Easy Sesame Miso Chicken with Creamy Coconut Rice

Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

If you’re craving a meal that feels both comforting and a little adventurous, this Sesame Miso Chicken paired with Coconut Rice will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. It’s the kind of dish that looks and tastes like it took hours, but it comes together with ease—and trust me, you’ll love how effortless it is!

The chicken is marinated in a luscious miso-sesame glaze that delivers a perfect balance of savory, sweet, and nutty flavors. Meanwhile, the coconut rice is silky, fragrant, and just slightly sweet—a dreamy base that complements the bold chicken beautifully.

Why This Recipe Works
What I adore most about this recipe is its layered flavors that don’t require a ton of fuss. The miso paste lends deep umami richness, while toasted sesame oil adds a subtle nuttiness. A touch of honey or maple syrup rounds everything out with gentle sweetness, making each bite addictive.

And then there’s the coconut rice—oh, the coconut rice! If you usually stick to plain white rice, you’re in for a treat. Using full-fat canned coconut milk turns ordinary rice into a creamy, aromatic delight. It’s like a little vacation for your taste buds and pairs perfectly with the miso chicken.

This dish is naturally dairy-free and can be easily gluten-free if you swap soy sauce for tamari. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners but elegant enough to serve when friends come over.

How to Make Sesame Miso Chicken

Start by whisking together your marinade ingredients—white miso paste, soy sauce, toasted sesame oil, rice vinegar, honey, freshly minced garlic, and grated ginger. This combination packs a punch of flavor that will infuse the chicken with irresistible taste.

Let the chicken soak up this marinade for at least 30 minutes. If you have time, overnight marinating in the fridge makes the flavors even deeper and the meat more tender. Patience pays off here!

Once marinated, the chicken can be cooked on the stove or baked. I love baking it at 400°F for about 25-30 minutes on a lined baking sheet until it’s caramelized and juicy. Cooking it this way means less hands-on time and a gorgeous, slightly sticky glaze.

When cooking the chicken, be sure not to rush the caramelization—it’s the key to getting that rich, golden crust that adds so much texture and flavor. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking, then slice it up for serving.

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Making Perfect Coconut Rice

While your chicken cooks, rinse the jasmine or basmati rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear. This simple step is essential—it removes excess starch and prevents the rice from getting gummy.

Next, combine the rinsed rice with full-fat coconut milk, water, and a pinch of salt in a pot. Bring to a boil, then cover and reduce heat to simmer gently. Resist the urge to lift the lid or stir while it cooks! Let the rice steam undisturbed for about 15 minutes.

After cooking, remove the pot from the heat and let it sit, still covered, for another 10 minutes. This resting period allows the rice to finish steaming and become fluffy.

Just before serving, fluff the rice with a fork. You can add a little lime zest, shredded coconut, or chopped cilantro if you like to brighten the flavors and add a fresh touch.

Tips and Variations

• For a spicy twist, stir a spoonful of chili garlic sauce or Sriracha into the marinade. It adds just the right kick!
• Vegetarians, don’t feel left out. Swap the chicken for firm tofu or roasted eggplant. Both soak up the marinade beautifully and deliver a satisfying bite.
• Add steamed broccoli, snap peas, or a quick cucumber salad on the side to round out the meal with fresh greens and crunch.
• Want a smoky flavor? Grill the marinated chicken instead of baking—it’s delicious and adds a nice char.
• For extra texture, sprinkle fried shallots or crushed roasted peanuts over the chicken before serving. The crunch makes every bite more exciting.

Storage and Reheating

Got leftovers? Store the chicken and coconut rice separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, gently warm them in a skillet or microwave. Add a splash of water or coconut milk to the rice to keep it moist and fluffy—it tends to dry out a bit when cooled.

I don’t recommend freezing this dish because the coconut rice can change texture and become grainy after thawing.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is a winner on its own but pairs beautifully with light sides like a quick pickled cucumber salad or sautéed greens. The contrast between the creamy rice, savory chicken, and fresh veggies creates a perfect harmony on your plate.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I use red or brown miso instead of white?
  Yes, but red miso is stronger and saltier. Use a bit less and add extra honey if you want to balance the intensity.
• What kind of coconut milk is best?
  Full-fat canned coconut milk is ideal—it gives the rice a rich, creamy texture. Avoid light or carton varieties, which are thinner.
• Is sesame oil necessary?
  Toasted sesame oil adds a unique, warm nuttiness that’s essential to the flavor profile, but if you don’t have any, olive oil works as a substitute.
• Can I cook this in an Instant Pot?
  Absolutely! Use the sauté function for the chicken and the rice function (with a 1:1 liquid ratio) for the coconut rice.
• Can chicken breasts be used instead of thighs?
  Yes, but breasts cook faster and can dry out. Keep an eye on them and don’t overcook. Thighs are more forgiving and tend to stay juicy.

Final Thoughts

Sesame Miso Chicken with Coconut Rice is that perfect recipe for when you want something a little special without spending hours in the kitchen. The balance of rich, umami-packed chicken and fragrant, creamy coconut rice is pure comfort food with an Asian-inspired twist.

Give it a try on your next weeknight or weekend dinner—you might just find yourself making it again and again! This dish hits all the right notes: easy to prepare, delicious to eat, and impressive enough to share with friends or family. Enjoy every flavorful bite!