Name: Delicious Chicken Yakitori: 7 Steps to Perfection
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Japanese
Ingredients: 650 g Chicken Thighs (boneless and skinless); ½ tsp Salt; ¼ tsp Pepper; ½ tbsp Vegetable Oil; Sesame Seeds (garnish); ¼ cup Soy Sauce; ¼ cup Brown Sugar; ½ cup Water; 2 clove Garlic (minced); 1 tsp Ginger (grated); 1 tsp Sesame Oil; ½ tbsp Honey; 1 tbsp Cornstarch; 1 tbsp Water

Jump to Recipe

Chicken Yakitori is a delightful Japanese dish that features grilled chicken skewers glazed with a sweet and savory sauce. This dish is not only popular in Japan but has also become a favorite worldwide due to its flavorful marinade and simple preparation. The smoky aroma of grilled chicken combined with the rich flavors of the sauce creates an unforgettable culinary experience. Let’s dive into the world of Chicken Yakitori and learn how to create this delicious dish at home!

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Yakitori

There are countless reasons to adore this Japanese chicken yakitori recipe. First, it’s incredibly easy to make, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Second, the taste is simply irresistible, thanks to the combination of savory soy sauce, sweet brown sugar, and aromatic ginger and garlic. Third, it’s a versatile dish, allowing you to experiment with different ingredients or sauces. Additionally, it’s a great way to impress family and friends with your cooking skills. Finally, grilled chicken skewers are always a hit at parties, making this dish a perfect appetizer or main course.

Ingredients for Chicken Yakitori

Gather these items:

650 g Chicken Thighs (boneless and skinless)
½ tsp Salt
¼ tsp Pepper
½ tbsp Vegetable Oil
Sesame Seeds (garnish)
¼ cup Soy Sauce
¼ cup Brown Sugar
½ cup Water
2 clove Garlic (minced)
1 tsp Ginger (grated)
1 tsp Sesame Oil
½ tbsp Honey
1 tbsp Cornstarch
1 tbsp Water

How to Make Chicken Yakitori Step-by-Step

Step 1: Slice chicken into bite-size cubes then season with salt, pepper, and vegetable oil.
Step 2: Skewer the chicken pieces onto the soaked bamboo skewers, four pieces per skewer. Set aside.
Step 3: For the sauce, combine all ingredients except cornstarch slurry in a bowl. Heat in a pan over medium heat, and once boiling, add cornstarch slurry, stir and cook until thickened, then turn off the heat.
Step 4: Heat grill pan over medium heat, cook the chicken for 5 minutes each side, then brush the sauce all over the chicken and cook for 2 minutes each side.
Step 5: Brush the sauce again and cook for 2 minutes each side.
Step 6: Brush for the last time and remove from the grill pan.
Step 7: Garnish with sesame seeds and serve. Enjoy!

Pro Tips for the Perfect Chicken Yakitori

Keep these in mind:

Soak bamboo skewers for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
Ensure the chicken is cut evenly for uniform cooking.
Try to avoid overcrowding the grill; this will ensure even cooking.
Experiment with different marinades and sauces for unique flavors.
Serve with a side of steamed rice or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.

Best Ways to Serve Chicken Yakitori

There are numerous ways to enjoy grilled chicken skewers. Serve them as a main dish with a side of rice or noodles, or make them the star of your next gathering as a delightful appetizer. Pair with a refreshing salad or some pickled vegetables to balance the flavors. You can also try adding different sauces, such as teriyaki or spicy mayo, for an extra kick!

Delicious Chicken Yakitori: 7 Steps to Perfection - Chicken Yakitori - additional detail

How to Store and Reheat Chicken Yakitori

To store leftovers, place the chicken yakitori in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last up to three days. When reheating, use a microwave or a grill to warm it up, brushing with extra sauce to maintain moisture. This dish is also perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy it throughout the week!

Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Yakitori

What’s the secret to perfect Chicken Yakitori?

The secret lies in marinating the chicken properly and achieving the right grilling temperature. The marinade should balance sweet and savory flavors, enhancing the natural taste of the chicken.

Can I make Chicken Yakitori ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and marinade a day in advance. Just store the marinated chicken in the refrigerator and skewer it right before grilling. This makes it an excellent option for meal prep!

How do I avoid common mistakes with Chicken Yakitori?

To avoid mistakes, ensure you do not overcrowd the grill and keep an eye on the cooking time. Also, make sure the chicken is cooked thoroughly to prevent any food safety issues.

Variations of Chicken Yakitori You Can Try

If you want to add a twist to your Japanese chicken yakitori recipe, consider using different proteins like beef or tofu. You can also try different marinades with ingredients like miso or citrus for unique flavor profiles. For a spicy kick, add some chili paste to your sauce!

For more delicious recipes, check out our latest recipes, or try making Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake for a healthy twist. If you’re in the mood for something sweet, don’t miss our Cosmic Brownie Bites!

Delicious Chicken Yakitori: 7 Steps to Perfection

Author: Jannet Lisa
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

Print Recipe

Description

Grilled chicken skewers glazed with a sweet and savory sauce.

Instructions

Slice chicken into bite size cubes then season with salt, pepper and vegetable oil.
Skewer the chicken pieces onto the soaked bamboo skewers, four pieces per skewer. Set aside.
For the sauce, combine all ingredients except cornstarch slurry in a bowl. Heat in a pan over medium heat, and once boiling, add cornstarch slurry, stir and cook until thickened, then turn off the heat.
Heat grill pan over medium heat, cook the chicken for 5 minutes each side, then brush the sauce all over the chicken and cook for 2 minutes each side.
Brush the sauce again and cook for 2 minutes each side.
Brush for the last time and remove from the grill pan.
Garnish with sesame seeds and serve. Enjoy!