Chicken Yakitori is a beloved Japanese dish that offers a delightful fusion of flavors and textures. This recipe features skewers of tender, marinated chicken, grilled to perfection and brushed with a savory and slightly sweet glaze. Often enjoyed as a popular street food in Japan, Chicken Yakitori has a long history rooted in Japanese culinary traditions. The combination of succulent chicken and the delicious umami-rich glaze makes this dish a wonderful addition to any meal, whether you’re looking for a flavorful appetizer or a main course that showcases the beauty of Japanese grilling techniques. In this detailed recipe, we’ll delve into the history of Chicken Yakitori and guide you through the step-by-step process of creating this mouthwatering dish.

The origins of Yakitori can be traced back to ancient Japan, where the technique of skewering and grilling meats over an open flame was a common way of preparing food. The term “yakitori” translates to “grilled chicken,” and over the centuries, it has become synonymous with a popular style of Japanese skewered cuisine.

Traditionally, Yakitori was a simple and humble dish, often enjoyed by workers and locals in small establishments called “yakitori-ya.” These establishments specialized in grilling skewers of various meats, including chicken, and serving them alongside drinks. Yakitori became a staple of Japanese street food culture and later gained popularity in izakayas (Japanese pubs), where it was enjoyed as a tasty accompaniment to drinks.

The simplicity of Yakitori preparation and the emphasis on quality ingredients and skilled grilling techniques have made this dish a classic that continues to be cherished by people of all ages in Japan and around the world.

SERVES: 4

PREP TIME: 5 MINUTES

COOKING TIME: 15 MINUTES

INGREDIENTS 

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup sake (Japanese rice wine)
• 2 tablespoons mirin (Japanese sweet rice wine)
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for grilling)
• 1 green onion, chopped (for garnish)
• Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes (to prevent burning)

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. In a bowl, combine the soy sauce, sake, mirin, and granulated sugar to create the Yakitori marinade.
2. Place the chicken thigh pieces in the marinade, ensuring they are evenly coated. Cover the bowl and let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator, allowing the flavors to infuse.
3. Preheat your grill or broiler to medium-high heat.
4. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the soaked wooden skewers. Make sure to thread them securely, so they don’t slide off during grilling.
5. Brush the grill grates or broiler pan with vegetable oil to prevent sticking.
6. Place the skewers on the grill or under the broiler, and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is fully cooked and has a nice, slightly charred exterior.
7. While grilling, use a brush to apply some of the reserved marinade to the chicken skewers, creating a flavorful glaze.
8. Continue grilling and glazing the chicken until it’s cooked through and has a beautiful caramelized finish.
9. Remove the Chicken Yakitori skewers from the grill or broiler, and let them rest for a few minutes.
10. Arrange the Chicken Yakitori skewers on a serving platter, garnish with chopped green onions for a fresh burst of flavor, and serve them hot.
11. Consider serving the Chicken Yakitori with steamed rice and a side of pickled vegetables to create a complete and delicious meal.

CONCLUSION:

• Enjoy the authentic flavors of Chicken Yakitori, a dish that pays homage to the rich traditions of Japanese cuisine while satisfying your taste buds with its irresistible combination of smoky, grilled goodness and the delectable glaze. Whether you’re preparing this recipe for a special occasion or simply craving a taste of Japan, Chicken Yakitori is sure to become a new favorite in your culinary repertoire.