Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsZINC New HavenCharred Japanese Chicken Recipe

Charred Japanese Chicken Recipe

Inspired by ZINC New Haven
Time2h
Serves4

Koji Marinated Chicken / Sushi Rice / Yakiniku Dipping Sauce / Bok Choy / Sunomono

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients

Method

Cooking Instructions

  1. 1

    Marinating the Chicken

    In a bowl, combine koji rice and chicken thighs. Ensure the chicken is evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results.

  2. 2

    Preparing the Sushi Rice

    Rinse sushi rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Cook according to package instructions. Once done, let it cool slightly before serving.

  3. 3

    Making Yakiniku Dipping Sauce

    In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine soy sauce, mirin, sesame oil, sugar, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Stir until sugar dissolves and bring to a simmer. Remove from heat and let cool.

  4. 4

    Preparing Sunomono

    In a small bowl, mix rice vinegar, sugar, and salt until dissolved. Thinly slice cucumber and carrot, then toss them in the dressing. Let sit for about 10 minutes.

  5. 5

    Cooking the Chicken

    Heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Remove chicken from the marinade and grill for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked and charred.

  6. 6

    Cooking the Bok Choy

    In the last few minutes of chicken cooking, add bok choy to the grill. Grill for 2-3 minutes until tender but still vibrant.

  7. 7

    Serving

    On a plate, serve the grilled chicken alongside sushi rice, grilled bok choy, and sunomono. Drizzle with yakiniku dipping sauce.

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