Juicy Chicken Yakitori: Sweet and Savory Skewers Recipe
Introduction
Chicken Yakitori is a popular Japanese dish featuring tender, juicy chicken thighs grilled to perfection with a sweet and savory glaze. It’s a simple yet flavorful treat perfect for gatherings or a tasty weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
- 500g chicken thighs, boneless and skin-on
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup mirin
- 2 tablespoons sugar
Instructions
- Step 1: Cut the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces and thread them onto skewers.
- Step 2: In a small saucepan, combine soy sauce, mirin, and sugar. Heat gently until the sugar dissolves, then allow to cool.
- Step 3: Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
- Step 4: Grill the skewered chicken, turning occasionally, while brushing generously with the glaze. Cook until the chicken is cooked through and the glaze is caramelized, about 10-15 minutes.
Tips & Variations
- For a smoky flavor, cook the yakitori over charcoal if possible.
- Try adding chopped green onions or bell peppers to the skewers for extra flavor and color.
- If you prefer a spicy kick, add a pinch of chili flakes to the glaze.
Storage
Store leftover yakitori in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a pan or oven to avoid drying out the chicken. For best taste, enjoy it fresh.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, but chicken thighs are preferred for their juiciness and flavor. If using breast, be careful not to overcook to keep it tender.
How do I keep the skewers from burning on the grill?
Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling, or use metal skewers to prevent burning.
PrintJuicy Chicken Yakitori: Sweet and Savory Skewers Recipe
Chicken Yakitori is a classic Japanese grilled chicken dish featuring tender chicken thighs skewered and glazed with a savory-sweet mixture of soy sauce, mirin, and sugar. It offers a delightful balance of smoky, caramelized flavors, perfect as a snack or a main dish alongside steamed rice or vegetables.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings (about 8 skewers) 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Japanese
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1 lb boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
Yakitori Sauce (Tare)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup mirin
- 2 tablespoons sugar
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Cut the boneless chicken thighs into evenly sized bite-size pieces, about 1 inch, so they cook uniformly on the grill.
- Make the Yakitori Sauce: In a small saucepan, combine soy sauce, mirin, and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves and the sauce slightly thickens. Remove from heat and let it cool.
- Skewer the Chicken: Thread the chicken pieces firmly onto bamboo or metal skewers, leaving a little space between pieces for even cooking.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat, aiming for about 400°F (200°C) for optimal caramelization without burning.
- Grill and Glaze: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 3-4 minutes on one side. Flip the skewers, brush generously with the yakitori sauce, and cook another 3-4 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the glaze caramelizes.
- Repeat Basting: Flip once more and brush additional sauce on the chicken to build layers of flavor and achieve a glossy finish. Remove from grill when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and edges show a slight char.
- Serve: Serve immediately while hot, ideally accompanied by steamed rice or grilled vegetables.
Notes
- Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
- Use skin-on chicken thighs for added juiciness and flavor if preferred.
- You can add chopped scallions or sprinkle shichimi togarashi (Japanese seven spice) before serving for extra flavor.
- Adjust sugar amount in the sauce to your sweetness preference.
Keywords: Chicken Yakitori, Japanese grilled chicken, Yakitori sauce, grilled chicken skewers, Japanese appetizer
