Japanese Chicken Yakitori

Why Make This Recipe

Japanese Chicken Yakitori is a tasty and fun dish to make. It has a sweet and savory sauce that makes the chicken juicy and full of flavor.

Plus, grilling it on skewers adds a nice touch. This recipe is great for gatherings or a simple dinner at home.

How To Make Japanese Chicken Yakitori

Ingredients:

• 5–6 pieces boneless chicken breast or 6–8 pieces boneless chicken thighs
• 1/3 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup + 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh ginger, minced
• 6–7 wooden skewers (soaked in water)

Directions:

1. Soak the wooden skewers in water for 10–20 minutes.
2. In a bowl, mix the soy sauce, water, brown sugar, and vinegar until the sugar dissolves.
3. Trim and cut the chicken into 1–2 inch chunks. Marinate it with minced garlic, ginger, pepper, and some of the sauce for at least 10 minutes.
4. Cook the remaining sauce in a saucepan until it thickens with a cornstarch slurry.
5. Thread the marinated chicken onto the skewers and grill them over medium-high heat for about 8–12 minutes, basting with the thickened sauce.

Prep Time And Nutrition Facts

This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes to cook, making a total of 30 minutes. It serves 4 people and each serving has about 350 calories, with a good amount of protein and less fat, making it a healthy option.

How To Serve Japanese Chicken Yakitori

Serve Japanese Chicken Yakitori hot off the grill. You can pair it with rice or a fresh salad for a complete meal. It also makes a great appetizer when served with dipping sauces.

How To Store Japanese Chicken Yakitori

If you have leftovers, let the chicken cool completely. Then, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay good for about 2-3 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the grill.

Tips To Make Japanese Chicken Yakitori

• Make sure to soak the skewers well to prevent them from burning on the grill.
• You can add vegetables, like bell peppers or onions, to the skewers for more flavor and nutrition.
• Adjust the sweetness of the sauce by adding more or less brown sugar to suit your taste.

Health And Benefits Of This Recipe

This recipe is healthy because it uses lean chicken which is high in protein. Protein is important for building muscles and keeping you strong. The garlic and ginger add flavor and offer health benefits, such as helping to boost your immunity. This dish is balanced, providing protein and some carbohydrates, making it a good meal choice.

Variation (If Any)

You can try using different types of meat, like pork or beef, instead of chicken. Some people also like to add a variety of colorful vegetables to the skewers, making it even more nutritious and delicious.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken with the skin on?
Yes, you can use chicken with the skin on if you prefer. It will be a bit richer and juicier.

2. What can I serve with Yakitori?
You can serve it with rice, a green salad, or even some pickled vegetables.

3. Can I make Yakitori ahead of time?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken ahead of time and store it in the fridge until you are ready to grill it.

Enjoy making and eating Japanese Chicken Yakitori!