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Japanese Chicken Yakitori

Authentic Japanese grilled chicken skewers glazed in a savory-sweet soy sauce tare. A quick and delicious protein-packed meal.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizer, Main Course
Cuisine: Asian, Japanese
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Skewers
  • 1.5 lbs chicken thighs boneless, skinless, cubed
  • 1 bunch scallions cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil for grilling
Tare Sauce
  • 0.5 cup soy sauce
  • 0.5 cup mirin
  • 0.25 cup sake or dry sherry
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 inch fresh ginger sliced
Garnish
  • 1 tsp toasted sesame seeds
  • 1 tbsp pickled ginger optional

Equipment

  • Bamboo Skewers
  • Grill Pan or Skillet
  • Small saucepan
  • Basting brush

Method
 

  1. Soak bamboo skewers in water for 30 minutes.
  2. Combine soy sauce, mirin, sake, sugar, garlic, and ginger in a saucepan.
  3. Simmer sauce for 10-15 minutes until slightly thickened. Strain and set aside.
  4. Cut chicken thighs into 1-inch cubes. Thread onto skewers.
  5. Preheat grill or skillet to medium-high heat. Brush with oil.
  6. Grill skewers for 3-4 minutes per side until charred.
  7. Brush generously with sauce and grill for another minute per side to glaze.
  8. Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds and extra scallions.

Notes

Ensure skewers are soaked to prevent burning. Use chicken thighs for best results.