Chicken yakitori

Experience the authentic flavors of Japan with this Chicken Yakitori recipe. Made with tender chicken thighs, scallions, and a savory blend of soy sauce, sake, mirin, sugar, ginger, and garlic. Perfect for grilling or broiling, these skewers are a delightful addition to any meal.

  • 03 Apr 2025
  • Cook time 20 min
  • Prep time 35 min
  • 4 Servings
  • 8 Ingredients

Chicken yakitori

Chicken Yakitori is a popular Japanese skewered chicken dish that's flavorful and easy to make. Traditionally grilled over charcoal, Yakitori consists of bite-sized pieces of chicken brushed with a savory-sweet tare sauce. Perfect as an appetizer or a main dish, this recipe brings out the authentic taste of Japanese street food right in your kitchen.

Ingredients:

6 chicken thighs
600g
1/3 cup scallions
40g
1/3 cup soy sauce
80g
1/3 cup sake
72g
1/3 cup mirin
72g
1 tbsp sugar
16g
1 tbsp ginger root
16g
2 garlic cloves
6g

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Marinade:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the soy sauce, sake, mirin, sugar, grated ginger root, and minced garlic. Stir well until the sugar is completely dissolved.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
- Cut the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces, approximately 1-inch cubes.
- Place the chicken pieces in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag.
- Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are well coated.
- Cover the dish or seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours for more intense flavor.
3. Prepare the Skewers:
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent them from burning.
- Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, alternating with pieces of scallion.
4. Cook the Chicken Yakitori:
- Preheat grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
- Brush the grill or grill pan with oil to prevent sticking.
- Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice char. Turn the skewers occasionally and brush with any remaining marinade.
5. Serve:
- Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the grill and transfer to a serving platter.
- Garnish with extra chopped scallions if desired.
- Serve hot with rice or your favorite side dishes.

Tips:

- Use chicken thighs for a juicier and more flavorful yakitori.

- Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning.

- Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes for a richer flavor.

- Brush the chicken with sauce multiple times while grilling for a more caramelized and flavorful coating.

- Grill over medium-high heat to ensure the chicken cooks evenly without burning the sauce.

Enjoy the delicious and authentic flavors of Chicken Yakitori with this simple recipe. The combination of soy sauce, sake, mirin, and ginger creates a savory and slightly sweet sauce that perfectly complements the tender chicken thighs. Serve these skewers with a side of steamed rice or as part of a larger Japanese meal to impress your family and friends.

Nutrition Facts
Serving Size230 grams
Energy
Calories 390kcal20%
Protein
Protein 27g18%
Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates 8g2%
Fiber 0.46g1%
Sugar 4.48g4%
Fat
Fat 24g30%
Saturated 7g23%
Cholesterol 150mg-
Vitamins
Vitamin A 36ug4%
Choline 77mg13%
Vitamin B1 0.12mg10%
Vitamin B2 0.26mg20%
Vitamin B3 7mg46%
Vitamin B6 0.59mg34%
Vitamin B9 10ug2%
Vitamin B12 0.93ug39%
Vitamin C 1.15mg1%
Vitamin E 0.33mg2%
Vitamin K 3.22ug3%
Minerals
Calcium, Ca 22mg2%
Copper, Cu 0.11mg12%
Iron, Fe 1.40mg13%
Magnesium, Mg 45mg11%
Phosphorus, P 280mg22%
Potassium, K 440mg13%
Selenium, Se 30ug53%
Sodium, Na 1210mg81%
Zinc, Zn 2.16mg20%
Water
Water 140g-
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

More recipes

Japanese-style chargrilled chicken

Perfect for a delicious and healthy dinner.

07 Mar 2025

Karaage

An easy and delicious dish that's perfect for any occasion.

17 Apr 2025

Japanese shrimp soba salad

Ready in minutes and packed with vibrant, fresh ingredients.

05 Apr 2025

Japanese noodle fritters

Ready in no time, they bring an authentic taste of Japan to your table.

25 Apr 2025

Teriyaki beef skewers with snow pea salad

Perfect for an easy yet impressive homemade dinner.

26 Mar 2025

Salmon nori rolls with brown rice

Perfect for lunch or a light dinner.

12 Mar 2025

Tamagoyaki

Follow our easy steps for a delicious Japanese treat.

08 Apr 2025

Easy sushi rice

Perfectly seasoned and ready for your next sushi-making adventure.

10 Apr 2025

Posts