There’s something deeply comforting about a bowl of Tonkotsu-style Chicken Ramen. The velvety, collagen-rich broth, the tender chicken slices, perfectly soft-boiled egg, and a touch of fresh green vegetables create a symphony of flavors. This dish brings families together around the table, making hearts warm and bellies full. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience. Perfect for a cozy night in or a special family gathering, this recipe offers a unique twist by using chicken bones to create that classic tonkotsu richness. Dive into your sense of creativity and make this delightful bowl a centerpiece of your culinary adventures!
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 5 hours
Total Time: 5 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Skill Level: Intermediate
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs with bones and skin
- 2 cups chicken bones (extra for broth)
- 8 cups water
- 1 onion, halved
- 1 head garlic, halved horizontally
- 4-inch piece of ginger, sliced thickly
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon miso paste
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 soft-boiled eggs, peeled
- 8 ounces ramen noodles
- 1 cup spinach leaves
- 1 cup sliced green onions
- 1 cup bean sprouts
- Sesame seeds, for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot, place the chicken bones and cover with water. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Skim off any impurities that rise to the surface.
- Add the onion, garlic, and ginger to the pot. Cover and simmer for 4-5 hours until the broth is creamy and rich. Remove the bones and strain the broth into another pot.
- In the meantime, season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. In a separate pan, sear them skin-side down until crispy and fully cooked. Set aside.
- Once the broth is ready, stir in the soy sauce and miso paste. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cook the ramen noodles according to package instructions. Drain and divide into four bowls.
- Top each bowl with a portion of sliced chicken, soft-boiled egg, spinach, green onions, and bean sprouts.
- Ladle the hot broth over the assembled ingredients and garnish with sesame seeds.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the warm comfort of your homemade Tonkotsu-style Chicken Ramen!
Helpful Tips
- If you’re new to making broth, don’t rush it. Letting it simmer for a long time is key to extracting all the flavors and nutrients from the bones.
- For a quicker version, use high-quality store-bought chicken broth as a base and enhance it with the aromatics and chicken thighs.
Storage Instructions
Leftover broth can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Store the noodles, chicken, and toppings separately to maintain their textures when reheating.
Substitutions
- You can use chicken breast if preferred, though thighs offer a richer flavor.
- Swap spinach with bok choy or kale for a different green veggie experience.
Pairings
This flavorful ramen pairs wonderfully with a side of gyoza (Japanese dumplings) and a refreshing cup of green tea. For a sweet finish, consider serving a light dessert like mochi ice cream.
At Zynahz, we believe that cooking should be a joyous and creative journey. Our mission is to bring families together around delicious meals, sparking fun and heartfelt connections. We hope you enjoy making this Tonkotsu-style Chicken Ramen Recipe as much as we did sharing it with you. Share your delicious results with us and spread the joy to your friends and family. Explore more of our tasty creations, follow us on social media, and sign up for our newsletter for your daily dose of culinary inspiration!