The Best Japanese Chicken Yakitori Recipe

July 15, 2025Maria

Introduction To The Best Japanese Chicken Yakitori

Japanese chicken yakitori is a beloved street food and restaurant favorite that embodies simplicity and flavor in every juicy, charred bite. These tender grilled chicken skewers, brushed with a savory-sweet tare sauce, capture the essence of Japanese grilling tradition and comfort food. Perfect as an appetizer, snack, or main course, yakitori is incredibly versatile and easy to prepare at home, allowing you to bring authentic Japanese flavors straight to your kitchen or backyard grill. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or new to Japanese cuisine, this recipe is designed to deliver tender, smoky, and perfectly sauced chicken skewers with every cook. The combination of juicy chicken, caramelized tare glaze, and the satisfying char from grilling makes this dish unforgettable.

Why Is This Recipe So Popular?

Yakitori’s popularity stems from its incredible flavor simplicity and versatility. Traditionally enjoyed with cold beer or sake, these grilled skewers have become a staple at festivals, izakayas (Japanese pubs), and street stalls. The balanced combination of salty, sweet, and umami flavors in the tare sauce enhances the natural juiciness of the chicken, while grilling imparts a smoky aroma that’s simply addictive. The bite-sized portions make it perfect for sharing and pairing with other dishes. Furthermore, the recipe’s accessibility and quick cooking time appeal to home cooks looking to explore Japanese cuisine without complexity.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

✅ Authentic Tare Sauce – A perfect blend of soy sauce, mirin, sake, and sugar that caramelizes beautifully
✅ Tender, Juicy Chicken – Achieved by using boneless chicken thighs or breasts
✅ Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor – No exotic ingredients needed; easy pantry staples shine
✅ Quick and Easy Prep – Ready in under an hour including marinating and grilling
✅ Versatile Serving Options – Great for appetizers, snacks, or main meals with rice

Ingredients:

These ingredients come together to create the quintessential Japanese yakitori experience:

🍗 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skin-on chicken thighs (or breasts), cut into 1-inch pieces
🥢 8-10 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
🧄 2 cloves garlic, minced
🍚 1/4 cup soy sauce
🥄 1/4 cup mirin (sweet rice wine)
🥄 1/4 cup sake
🥄 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
🧅 2 green onions, cut into 1-inch pieces (optional)
🌿 Toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)
🌿 Shichimi togarashi (Japanese seven-spice) for optional heat

Preparation:

Step 1: Prepare the Tare Sauce 🍶

In a small saucepan, combine soy sauce, mirin, sake, sugar, and minced garlic. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally until sugar dissolves. Lower heat and simmer gently for 10-15 minutes, or until sauce slightly thickens and becomes glossy. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken and Skewers 🍗

Cut the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces, about 1-inch cubes. If using bamboo skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning during grilling.

Step 3: Assemble the Skewers 🍢

Thread the chicken pieces onto skewers, alternating with green onion pieces if desired, for added flavor and color.

Step 4: Marinate the Chicken Skewers 🥢

Brush each skewer generously with the prepared tare sauce. Let them marinate for 15-30 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Step 5: Preheat the Grill and Cook the Yakitori 🔥

Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Oil the grates lightly. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, basting occasionally with more tare sauce. Cook until chicken is cooked through and has a slight char.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish 🍢

Arrange the yakitori skewers on a serving platter. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and shichimi togarashi if using for an extra kick. Serve immediately alongside steamed rice or your favorite Japanese side dishes.

Variation:

Make this yakitori your own with these tasty twists:

Negima Yakitori: Alternate chicken pieces with scallions or leeks for a classic combination.
Tsukune (Chicken Meatballs): Ground chicken mixed with tare sauce, formed into meatballs on skewers.
Miso Yakitori: Brush skewers with a miso-based glaze for a rich umami flavor.
Spicy Yakitori: Add chili flakes or drizzle with spicy mayo for heat lovers.
Vegetable Yakitori: Include shiitake mushrooms, bell peppers, or asparagus between chicken pieces.

COOKING Note:

To nail the perfect yakitori:

Soak skewers thoroughly to prevent burning.
Use skin-on chicken for extra juiciness and flavor.
Keep an eye on the grill to avoid flare-ups.
Baste frequently with tare sauce to build layers of flavor and glaze.
Remove from grill just as chicken reaches internal temperature of 165°F to avoid drying out.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve your yakitori with:

🍚 Steamed Japanese short-grain rice or sushi rice
🥒 Pickled cucumbers or Japanese pickles (tsukemono)
🍵 A bowl of miso soup for a complete meal
🥗 A light seaweed salad or shredded cabbage salad
🍶 Cold sake or chilled Japanese beer for authentic pairing

Tips:

Marinate the skewers briefly; too long can make chicken too salty.
Grill on medium heat for even cooking without burning.
Use a grill pan if outdoor grilling isn’t an option.
Experiment with different parts of the chicken like wings or drumettes.
Keep leftovers refrigerated and reheat gently to maintain moisture.

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Total Time: 30-40 minutes

Nutritional Information (Per Serving Approximate):

Calories: 320
Protein: 35g
Fat: 15g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Sugar: 8g
Sodium: 900mg

FAQs:

What cut of chicken is best for yakitori?

Boneless, skin-on chicken thighs are preferred for juiciness, but breasts work if trimmed well.

Can I make tare sauce ahead of time?

Yes, tare sauce keeps well refrigerated for up to one week.

Can yakitori be cooked indoors?

Yes, use a grill pan or broiler for great results.

What is shichimi togarashi?

It’s a Japanese seven-spice blend adding heat and complexity.

How do I prevent skewers from burning?

Soak skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling and watch flame carefully.

Conclusion:

The best Japanese chicken yakitori brings together juicy, tender chicken grilled to perfection and coated with a rich, savory-sweet tare sauce that’s bursting with authentic flavor. This recipe is simple yet impressively delicious, making it perfect for a quick dinner or entertaining guests with a taste of Japan’s beloved street food. With minimal ingredients and easy steps, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality yakitori experience at home anytime. Serve with traditional sides and enjoy the smoky, caramelized goodness that only yakitori can deliver. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this authentic Japanese favorite!