Garlic Miso Chicken from Zippy's features tender chicken marinated in a savory garlic miso sauce, grilled to perfection with a golden-brown glaze, and served alongside steamed vegetables for a flavorful and wholesome meal.
Equipments
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Grill or grill pan
- Tongs
- Baking sheet (optional, if baking instead of grilling)
- Brush (for glaze)
- Plate (for serving)
- Steamer or pot with steamer basket (for vegetables)
Ingredients
- 2 lbs (900g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 3 tablespoons white miso paste
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons mirin
- 2 tablespoons sake
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for grilling)
- Assorted vegetables (such as broccoli, carrots, and snap peas)
Make sure to use white miso paste to achieve the authentic savory flavor essential to Garlic Miso Chicken from Zippy's. Fresh garlic and ginger are key to enhancing the marinade's depth, while mirin and sake add a subtle sweetness and complexity. Opt for boneless, skinless chicken thighs as they stay juicy and tender during grilling. You may substitute grilling with baking, but brushing the chicken with the garlic miso glaze is crucial for that golden-brown finish. Your Garlic Miso Chicken from Zippy's copycat menu will closely match the restaurant's signature dish with these ingredient essentials.
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine white miso paste, soy sauce, mirin, sake, sugar, minced garlic, minced ginger, and sesame oil. Whisk until smooth.
- Trim and cut chicken thighs as desired on a cutting board using a knife.
- Add chicken thighs to the marinade; toss to coat well. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight.
- While chicken marinates, prepare assorted vegetables by washing and cutting as needed.
- Preheat grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Brush with vegetable oil.
- Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess drip off.
- Grill chicken for 5–7 minutes per side or until golden-brown and cooked through, using tongs to turn.
- While chicken cooks, steam assorted vegetables in a steamer or pot with steamer basket until just tender.
- Brush chicken with remaining marinade (optional) for extra glaze during last minute of grilling.
- Transfer cooked chicken to a plate.
- Arrange steamed vegetables alongside chicken on the plate for serving.
Substitution
Garlic Miso Chicken from Zippy's copycat menu shines with its rich miso and garlic marinade that delivers deep umami flavors. If white miso paste is unavailable, you can substitute with yellow miso or a blend of miso and tahini for a similar creamy texture. When a grill or grill pan is not accessible, baking the chicken on a greased baking sheet at 400degF (200degC) for 20-25 minutes works well while still achieving a golden-brown finish. You may swap sake with dry sherry or omit it altogether if needed, just adjusting the marinade balance slightly. Your steamed vegetables can be varied based on seasonal availability for a fresh complement to the main dish.
Tips
Ensure your chicken thighs are evenly trimmed for uniform cooking and better marinade absorption. Marinate the chicken in the refrigerator for a minimum of 2 hours to allow the garlic miso sauce to deeply infuse flavor. Use a grill or grill pan preheated to medium-high and brush with vegetable oil to prevent sticking and achieve the perfect golden-brown glaze. Remember to steam vegetables just until tender to retain their vibrant color and fresh taste alongside your savory chicken.
Nutritions
Garlic Miso Chicken from Zippy's offers a high-protein meal with lean chicken thighs providing essential amino acids for muscle repair and energy. The white miso paste adds probiotics and a moderate amount of sodium, supporting gut health but requiring mindful consumption for those monitoring salt intake. Steamed vegetables like broccoli, carrots, and snap peas contribute fiber, vitamins A and C, and antioxidants to enhance overall nutrition. Your dish balances savory flavors with nutrient-dense ingredients, making it a wholesome choice for a nutritious meal.
Storage
Store any leftover Garlic Miso Chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate promptly to maintain freshness and prevent spoilage. You can keep the chicken and vegetables separate to preserve their individual textures, with the chicken lasting up to 3-4 days in the fridge. For longer storage, freeze the chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months, making sure to thaw it safely overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts for a leaner option, though grilling time may be slightly reduced to prevent drying out. Instead of grilling, bake the chicken on a lined baking sheet at 400degF (200degC) for 20-25 minutes, basting with glaze halfway through for caramelization. Swap white miso paste with red miso for a stronger, earthier flavor profile that adds depth to your dish. For an extra smoky taste, add a touch of smoked paprika to the marinade before cooking.
Allergies
The Garlic Miso Chicken from Zippy's contains miso paste and soy sauce, both of which include soy, a common allergen that may cause reactions in sensitive individuals. Garlic and ginger, while less common allergens, can still trigger sensitivities or digestive issues for some people. If you have known allergies to soy, sesame, or alliums like garlic, it is important to verify ingredients and preparation methods to ensure your meal is safe.
Why this recipe?
Garlic Miso Chicken from Zippy's restaurant combines savory miso richness with aromatic garlic, creating a perfectly balanced flavor profile that appeals to a wide audience. The tender chicken, marinated and grilled to juicy perfection, offers a satisfying texture that enhances every bite. You'll appreciate how the harmonious blend of traditional Japanese ingredients and comforting American flavors makes this dish a standout choice. Recreating this recipe at home lets you enjoy restaurant-quality taste while customizing spice levels and portion sizes to suit your preferences.