A classic Japanese street food, these grilled chicken skewers are coated in a savory-sweet tare sauce, perfect for a delicious homemade meal.
Perfect Yakitori at Home
A classic Japanese street food, these grilled chicken skewers are coated in a savory-sweet tare sauce, perfect for a delicious homemade meal.
Ingredients
- 500 g boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup mirin
- 2 tablespoons sake
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon ginger grated (optional
- 12 bamboo skewers soaked in water for 30 minutes
Instructions
- Prepare the Tare Sauce: In a small saucepan, combine soy sauce, mirin, sake, and sugar. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce slightly thickens to a glaze consistency. If using, add grated ginger during the last 5 minutes. Set aside.
- Prepare the Chicken Skewers: Thread the chicken pieces onto the soaked bamboo skewers, ensuring not to overcrowd them. Aim for 3-4 pieces per skewer.
- Preheat Grill: Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Lightly brush the grill grates or pan with oil to prevent sticking.
- Grill Yakitori: Place the skewers on the preheated grill. Grill for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and nearly cooked through.
- Glaze with Tare: During the last few minutes of grilling, brush the yakitori generously with the prepared tare sauce several times, allowing it to caramelize and form a beautiful, glossy coating. Continue turning until all sides are glazed and the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature 165°F/74°C).
- Serve: Serve the hot yakitori immediately with steamed rice or as an appetizer. You can also offer extra tare sauce on the side for dipping.
Notes
Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for the best flavor and tenderness. For variations, try grilling with different vegetables like bell peppers or green onions, or even using different cuts of chicken like breast or wings. Serve with a sprinkle of shichimi togarashi for a spicy kick.
