Bring the authentic flavors of Japan to your table with these tender and savory Chicken Yakitori Skewers. Made with juicy, bite-sized pieces of boneless chicken thighs and scallions, these skewers are glazed with a rich, umami-packed tare sauce crafted from soy sauce, sake, mirin, garlic, and ginger. Grilled to perfection until lightly charred and caramelized, this dish combines a smoky aroma with a luscious sweet and savory finish. Whether you're hosting a backyard barbecue or craving an easy weeknight dinner, these Japanese-style skewers are a crowd-pleasing treat that's perfect as an appetizer or main course. Best served hot with extra tare sauce for dipping, they're a true taste of classic yakitori!
If using bamboo skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning during cooking.
Trim any excess fat from the chicken thighs and cut them into bite-sized pieces, about 1.5-inch cubes.
Cut the scallions into 1.5-inch pieces, discarding the roots and any wilted parts.
In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the soy sauce, sake, mirin, sugar, garlic, and ginger. Stir until the sugar dissolves and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
Reduce the heat to low and simmer the sauce for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened. Remove from the heat and allow it to cool. This tare sauce will be used for basting and dipping.
Thread the chicken and scallion pieces alternately onto the skewers, leaving a small gap between each piece to ensure even cooking.
Preheat a grill or broiler to medium-high heat. Brush the grates or broiler pan lightly with vegetable oil to prevent sticking.
Place the skewers on the grill or broiler and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, basting with the prepared tare sauce after the first turn. Continue to baste and turn every 2-3 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and slightly charred, about 12-15 minutes total.
Remove the skewers from the heat and give them one final brush with the tare sauce before serving.
Serve the skewers hot with any remaining tare sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy!
Calories |
1590 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 68.6 g | 88% | |
| Saturated Fat | 16.9 g | 84% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 8.6 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 545 mg | 182% | |
| Sodium | 5094 mg | 221% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 71.3 g | 26% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.6 g | 6% | |
| Total Sugars | 59.0 g | ||
| Protein | 142.8 g | 286% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 118 mg | 9% | |
| Iron | 6.8 mg | 38% | |
| Potassium | 1788 mg | 38% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.