Name: Chicken Yakitori Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Japanese
Ingredients: 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces; 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes; 1/2 cup soy sauce; 1/4 cup mirin; 1/4 cup sake (or substitute with dry white wine); 2 tablespoons brown sugar; 1 garlic clove, minced; 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger

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If you’re looking for a dish that’s simple to prepare yet bursting with deliciously bold flavor, this Chicken Yakitori Recipe is about to become your new weeknight favorite. Tender chicken pieces are threaded onto skewers, grilled to juicy perfection, and glazed with a sweet-savory homemade yakitori sauce that will have everyone reaching for seconds. Whether you’re firing up the backyard grill or using a stovetop grill pan, this classic Japanese street food makes it easy to bring restaurant-quality flavor straight to your own table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the best things about this Chicken Yakitori Recipe is its short list of straightforward ingredients. Each one plays a vital role, from the umami-rich soy sauce to the aromatic ginger, ensuring every bite is packed with authentic flavor and irresistible texture.

Chicken thighs: Boneless, skinless thighs stay wonderfully juicy and are the traditional choice for yakitori.
Vegetable oil: A light brush keeps the chicken from sticking and adds a touch of sheen to the skewers.
Wooden skewers: Soaking them helps prevent burning on the grill, so don’t skip this simple step.
Soy sauce: The backbone of the yakitori sauce, bringing deep, savory notes.
Mirin: This sweet Japanese rice wine balances out the saltiness and adds a lovely gloss to the glaze.
Sake (or dry white wine): Brings subtle complexity; a good white wine is a handy substitute if sake isn’t available.
Brown sugar: Provides sweetness and helps caramelize the sauce for that signature sticky finish.
Garlic: Adds an aromatic punch that rounds out the flavor.
Fresh ginger: Grated ginger gives the sauce a gentle warmth and brightness.

How to Make Chicken Yakitori Recipe

Step 1: Make the Yakitori Sauce (Tare)

Start by preparing the sauce, which is the heart and soul of any Chicken Yakitori Recipe. In a small saucepan, combine the soy sauce, mirin, sake (or dry white wine), brown sugar, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Bring everything to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Let it bubble away for about 8 to 10 minutes, or until the sauce has reduced and thickened enough to coat a spoon. Take it off the heat and let it cool—it will thicken even more as it stands.

Step 2: Skewer the Chicken

While the sauce is cooling, thread the chicken thigh pieces onto your soaked wooden skewers. Make sure to leave a bit of space between each piece to ensure even cooking all around. This little detail helps you get perfectly grilled chicken, every time. Once they’re all threaded, brush each skewer lightly with vegetable oil so they won’t stick to the grill.

Step 3: Grill the Skewers

Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Arrange the chicken skewers in a single layer, and grill them for about 4 to 5 minutes on each side. In the last few minutes of cooking, start brushing the skewers generously with the yakitori sauce. The sauce will sizzle and glaze the chicken, creating that irresistible, shiny finish. Grill until the chicken is fully cooked through and beautifully caramelized.

Step 4: Finish and Serve

Once the skewers are done, transfer them to a serving plate and drizzle with extra yakitori sauce if you like. The aroma is pure magic! Sprinkle with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for a pop of color and added flavor, and serve immediately while they’re hot and juicy.

How to Serve Chicken Yakitori Recipe

Garnishes

For that extra-special touch, top your Chicken Yakitori Recipe with a sprinkle of finely sliced green onions or a scattering of toasted sesame seeds. These simple garnishes add vibrant color and just the right hint of crunch to every bite.

Side Dishes

To round out your meal, serve the skewers with fluffy steamed rice, tangy pickled vegetables, or a refreshing cucumber salad. These sides perfectly complement the sweet-savory flavors of the chicken and make for a satisfyingly balanced plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try arranging the skewers on a large platter and serve family-style, or offer individual dipping bowls of extra yakitori sauce. You can also swap out the chicken for other proteins or add pieces of scallion between the chicken for a classic Japanese touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers (which is rare, trust me!), simply let the skewers cool to room temperature, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The chicken stays moist and flavorful even after reheating.

Freezing

Chicken Yakitori freezes surprisingly well. Remove the chicken from the skewers and place in a freezer-safe bag or container. The sauce can be frozen separately; just be sure to let both cool completely before storing. Both will keep well for up to 2 months.

Reheating

To reheat, thaw the chicken (and sauce, if frozen) in the fridge overnight. Warm the chicken in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through, brushing with extra sauce to refresh the glaze before serving.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Absolutely! While thighs are traditional for their juicy texture, chicken breast works well if you prefer something leaner. Just keep an eye on the grill so they don’t dry out.

Is there a non-alcoholic substitute for sake or mirin?

Yes! For sake, you can use an equal amount of chicken broth or water. For mirin, try a mixture of water and a bit of extra brown sugar to mimic the sweetness.

Can I cook Chicken Yakitori Recipe in the oven?

Definitely. Arrange the skewers on a foil-lined baking sheet and broil on high for about 5 minutes per side, basting with sauce during the last couple of minutes for that classic glaze.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, the yakitori sauce can be made up to 5 days in advance. Store it in an airtight jar in the fridge and reheat gently before using if it thickens up.

What vegetables can I add to the skewers?

Scallions (green onions) are a traditional addition, but you can also try bell peppers, mushrooms, or even zucchini for extra color and flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Yakitori Recipe is pure comfort on a skewer—simple, flavorful, and guaranteed to bring smiles around the table. Give it a try and watch how quickly it becomes a staple in your home cooking rotation!

Chicken Yakitori Recipe

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4.8 from 16 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

This Chicken Yakitori recipe features tender, juicy chicken thighs skewered and grilled to perfection, glazed with a savory and slightly sweet traditional yakitori sauce made from soy sauce, mirin, sake, garlic, and ginger. Perfect for an authentic Japanese-inspired main course, it’s easy to prepare and sure to impress at any meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Skewers

1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes

Yakitori Sauce (Tare)

1/2 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup mirin
1/4 cup sake (or substitute with dry white wine)
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 garlic clove, minced
1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger

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Instructions

Prepare the Yakitori Sauce: In a small saucepan, combine soy sauce, mirin, sake, brown sugar, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Cook for 8 to 10 minutes until the sauce reduces slightly and thickens. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
Thread the Chicken onto Skewers: Thread the chicken thigh pieces evenly onto the soaked wooden skewers, leaving a little space between each piece to ensure even cooking. Brush the chicken lightly with vegetable oil to prevent sticking and promote browning.
Preheat and Grill: Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 4 to 5 minutes on each side. During the last few minutes of cooking, baste generously with the prepared yakitori sauce to create a glossy, flavorful glaze. Continue grilling until the chicken is fully cooked and nicely caramelized.
Serve: Remove the skewers from the grill and serve immediately. Drizzle extra yakitori sauce over the chicken if desired. Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for added flavor and presentation. Pair with steamed rice or fresh salads for a complete meal.

Notes

Chicken thighs are preferred for juiciness and flavor, but chicken breasts can be used for a leaner option.
The yakitori sauce can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Serve with steamed rice, pickled vegetables, or a fresh cucumber salad to complement the flavors.
Soaking wooden skewers prevents them from burning on the grill.
Adjust the sugar amount in the sauce to taste for sweetness preference.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Grilling
Cuisine: Japanese