Name: Caramelized Miso-Glazed Chicken Thighs with Toasted Almond Crumble
Prep time: 35 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (about 8 small or 4 large); 2 tbsp white miso paste; 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened (room temperature); 2 tbsp erythritol or allulose (keto sweetener); 1 tbsp avocado oil; 1 tbsp rice vinegar (unseasoned); 1 tsp toasted sesame oil; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp smoked paprika; 1/2 tsp kosher salt, plus more to taste; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1/2 cup sliced almonds; 1 tbsp sesame seeds; 1 tbsp fresh chives, finely chopped (plus extra for garnish); Zest of 1 lime

Caramelized Miso-Glazed Chicken Thighs with Toasted Almond Crumble

CookwithNewsletter

Your weeknight dinner just got a decadent dessert-inspired upgrade! These miso-glazed chicken thighs are slathered in a buttery, sweet-savory paste that caramelizes into golden, sticky edges reminiscent of the best bakery cookies—without breaking your keto goals. Toasted almonds and sesame seeds add a nutty crunch, echoing the layered textures of gourmet desserts. The dish balances umami, subtle sweetness, and gentle acidity, rewarding you with richness and energy while keeping carbs low. It’s as comforting as it is energizing—proof that healthy eating can feel like a treat.

Ingredients

Instructions

Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
In a small bowl, mash together white miso paste, softened butter, erythritol, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until a smooth, fluffy paste forms.
Pat chicken thighs very dry with paper towels. Place on prepared baking sheet. Using your hands or a spatula, spread the miso-butter mixture generously over all sides of the thighs, coating completely.
Roast chicken in the upper third of the oven for 18-22 minutes, basting once with pan juices at the 15-minute mark, until deeply caramelized at the edges and cooked through (internal temp should be 165°F). If you want extra caramelization, broil for 2 minutes at the end, watching closely.
While chicken roasts, heat a small dry skillet over medium heat. Add sliced almonds and sesame seeds. Toast, stirring constantly, for 2-3 minutes until golden and fragrant. Transfer to a bowl and toss with lime zest, chopped chives, and a pinch of salt.
Let chicken rest 5 minutes. Slice or serve whole, sprinkled generously with toasted almond crumble. Garnish with extra chives and a wedge of lime if desired.