Delicious Miso Chicken with Brown Rice and Smashed Cucumber Salad

This Miso Chicken dish with fluffy brown rice and fresh smashed cucumber salad is an absolute winner! The umami-rich miso glaze pairs perfectly with the refreshing crunch of cucumbers, creating a balanced and vibrant meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.

Ingredients:

For the Miso Chicken:

• 2 chicken breasts or thighs, boneless and skinless
• 2 tablespoons white miso paste
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger

For the Brown Rice:

• 1 cup uncooked brown rice
• 2 cups water
• Pinch of salt

For the Smashed Cucumber Salad:

• 2 medium cucumbers
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• ½ teaspoon sugar
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds

Instructions:

Prepare the Chicken:

1. In a bowl, whisk together miso paste, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger.
2. Coat the chicken generously with the miso marinade. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes (up to 4 hours).
3. Heat a pan over medium-high heat, add a drizzle of oil, and sear the chicken on each side until golden brown. Reduce heat and continue cooking until fully cooked through.

Cook the Brown Rice:

1. Rinse brown rice and add to a pot with water and salt.
2. Bring to a boil, cover, and reduce heat to a simmer. Cook for about 35-40 minutes, until rice is fluffy and water is absorbed.

Make the Smashed Cucumber Salad:

1. Gently smash cucumbers with the back of a knife or rolling pin, then cut into bite-sized pieces.
2. In a bowl, combine rice vinegar, sesame oil, soy sauce, sugar, and red pepper flakes. Mix well.
3. Toss cucumbers in the dressing and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds.

Extra Tips for Success:

• Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after cooking to keep it juicy.
• Use Persian or English cucumbers for a less watery salad.

Why This Recipe Works:

The miso glaze brings incredible savory depth, perfectly complementing the nutty flavor of brown rice. The refreshing cucumber salad adds texture, brightness, and contrast, making this dish deliciously balanced and satisfying.