Easy Chicken Yakitori is a classic Japanese street-food dish made with tender pieces of chicken grilled on skewers and brushed with a sweet-savory soy-based glaze. Simple ingredients and quick cooking make this recipe perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
Easy Chicken Yakitori:
Traditionally cooked over charcoal, yakitori can be easily prepared at home using a grill pan, oven, or outdoor grill. The combination of juicy chicken and glossy sauce delivers authentic Japanese flavor with minimal effort.Loved as both street food and a comfort dish, Chicken Yakitori is quick to prepare and incredibly versatile. Whether served as an appetizer, a main course, or part of a casual gathering, it delivers authentic Japanese taste while remaining easy enough to make at home.
History:
Yakitori originated in Japan during the Edo period and quickly became popular as affordable street food. Small skewers of chicken were grilled over open flames and seasoned simply with salt (shio) or a sauce called tare. Today, yakitori is enjoyed in izakayas across Japan and around the world as a beloved comfort food.
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Easy Chicken Yakitori
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 500 g boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
- Wooden skewers (soaked in water for 20 minutes)
For the Yakitori Sauce (Tare):
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons mirin
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon sake (optional)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
Optional Garnish:
- Chopped spring onions
- Sesame seeds
Instructions
- Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- Thread chicken pieces onto soaked skewers.
- In a small saucepan, combine soy sauce, mirin, sugar, sake, and garlic.
- Simmer sauce for 5–7 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Heat a grill pan or outdoor grill over medium heat.
- Grill skewers for 8–10 minutes, turning frequently.
- Brush with yakitori sauce during the last few minutes of grilling.
- Remove from heat and garnish before serving.
Notes
- Chicken thighs stay juicier than breasts.
- Soaking skewers prevents burning.
- Sauce thickens as it cools.
- Grill on medium heat to avoid burning sugar.
- Best served hot and fresh.
Tips for Chicken Yakitori:
- Add spring onions between chicken pieces.
- Use honey instead of sugar for a richer glaze.
- Broil in the oven if no grill is available.
- Turn skewers often for even cooking.
- Serve with steamed rice for a full meal.
FAQs for Chicken Yakitori:
Q1: Can I bake chicken yakitori?
Yes, bake at 200°C (400°F) for 15–18 minutes, brushing with sauce.
Q2: Is mirin necessary?
Mirin adds sweetness, but sugar can substitute.
Q3: Can I make the sauce ahead?
Yes, store in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Q4: Is yakitori spicy?
No, it is sweet and savory, not spicy.
Q5: What can I serve with yakitori?
Rice, salad, or stir-fried vegetables pair well.
Conclusion:
Easy Chicken Yakitori is a delicious introduction to Japanese cuisine, offering rich flavor with simple preparation. Whether grilled indoors or outdoors, these skewers are perfect for quick dinners, appetizers, or party platters.