Yakitori (Japanese Grilled Chicken Skewers)

Savor the smoky, savory essence of Japanese street food with Yakitori, a beloved dish made by grilling tender chicken pieces on skewers and glazing them with a sweet and salty tare sauce. Perfect for gatherings, casual dinners, or as a tasty appetizer, Yakitori brings the charm of Japanese izakayas straight to your table.

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450 g) boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 bunch green onions (scallions), cut into 2-inch pieces
• Bamboo skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes

For the Tare Sauce

• ½ cup soy sauce
• ¼ cup mirin (sweet rice wine)
• ¼ cup sake
• 2 tablespoons sugar

Instructions

1. Make the Tare Sauce

   In a small saucepan, combine soy sauce, mirin, sake, and sugar. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10–15 minutes until slightly thickened. Set aside to cool.

2. Prepare the Skewers

   Thread chicken pieces and green onion alternately onto the soaked bamboo skewers, leaving space at the end of each skewer for handling.

3. Grill the Yakitori

   Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium heat. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 3–4 minutes per side, basting with the tare sauce as they cook, until the chicken is caramelized and cooked through.

4. Serve

   Arrange the skewers on a platter and brush with a final coat of tare sauce. Serve hot.

Serving

Enjoy Yakitori with steamed rice, pickled vegetables, or as part of a Japanese tapas-style meal. Pair with cold beer or sake to complete the authentic izakaya experience.

Bring home the irresistible taste of Japan with Yakitori - juicy, smoky chicken skewers glazed with a flavorful sauce that balances sweetness and savoriness in every bite. Whether shared at a party or savored on a quiet night in, Yakitori is sure to delight.