Japanese chicken yakitori
Discover the authentic flavors of Japanese Chicken Yakitori with our easy recipe! Savory chicken thighs marinated in a blend of soy sauce, chicken gravy, mirin, and sugar, skewered with fresh scallions, and grilled to perfection. Perfect for a delicious and festive meal that's sure to impress. Explore our step-by-step guide to make this traditional favorite at home!
- 12 Apr 2025
- Cook time 11 min
- Prep time 40 min
- 4 Servings
- 6 Ingredients
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.
Ingredients:
Instructions:
- 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.
- While the sauce is cooling, cut the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces, approximately 1 to 1.5 inches.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
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.
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.
| Nutrition Facts | |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | 390 grams |
| Energy | |
| Calories 740kcal | 37% |
| Protein | |
| Protein 50g | 35% |
| Carbohydrates | |
| Carbohydrates 16g | 5% |
| Fiber 0.49g | 1% |
| Sugar 13g | 13% |
| Fat | |
| Fat 50g | 59% |
| Saturated 14g | 46% |
| Cholesterol 290mg | - |
| Vitamins | |
| Vitamin A 70ug | 8% |
| Choline 140mg | 26% |
| Vitamin B1 0.24mg | 20% |
| Vitamin B2 0.50mg | 38% |
| Vitamin B3 15mg | 91% |
| Vitamin B6 1.10mg | 65% |
| Vitamin B9 16ug | 4% |
| Vitamin B12 1.86ug | 78% |
| Vitamin C 1.02mg | 1% |
| Vitamin E 0.64mg | 4% |
| Vitamin K 6ug | 5% |
| Minerals | |
| Calcium, Ca 33mg | 3% |
| Copper, Cu 0.18mg | 20% |
| Iron, Fe 2.53mg | 23% |
| Magnesium, Mg 80mg | 18% |
| Phosphorus, P 530mg | 42% |
| Potassium, K 770mg | 23% |
| Selenium, Se 54ug | 104% |
| Sodium, Na 1940mg | 129% |
| Zinc, Zn 4.17mg | 38% |
| Water | |
| Water 240g | - |
| * Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs. | |
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