Grilled Chicken Yakitori Skewers are a simple yet deeply satisfying Japanese classic. Tender pieces of chicken are threaded onto skewers and glazed with a sweet-savory tare sauce made from soy, mirin, and sake, then charred over high heat for a perfect caramelized finish. Whether served as an appetizer or main, these skewers bring authentic, bold flavor with every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Grilled Chicken Yakitori Skewers
Classic umami-rich Japanese glaze.
Juicy, tender chicken with smoky char.
Quick and easy grilling recipe.
Perfect for parties, BBQs, or weeknight dinners.
Pairs well with steamed rice or grilled veggies.
Ingredients for Grilled Chicken Yakitori Skewers
Here’s your ingredient cheat sheet—minimal fuss, maximum flavor.
Boneless, skinless chicken thighs: Tender and juicy, these are perfect for skewering. They soak up the marinade beautifully.
Soy sauce: This salty staple adds depth and umami to the dish. Opt for low-sodium if you’re watching your salt intake.
Mirin: A sweet rice wine that brings a hint of sweetness. If you can’t find it, sweet rice wine is a great substitute.
Sake: This Japanese rice wine enhances the flavor. Dry white wine works well if you’re in a pinch.
Brown sugar: It caramelizes beautifully on the grill, giving the chicken a lovely glaze.
Sesame oil: A little goes a long way, adding a nutty aroma that elevates the dish.
Fresh ginger: Grated ginger adds a zesty kick. It’s a must for that authentic flavor.
Minced garlic: This aromatic ingredient brings warmth and richness to the marinade.
Green onions: These are for garnish, adding a pop of color and a fresh crunch.
Bamboo skewers: Soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning on the grill.
For those looking to mix it up, consider adding bell peppers or mushrooms to your skewers. They not only add flavor but also a splash of color. If you like a bit of heat, brush on some sriracha or chili paste before grilling. You can find the exact quantities for each ingredient at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!
How to Make Grilled Chicken Yakitori Skewers
Creating Grilled Chicken Yakitori Skewers is a straightforward process that anyone can master. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll be on your way to grilling perfection!
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
Start by whisking together the soy sauce, mirin, sake, brown sugar, sesame oil, ginger, and garlic in a medium bowl. Keep mixing until the sugar dissolves completely. This marinade is the heart of your skewers, so make sure it’s well combined. The aroma will have you dreaming of summer barbecues!
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Next, add the chicken pieces to the marinade. Make sure each piece is well coated; this is where the magic happens. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for a deeper flavor. The longer it marinates, the more delicious it becomes. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
Step 3: Preheat the Grill
While the chicken is soaking up all that flavor, it’s time to preheat your grill or grill pan. Set it to medium-high heat. Preheating is crucial; it ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and gets those beautiful grill marks. No one wants a sad, undercooked skewer!
Step 4: Assemble the Skewers
Once the chicken is marinated, it’s time to thread it onto the soaked bamboo skewers. Leave a little space between each piece; this allows for even cooking and that lovely char. If you’re adding veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms, alternate them with the chicken for a colorful presentation.
Step 5: Grill the Skewers
Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side. Keep an eye on them to achieve those perfect grill marks. You want the chicken to be cooked through and slightly caramelized. The smell will be irresistible, and your neighbors might just come knocking!
Step 6: Rest and Garnish
After grilling, remove the skewers from the heat and let them rest for a couple of minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, making the chicken even juicier. Finally, garnish with green onion pieces before serving. They add a fresh crunch and a pop of color that makes your dish look as good as it tastes!
Tips for Success
Soak bamboo skewers for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning on the grill.
For extra flavor, marinate the chicken for up to 2 hours.
Keep the grill lid closed while cooking to maintain heat and achieve even cooking.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F for safety.
Experiment with different veggies for added color and taste!
Equipment Needed
Grill or Grill Pan: A charcoal or gas grill works best, but a grill pan on the stovetop is a great alternative.
Bamboo Skewers: Soaked in water to prevent burning; metal skewers are reusable and eco-friendly.
Medium Bowl: For mixing the marinade.
Whisk: To combine marinade ingredients smoothly.
Meat Thermometer: Ensures chicken is cooked to a safe temperature.
Variations
Vegetable Skewers: Add bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes for a colorful and nutritious twist.
Spicy Yakitori: Incorporate sriracha or chili paste into the marinade for a fiery kick.
Teriyaki Style: Substitute the marinade with a teriyaki sauce for a sweeter flavor profile.
Herb-Infused: Mix in fresh herbs like cilantro or basil for a refreshing taste.
Gluten-Free Option: Use tamari instead of soy sauce to keep it gluten-free without sacrificing flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Steamed Rice: Serve with fluffy jasmine or sticky rice to soak up the delicious marinade.
Grilled Vegetables: Pair with seasonal veggies like zucchini or asparagus for a colorful plate.
Cold Sake: Enjoy with a chilled glass of sake or a light beer for a refreshing complement.
Presentation: Arrange skewers on a wooden board, garnished with lime wedges and fresh herbs for a stunning display.
FAQs about Grilled Chicken Yakitori Skewers
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs for yakitori skewers?
Absolutely! While chicken thighs are juicier, chicken breasts can work too. Just be careful not to overcook them, as they can dry out quickly.
What can I substitute for mirin in the marinade?
If you don’t have mirin, sweet rice wine is a great alternative. You can also mix equal parts of white wine and sugar for a similar effect.
How do I store leftover grilled chicken yakitori skewers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat them in the oven or on the grill to maintain that delicious flavor.
Can I make the marinade ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the marinade a day in advance. Just keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to marinate the chicken.
What sides pair well with grilled chicken yakitori skewers?
These skewers go wonderfully with steamed rice, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad. They’re versatile enough to complement many dishes!
Final Thoughts
Grilled Chicken Yakitori Skewers are more than just a meal; they’re a celebration of flavor and togetherness. Each bite transports you to a bustling Japanese street market, where the aroma of grilled chicken fills the air. The joy of sharing these skewers with friends and family is unmatched. Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or a novice, this recipe is approachable and rewarding. So fire up that grill, gather your loved ones, and enjoy the deliciousness that comes from these skewers. Trust me, they’ll leave you craving more and dreaming of your next grilling adventure!
Grilled Chicken Yakitori Skewers are a flavorful and easy-to-make dish, perfect for grilling enthusiasts and a great addition to any meal.
Ingredients
Scale
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons mirin (or substitute with sweet rice wine)
2 tablespoons sake (or substitute with dry white wine)
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1/2 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
1/2 teaspoon minced garlic
Green onions, cut into 2-inch pieces (for garnish)
Bamboo skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes)
Instructions
In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, mirin, sake, brown sugar, sesame oil, ginger, and garlic until the sugar is dissolved.
Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the soaked bamboo skewers, leaving a little space between each piece.
Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.
Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a couple of minutes.
Garnish with green onion pieces before serving.
Notes
For added flavor, you can include bell peppers or mushrooms on the skewers along with the chicken.
If you prefer a spicier kick, brush the skewers with a little sriracha or chili paste before grilling.
