Irresistible Japanese Chicken Yakitori Skewers for BBQ Bliss

The aroma of grilled chicken wafts through the air, mingling with the sweet scent of teriyaki glaze. These irresistible Japanese Chicken Yakitori Skewers for Your BBQ are not just a dish; they are an experience that transports you straight to a bustling izakaya in Tokyo. quick chicken stir fry recipe refreshing chicken salad option.

Picture this: it’s a sunny Saturday afternoon, and friends gather on your patio. With laughter filling the air and the grill sizzling, these yakitori skewers become the star of the show. crispy chicken nugget alternative Their tender, juicy chicken is perfectly glazed and charred, ready to impress everyone at your gathering.

I still remember the first time I made these skewers. My friends’ eyes lit up as they took their first bite, declaring them “life-changing.”

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Chicken Thighs: Juicy thighs provide maximum flavor; boneless and skinless work best for easy skewering. For more inspiration, check out this Chicken Caesar Sandwich recipe.

• Green Onions: Use fresh green onions for a pop of color and mild flavor contrast.

• Soy Sauce: Opt for low-sodium soy sauce to control saltiness while ensuring rich flavor.

• Sake: Adds depth; if you can’t find sake, dry white wine is a great substitute.

• Brown Sugar: Balances the salty soy sauce with its sweetness—use packed brown sugar for best results.

• Ginger and Garlic: Freshly grated ginger and minced garlic enhance the aromatic profile beautifully.

• Sesame Oil: A few drops add a nutty finish; use sparingly to avoid overpowering flavors. For more inspiration, check out this Honey Sriracha Salmon Bowls recipe.

For the Sauce:

• Honey: Gives a delightful glaze that caramelizes beautifully on the grill—just like magic!

• Rice Vinegar: Adds acidity to balance sweetness; it brightens up the overall flavor profile.

• Black Sesame Seeds: Optional but highly recommended for garnish; they add crunch and visual appeal.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix soy sauce, sake, brown sugar, ginger, garlic, and sesame oil until sugar dissolves completely. This marinade will infuse your chicken with amazing flavor.

Marinate the Chicken: Cut chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces and place in a resealable bag with half of the marinade. Let it marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes—longer if possible.

Assemble Skewers: Thread marinated chicken pieces onto soaked bamboo or metal skewers. Alternate with pieces of green onion for added flavor and color—this step is crucial for visual appeal!

Preheat Your Grill: Get your grill hot! Aim for medium-high heat (around 400°F/200°C). Lightly oil grates to prevent sticking and ensure those beautiful grill marks.

Sear Those Skewers: Place skewers on the grill and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side until chicken is cooked through and has nice char marks. Brush remaining marinade on chicken during grilling for extra flavor.

Add Final Touches: Remove from grill and drizzle with honey mixed with rice vinegar. Sprinkle black sesame seeds over skewers before serving—this adds that final touch of elegance!

Enjoy these yakitori skewers hot off the grill alongside steamed rice or a refreshing salad.

Now you have everything you need to create irresistible Japanese Chicken Yakitori Skewers for Your BBQ! Happy grilling! hearty air fryer meatloaf.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by marinating the chicken first, allowing flavors to meld while you prepare your grill. This sequence ensures flavorful, tender skewers that cook evenly and retain moisture.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out chicken thighs for breast meat or add veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms. Experimenting with different marinades can also elevate your yakitori’s flavor profile.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, grill on medium heat until warmed through, ensuring they stay juicy and delicious.

My first experience making yakitori was a hilarious disaster—my friends arrived early, and I was still struggling with sticky sauce everywhere! They ended up being my sous chefs, and we laughed through the chaos.

FAQ

What type of chicken is best for yakitori?

Chicken thighs are juicier than breasts, providing better flavor in yakitori.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! Marinate the chicken a day prior for deeper flavors.

What dipping sauce pairs well with yakitori?

A simple soy sauce or spicy mayo complements the skewers perfectly.

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Japanese Chicken Yakitori Skewers

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• Author: Sarah Martinez
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x

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Description

Japanese Chicken Yakitori Skewers are a taste of Tokyo’s vibrant izakayas right in your backyard. These flavorful skewers feature juicy chicken thighs marinated in a sweet and savory teriyaki glaze, grilled to perfection with tender green onions. Ideal for summer barbecues or cozy gatherings, these yakitori skewers promise to be the highlight of any meal.

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Ingredients

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• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 4 green onions, cut into 2-inch pieces
• 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
• 2 tbsp sake (or dry white wine)
• 2 tbsp packed brown sugar
• 1 tsp freshly grated ginger
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• Optional: Black sesame seeds for garnish

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sake, brown sugar, ginger, garlic, and sesame oil until well combined.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Cut chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces and add them to a resealable bag with half of the marinade. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Assemble Skewers: Thread marinated chicken and green onion pieces onto soaked bamboo or metal skewers.
4. Preheat Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high (400°F/200°C) and lightly oil the grates.
5. Grill Skewers: Cook skewers for about 5-7 minutes per side until chicken is fully cooked and has char marks. Brush remaining marinade on during grilling.
6. Finish with Sauce: Remove from grill and drizzle with honey mixed with rice vinegar. Sprinkle black sesame seeds before serving.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Japanese

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 2 skewers (100g)
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 680mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 22g
• Cholesterol: 80mg