Yakitori (Japanese Grilled Chicken Skewers)

Yakitori is a popular Japanese street food made with bite-sized pieces of chicken grilled on skewers over an open flame. Marinated in a sweet and savory glaze, these juicy chicken skewers are perfect as a quick appetizer, party snack, or main dish served with rice. Simple, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying, Yakitori is a must-try for anyone who loves Japanese cuisine.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Authentic Japanese flavor with minimal ingredients
• Perfectly grilled, juicy chicken every time
• Great as an appetizer or main dish
• Easy to prepare with a delicious homemade sauce
• Fun to cook on the grill or stovetop

Ingredients

this Recipe

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

• Boneless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Salt and pepper
• Bamboo or metal skewers
• Soy sauce
• Mirin (sweet Japanese rice wine)
• Sake (Japanese rice wine)
• Sugar
• Optional: scallions or green onions, cut into 1-inch pieces

Directions

1. Soak bamboo skewers in water for at least 30 minutes if using, to prevent burning on the grill.
2. Make the tare (yakitori sauce) by combining soy sauce, mirin, sake, and sugar in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 10 minutes until slightly thickened. Set aside to cool.
3. Thread chicken pieces onto skewers, alternating with scallions if using. Lightly season with salt and pepper.
4. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates or pan.
5. Grill the skewers, turning every couple of minutes. After 5–6 minutes, begin brushing with the tare sauce during the last few minutes of grilling, allowing the glaze to caramelize.
6. Remove from grill once chicken is cooked through and slightly charred on the edges, about 10–12 minutes total.
7. Serve hot, with extra sauce for dipping if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus optional marinating time)
• Cook Time: 10–12 minutes
• Total Time: 30–35 minutes

Variations

• Negima Yakitori: Alternate chicken pieces with scallion chunks on the skewers.
• Tsukune (Chicken Meatball Skewers): Use ground chicken mixed with egg and breadcrumbs, shaped into small patties.
• Spicy Yakitori: Add a touch of chili paste or sprinkle with shichimi togarashi (Japanese seven-spice).
• Glazed Veggies: Skewer mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers and glaze with tare sauce.
• Sweet Miso Twist: Mix a little miso into the tare sauce for a deeper umami flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a hot skillet or oven at 350°F until warmed through. Brush with additional sauce if desired.

FAQs

What is yakitori sauce made of?

Traditional yakitori sauce (tare) is made with soy sauce, mirin, sake, and sugar simmered until slightly thickened.

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, but thighs are juicier and more traditional. Just be careful not to overcook chicken breast.

Do I need a grill to make yakitori?

No, you can use a grill pan, broiler, or even an oven. A smoky grill flavor is traditional but not required.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

You can marinate in the tare sauce for 30 minutes if you want deeper flavor, but it’s not necessary since the sauce is brushed on while grilling.

Can I make yakitori without mirin or sake?

Yes, substitute mirin with a mix of rice vinegar and sugar. For sake, you can use dry white wine or omit and use extra mirin and soy.

What should I serve with yakitori?

Steamed rice, miso soup, pickled vegetables, or a Japanese cucumber salad pair well.

Can I make the sauce in advance?

Yes, tare sauce can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to a week.

Is yakitori spicy?

Not by default—it’s sweet and savory. You can add heat with chili flakes or a spicy dipping sauce.

Can I use other meats?

Absolutely! Pork belly, beef, or even tofu can be prepared yakitori-style.

How do I prevent the skewers from burning?

Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before grilling, or use metal skewers.

Conclusion

Yakitori is a simple yet flavorful Japanese dish that delivers juicy, grilled chicken with a sweet-savory glaze in every bite. Whether you’re making it as a party snack or a full meal, it’s an easy recipe that brings authentic street food flavor right to your kitchen or backyard grill.

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