Japanese chicken yakitori

Japanese Chicken Yakitori features skewered and grilled chicken thighs glazed with a sweet and savoury soy sauce marinade. This easy recipe delivers authentic flavours reminiscent of Japanese street food.

13 Jan 2026
Cook time 11 min
Prep time 40 min

Ingredients:

1/2 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup chicken gravy
1/3 cup mirin
1/4 cup sugar
12 chicken thighs
1 cup scallions

Yakitori is a classic Japanese dish consisting of skewered and grilled chicken, often enjoyed at izakayas or Japanese street food stalls. Our Japanese Chicken Yakitori recipe combines tender, savory chicken thighs with a flavorful soy-based marinade, creating the perfect balance of sweet and salty flavor. This dish is easy to prepare and perfect for a delicious and authentic meal at home.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Sauce:
- In a small saucepan, combine the soy sauce, chicken gravy, mirin, and sugar.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has completely dissolved and the sauce begins to thicken slightly. This should take around 5-7 minutes.
- Remove the sauce from the heat and set it aside to cool. This will be your yakitori glaze.

2. Prepare the Chicken:
- While the sauce is cooling, cut the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces, approximately 1 to 1.5 inches.

3. Assemble the Skewers:
- Thread the chicken pieces onto the soaked bamboo skewers, alternating with pieces of scallion. Each skewer should have a mix of chicken and scallions, and not be overcrowded.

4. Grill the Yakitori:
- Preheat your grill or a grill pan over medium-high heat. Make sure the grill grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
- Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, turning frequently to prevent burning.
- While grilling, brush the skewers with the yakitori glaze frequently, allowing the sauce to coat and caramelize on the chicken.

5. Finish and Serve:
- Continue to grill and baste until the chicken is fully cooked through and has a nice, slightly charred appearance, about 10-12 minutes total.
- Remove the skewers from the grill and give them one final brush with the glaze.

6. Serving Suggestion:
- Serve the yakitori skewers hot, with any remaining glaze on the side for additional dipping.
- They pair well with steamed rice and sautéed vegetables, or as a savory appetizer at a party.

This Japanese Chicken Yakitori recipe is not only simple to make but is also an excellent way to enjoy authentic Japanese flavors right at home. The smoky, savory skewers, paired with the sweet and salty marinade, are sure to be a hit with friends and family. Serve your yakitori with steamed rice and a side of pickled vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.

Japanese chicken yakitori FAQ:

What is the appropriate baking or grilling time for yakitori?

Grill the yakitori skewers for about 10-12 minutes total. Cook them for approximately 3-4 minutes on each side, turning frequently to prevent burning and ensure even cooking.

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) and is no longer pink in the center. The exterior should also have a nice char.

Can I make yakitori in advance and store it?

Yes, you can prepare the skewers in advance. Store cooked yakitori in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving to retain flavor and texture.

What can I use instead of mirin in the marinade?

If you don't have mirin, you can substitute it with a mixture of sake and sugar or use a combination of white wine vinegar and sugar to achieve a similar flavor profile.

What kind of skewers should I use for yakitori?

Use bamboo skewers for yakitori, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent them from burning on the grill. Alternatively, metal skewers can also be used.

Tips:

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

- Cut the chicken thighs into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.

- If you don't have an outdoor grill, you can use a grill pan on the stovetop or broil the skewers in the oven.

- Baste the chicken with the marinade several times during grilling to enhance the flavor.

- Serve the yakitori immediately while they are hot and juicy for the best taste.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 740kcal
Protein 50g
Carbohydrates 16g
Fiber 0.49g
Sugar 13g
Fat 50g

Japanese chicken yakitori