Japanese Chicken Yakitori Recipe is a delightful dish that captures the essence of Japanese cuisine. This grilled chicken skewers dish is popular for its savory flavors and perfectly charred edges. People love it for its simplicity and the joy of enjoying it fresh off the grill. Make it for a casual dinner, during a weekend barbecue, or when friends come over. The magic of grilling the marinated chicken brings out its natural flavors and creates a special experience at home.
Why make this recipe
This recipe is easy and beginner-friendly. It requires common ingredients that you likely have in your pantry. Homemade yakitori tastes better than any store-bought option, and you can control the flavors. It’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings, allowing everyone to enjoy their grilled skewers. Not to mention, this dish is budget-friendly and uses just a few ingredients. It’s a win-win for everyone!
How to make Japanese Chicken Yakitori Recipe
Making Japanese Chicken Yakitori is simple and stress-free. The process involves soaking the skewers, marinating the chicken, and grilling it to perfection. It doesn’t take much time or effort, making it ideal for busy days. In about 30 minutes, you can have a delicious meal ready to serve. Perfect for those new to cooking or those looking to impress at their next dinner.
Ingredients
Use these easy and simple ingredients to make delicious yakitori:
- 5–6 pieces boneless chicken breast or 6–8 pieces boneless chicken thighs
- 1/3 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup + 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, minced
- 6–7 wooden skewers (soaked in water)
Directions
Follow these simple steps to create your Japanese Chicken Yakitori:
- Soak the wooden skewers in water for 10–20 minutes.
- In a bowl, mix the soy sauce, water, red wine (or mirin), brown sugar, and vinegar until the sugar dissolves.
- Trim the chicken and cut it into 1–2 inch chunks. Marinate the chicken with minced garlic, ginger, ground pepper, and some of the sauce for at least 10 minutes.
- Cook the remaining sauce in a saucepan until it thickens with a cornstarch slurry.
- Thread the marinated chicken onto the skewers and grill over medium-high heat for about 8–12 minutes, basting with the thickened sauce.
How to serve Japanese Chicken Yakitori Recipe
There are many delightful ways to enjoy yakitori. Serve it as an appetizer during a meal or make it the highlight of a lunch or dinner. Pair it with steamed rice or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. You can also serve yakitori as a snack at parties or gatherings, where everyone can grab a skewer. Place it on a plate with dipping sauces for extra flavor. This dish is adaptable for any occasion, making it a go-to recipe in your cooking rotation.
How to store Japanese Chicken Yakitori Recipe
To store leftover yakitori, let it cool completely. You can keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to store it longer, consider freezing it. Wrapped tightly, it can last in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat it before serving.
Print
Japanese Chicken Yakitori
- Total Time: 32 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Paleo
Description
Grilled chicken skewers marinated in a savory soy sauce blend, perfect for casual dinners and barbecues.
Ingredients
- 5–6 pieces boneless chicken breast or 6–8 pieces boneless chicken thighs
- 1/3 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup + 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, minced
- 6–7 wooden skewers (soaked in water)
Instructions
- Soak the wooden skewers in water for 10–20 minutes.
- In a bowl, mix the soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, minced ginger, and some additional sauce until the sugar dissolves.
- Trim the chicken and cut it into 1–2 inch chunks. Marinate the chicken with part of the sauce for at least 10 minutes.
- Cook the remaining sauce in a saucepan until it thickens.
- Thread the marinated chicken onto the skewers and grill over medium-high heat for about 8–12 minutes, basting with the thickened sauce.
Notes
For best results, ensure the chicken is cut evenly to cook uniformly. Adjust sweetness of marinade as desired.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Japanese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 skewer
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Tips to make Japanese Chicken Yakitori Recipe
- For the best texture, ensure the chicken is cut evenly so it cooks uniformly.
- Adjust the sweetness of the marinade by adding more or less brown sugar to suit your taste.
- Avoid overcooking the chicken; it should be juicy and tender.
- Use fresh ginger and garlic for a more vibrant flavor in the marinade.
- Don’t skip basting the chicken while grilling for added flavor.
Variation
You can easily customize your yakitori by trying different marinades. Swap out chicken for shrimp or firm tofu for a vegetarian option. Experiment with adding vegetables like bell peppers or onions on the skewers for more variety. If you prefer a spicy kick, add chili flakes to the marinade. These simple variations can enhance the dish and cater to different tastes.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts for the Japanese Chicken Yakitori Recipe?
Yes, boneless chicken thighs work beautifully in this recipe. They remain tender and juicy when grilled.
How can I store leftovers from the Japanese Chicken Yakitori Recipe?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months.
Can I make the Japanese Chicken Yakitori Recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken ahead of time and store it in the fridge for several hours. Just remember to cook it fresh when you’re ready to serve.
