Chicken Yakitori

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chicken Yakitori is loved for its simplicity and bold flavors. The marinade, made from soy sauce, sake, and mirin, infuses the chicken with a rich umami taste, while the grill imparts a smokiness that adds depth to the dish. It’s a quick and easy recipe that doesn’t require special skills or ingredients, making it an excellent choice for a weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue. These skewers are juicy, flavorful, and perfect for dipping into a tangy tare sauce, adding an extra layer of richness.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 1 lb (450g) chicken thighs, boneless and skinless, cut into bite-sized cubes

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for grilling)

• 1 red bell pepper, cut into pieces (optional)

• 1 onion, cut into chunks (optional)

For the Marinade:

• 1/4 cup soy sauce

• 2 tablespoons mirin (Japanese sweet rice wine)

• 1 tablespoon sake (or dry white wine)

• 1 tablespoon sugar

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated

• 1 tablespoon sesame oil (optional, for added flavor)

For the Tare Sauce (Optional for extra flavor):

• 1/4 cup soy sauce

• 2 tablespoons mirin

• 1 tablespoon sugar

• 1 tablespoon sake

• 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, to thicken the sauce)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Marinate the chicken: In a medium bowl, combine soy sauce, mirin, sake, sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and sesame oil (if using). Add the chicken pieces and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.

2. Prepare the skewers: Soak wooden skewers in water for 10 minutes to prevent them from burning while grilling. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, alternating with vegetables like bell pepper and onion if desired.

3. Grill the chicken: Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Lightly brush the grill with vegetable oil. Grill the chicken skewers for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has a slightly charred exterior. Brush the skewers with the marinade during grilling for extra flavor.

4. Make the tare sauce (optional): In a small saucepan, combine soy sauce, mirin, sugar, and sake. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly. If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix cornstarch with a small amount of water and add it to the simmering sauce. Once the sauce is ready, remove from heat.

5. Serve: Arrange the grilled chicken skewers on a platter. Drizzle the tare sauce over the top if desired, and garnish with sesame seeds or chopped green onions for added flavor.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 4 people. The preparation time is approximately 15 minutes for marinating the chicken, with an additional 10 minutes for skewering and grilling. The total cooking time is about 15 minutes.

Variations

• Vegetarian Yakitori: For a vegetarian version, you can substitute the chicken with tofu, mushrooms, or even vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, or asparagus.

• Different Protein: You can use other meats like pork or beef, or even shrimp, as an alternative to chicken.

• Spicy Yakitori: Add a pinch of chili flakes or drizzle a bit of chili oil over the skewers for a spicy kick.

• Garlic or Herb Marinade: Enhance the flavor of the marinade by adding more garlic, shallots, or fresh herbs like cilantro or basil.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover chicken yakitori in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm the skewers in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave. You can also reheat them on the grill for a few minutes to maintain that smoky flavor.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but they may dry out a little more easily than chicken thighs. Be sure not to overcook the breasts to keep them juicy.

Can I make this recipe without a grill?

Yes, if you don’t have a grill, you can cook the chicken skewers in a grill pan or even bake them in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, turning once halfway through.

Can I prepare the skewers ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate the chicken and assemble the skewers up to 24 hours in advance. Just keep them refrigerated until you’re ready to grill.

Can I make the tare sauce ahead of time?

Yes, the tare sauce can be made in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Simply reheat before serving.

Can I use bottled teriyaki sauce instead of making the tare sauce?

Yes, bottled teriyaki sauce can be a convenient substitute for homemade tare sauce, but making it from scratch gives you more control over the flavor and sweetness.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, ensure you are using gluten-free soy sauce (tamari) instead of regular soy sauce. Additionally, check that your mirin and sake are gluten-free.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check the temperature.

Can I serve chicken yakitori with rice?

Yes, chicken yakitori pairs wonderfully with a side of steamed white rice, jasmine rice, or even fried rice for a more filling meal.

Can I grill the chicken without skewers?

Yes, you can grill the chicken without skewers, either directly on the grill or in a grill pan. Just be sure to turn the chicken frequently for even cooking.

What’s the best way to serve chicken yakitori?

Chicken yakitori is typically served as an appetizer or side dish with rice or noodles. You can also serve it with pickled vegetables, miso soup, or a light salad for a more complete meal.

Conclusion

Chicken Yakitori is a delicious, flavorful dish that brings the best of Japanese street food to your table. With tender, juicy chicken glazed with a savory-sweet marinade and grilled to perfection, it’s the ideal appetizer or main course for any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a BBQ or simply craving a tasty meal, this dish is sure to impress. With just a few simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you’ll be enjoying these flavorful skewers in no time.