Yakitori recipe (Tender grilled chicken skewers)

Servings: 6 Total Time: 20 mins Difficulty: Beginner
Tender grilled chicken skewers with a sweet soy glaze, perfect for an easy and flavorful dinner.
pinit View Gallery 4 photos

Prepare to light up your taste buds with Yakitori, Japan’s iconic grilled chicken skewers smothered in a sweet and savory glaze. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ, whipping up a casual dinner, or just want to feel like you’re strolling through a bustling Tokyo street market, this recipe will transport you straight to Japan. These delightful skewers are perfect for sharing (or hoarding—no judgment here) and pair beautifully with rice, noodles, or even a chilled glass of sake.

But what exactly is Yakitori? Let’s take a quick trip down memory lane. The word “Yakitori” literally translates to “grilled bird” in Japanese, and this dish dates back to Japan’s Edo period (1603–1868), when skewered chicken became a popular street food. Originally sold at roadside stalls, Yakitori was the go-to snack for busy workers craving a quick bite. Today, it’s a staple at izakayas (Japanese pubs) and festivals, beloved for its smoky, umami-packed flavor.

The magic of Yakitori lies in its simplicity. Juicy chicken cubes and tender chunks of leek are grilled to perfection, kissed by the smoky aroma of a hot grill.
And don’t worry, you don’t need a fancy yakitori grill to nail this dish—your trusty skillet or even an oven broiler will do the trick.

For my fabulous culinary adventurers who live for food that’s both tasty and Instagram-worthy, this recipe is for you. You’ll master the art of making authentic Japanese Yakitori, and impress everyone with your grilling skills. So, roll up your sleeves, grab your skewers, and let’s get cooking. Trust me, your dinner guests (or just you!) are in for a treat.

Difficulty: Beginner Prep Time 10 mins Cook Time 10 mins Total Time 20 mins
Servings: 6

Description

Yakitori is a classic Japanese dish featuring juicy chicken skewers glazed with a sweet and savory sauce. Great for casual dinners, BBQs, or as an appetizer.

Ingredients

Instructions

Yakitori

  1. Prepare the Chicken
    Cut the chicken into 2 cm cubes. Season lightly with salt.
  2. Prep the Leeks
    Clean and cut the leek into 2 cm chunks. Boil in salted water for 5 minutes, then drain.
  3. Assemble the Skewers
    Thread the chicken and leeks alternately onto skewers.
  4. Cook the Skewers
    Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add skewers, cover, and cook for 5–7 minutes, turning frequently for even cooking.
  5. Make the Sauce
    In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, sake, and sugar. Pour over the skewers and cook until the sauce thickens into a glaze, coating the skewers evenly.
  6. Serve
    Remove from heat and serve immediately with rice or noodles. Enjoy your Yakitori while warm!
Keywords: yakitori recipe, Japanese grilled chicken, sweet soy glaze, chicken skewers recipe, yakitori

Did you make this recipe?

Pin this recipe to share with your friends and followers.

pinit

Frequently Asked Questions

Expand All:
Can I make Yakitori without skewers?

Totally! Simply cook the chicken and leeks in a pan and drizzle the sauce over them.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breast?

Yes you can! Thigh meat is juicier and more forgiving, especially on the grill.

What can I serve with Yakitori?

Yakitori pairs beautifully with steamed rice, noodles, or even a fresh salad to balance the savory flavors.

Do I need sake for the recipe?

Sake adds depth to the sauce, but if you don’t have it, mirin or dry white wine can work in a pinch.

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *