-Ginger Chicken Variations
Feel free to get creative and make this recipe your own with these exciting twists!
- Tofu Option: Substitute chicken with firm tofu for a vegetarian-friendly dish. Simply press and marinate the tofu before cooking.
- Sesame Oil Swap: Use sesame oil instead of olive oil for a deeper, nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the miso.
- Mixed Vegetables: Add a mix of snap peas, bell peppers, and carrots for a colorful, crunchy addition. They bring vibrant textures and a hint of sweetness.
- Spicy Kick: Include fresh sliced jalapeños along with chili flakes for an extra punch of heat that will elevate the broth.
- Noodle Base: Swap out rice for soba or udon noodles. They soak up the broth beautifully and provide a delightful chewiness.
- Coconut Cream: For a creamy broth, stir in a splash of coconut cream at the end. This adds richness without overwhelming the dish.
- Herbal Infusion: Toss in some fresh cilantro or basil just before serving for a bright, fresh finish that livens up every bite.
Let your taste buds explore these variations, and transform this cozy meal into a personal favorite!
What to Serve with Easy Miso-Ginger Chicken with Spicy Broth?
A warm and hearty bowl of chicken broth isn’t complete without the perfect accompaniments to elevate your meal.
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Fluffy Jasmine Rice: The tender grains soak up the rich, flavorful broth, creating a satisfying base for your dish.
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Stir-Fried Greens: A quick toss of bok choy or snap peas adds vibrant color and a fresh crunch, balancing the savory chicken.
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Pickled Vegetables: The tang of pickled cucumbers or carrots contrasts beautifully with the umami flavors, refreshing your palate between bites.
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Sesame Cucumber Salad: Light and crisp, this salad brings a refreshing crunch that complements the rich broth while echoing the sesame notes.
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Spicy Edamame: The subtle heat and buttery texture of these seasoned soybeans make for an irresistible snack that harmonizes with your savory meal.
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Creamy Avocado Toast: Spread creamy avocado on crusty bread for a delightful side that adds a touch of richness and makes for an elegant presentation.
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Chilled Sake or Green Tea: A glass of chilled sake or a warm cup of green tea rounds out the meal, enhancing the umami experience with every sip.
Let these pairings create a meal to remember!
How to Store and Freeze Easy Miso-Ginger Chicken
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, making it an even tastier option the next day!
Freezer: Freeze the chicken and broth separately in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating to preserve texture.
Reheating: Gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave until heated through, ensuring the chicken stays tender. Enjoy this comforting Easy Miso-Ginger Chicken with Spicy Broth as a quick meal!
Avoid Overheating: Be careful not to overcook when reheating, as this can dry out the chicken. Keep it warm and succulent!
Expert Tips for Easy Miso-Ginger Chicken
• Marinate Longer: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to an hour, for deeper flavor absorption and tenderness.
• Cook Thoroughly: Always check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it’s fully cooked and safe to eat.
• Adjust Spice: Start with a small amount of chili flakes in the broth, adjusting to your spice preference—too much can overpower the gentle flavors of miso.
• One-Pan Perfection: To save time, keep everything in one pan. Sear the chicken and bok choy sequentially, using the same skillet to build flavors in the broth.
• Swap Ingredients: Get creative! Substitute bok choy with spinach or add mushrooms for extra textures—this Easy Miso-Ginger Chicken is versatile and adaptable.
Make Ahead Options
These Easy Miso-Ginger Chicken with Spicy Broth are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken thighs up to 24 hours in advance by whisking together the miso paste, ginger, rice vinegar, liquid aminos, honey, and garlic, then coating the chicken and storing it in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can prepare the broth and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, simply sear the marinated chicken and bok choy, then heat the broth to serve it warm. This way, you’ll enjoy restaurant-quality results with minimal effort, saving you valuable time on busy weeknights!
Easy Miso-Ginger Chicken with Spicy Broth Recipe FAQs
What type of miso should I use?
You can use white miso for a milder taste or red miso for a stronger flavor. Both will provide the umami richness needed for this dish, but remember that red miso has a deeper salt content.
How long can I store leftovers?
Absolutely! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors tend to deepen overnight, making it an excellent option for lunch the next day.
Can I freeze Easy Miso-Ginger Chicken?
Yes, you can! Freeze the chicken and broth separately in airtight containers for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and then gently warm on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated thoroughly, ensuring the chicken remains tender.
What should I do if my broth is too salty?
If you find your broth is a bit too salty, you can add a splash of water or low-sodium chicken broth to dilute it. Additionally, adding a pinch of sugar can help balance the flavors, too.
Can I use different vegetables in this recipe?
Very! Feel free to swap baby bok choy with spinach, kale, or even snap peas. Just sauté them until tender, so they complement the dish beautifully, keeping it vibrant and fresh.
Are there dietary considerations for this recipe?
If you’re cooking for someone with dietary restrictions, opt for gluten-free soy sauce or tamari in place of liquid aminos. You can also easily make this dish vegetarian by swapping the chicken thighs for tofu and using vegetable broth.
Easy Miso-Ginger Chicken with Spicy Broth for Cozy Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a bowl, whisk together miso paste, grated ginger, rice vinegar, liquid aminos, honey, and minced garlic. Coat the chicken thighs in this marinade and let them soak for at least 10 minutes.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken and sear each side for about 7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- In the same skillet, toss in quartered bok choy and sear until tender, approximately 2-3 minutes. Once done, remove and set aside.
- In a clean saucepan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and sauté 1 tablespoon of grated ginger for 1-2 minutes. Add chicken broth, the rest of the liquid aminos, and chili flakes, allowing it to simmer gently.
- Plate your warm cooked rice, arrange the seared chicken and bok choy on top, and ladle the spicy broth over. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.
