Description
Tender, juicy chicken skewers glazed with an irresistible sweet and savory tare, grilled to perfection. This recipe brings authentic Japanese flavors to your home kitchen with ease.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1.5 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 4 scallions, cut into 1-inch pieces (optional, for skewering)
- 1/2 cup (120ml) Japanese soy sauce
- 1/2 cup (120ml) mirin
- 1/4 cup (60ml) sake (or dry white wine alternative)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- Wooden or metal skewers (if wooden, pre-soak for 30 min)
Instructions
- 1. Prepare Chicken: Cut chicken thighs into uniform 1-inch cubes. Thread chicken pieces and scallion segments onto skewers, alternating as desired.
- 2. Make Yakitori Tare: 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 5-7 minutes until slightly thickened.
- 3. Cook Yakitori (Grill/Broil/Pan): Heat grill to medium-high (or preheat broiler/pan with oil). Place skewers on hot surface. Cook 2-3 minutes per side.
- 4. Baste and Finish: Begin basting generously with the tare. Continue cooking, turning and basting every 1-2 minutes, until chicken is cooked through and beautifully glazed (10-15 minutes total).
- 5. Rest and Serve: Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with sesame seeds or extra scallions, and serve hot.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes