There’s something magical about the smoky, savory aroma of Japanese chicken yakitori sizzling over the grill. The first time I tried it was at a tiny izakaya in Tokyo, where skewers of juicy grilled chicken glazed with tare sauce were served hot off the flame. That memory inspired me to bring this dish into my own kitchen, and now it’s one of my go-to easy Japanese recipes for weeknights and gatherings. Whether you’re planning a quick Japanese dinner at home or looking for Asian recipes that wow with minimal fuss, yakitori is a winner every time.
What Makes Yakitori So Special?
The Simplicity of Japanese Dishes
Yakitori proves that great food doesn’t have to be complicated. With just a handful of ingredients chicken, soy, mirin, sake, and sugar you can create a dish that feels authentic and delicious. Like many Japanese dishes, it’s all about balance and technique.
Perfect for Any Japanese Dinner
Whether you’re making a casual weeknight meal or entertaining guests, yakitori fits right in. Pair it with steamed rice, pickled vegetables, or miso soup for a full Japanese dinner that feels restaurant-worthy but approachable at home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp mirin
- 2 tbsp sake
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 2 scallions, cut into 2-inch pieces
- Bamboo skewers, soaked in water 20 minutes
These pantry staples are what make this one of the most easy Japanese recipes to add to your dinner rotation.
How to Make Japanese Chicken Yakitori Step by Step
- Prepare the sauce: Combine soy sauce, mirin, sake, sugar, and sesame oil in a small pan. Simmer 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Skewer the chicken: Thread chicken pieces and scallions onto soaked skewers.
- Grill: Cook skewers over medium-high heat, basting with tare sauce, turning often until chicken is cooked and glossy.
- Serve: Plate hot with extra sauce on the side.
That’s it just four easy steps to one of the most beloved Japanese food traditions.
How to Serve Yakitori
Serve yakitori fresh off the grill with bowls of rice and miso soup for a traditional Japanese dinner. For parties, set out a platter of skewers as finger food it’s one of those Asian recipes that feels both casual and celebratory.
Pro Tips & Variations
- Use chicken thighs for juicier skewers, or swap with chicken breast if you prefer leaner meat.
- Add veggies like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini for colorful skewers.
- For a sweeter glaze, add a touch of honey to the sauce.
- Try serving with Japanese beer or sake for an izakaya-style meal.
These simple twists keep this staple fresh among your go-to dinner recipes.
Storage & Make-Ahead Suggestions
Yakitori tastes best fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven or skillet. You can also prep the sauce and marinate the chicken overnight to make grilling even faster.
FAQs About Yakitori
What’s the difference between yakitori and teriyaki?
Yakitori is grilled skewered chicken basted with tare sauce, while teriyaki is pan-cooked with a thicker glaze.
Can I make yakitori without a grill?
Yes! A broiler or stovetop grill pan works perfectly.
Is yakitori healthy?
Yes especially if paired with vegetables and served with rice as part of balanced Japanese dishes.
Can I use other meats?
Definitely. While traditional yakitori is Japanese chicken, pork or beef skewers also taste fantastic.
Closing Paragraph
Yakitori is proof that the simplest ingredients can become extraordinary when treated with care. With its smoky flavor, glossy glaze, and tender texture, this dish has earned its place among classic Japanese food. Add it to your list of easy Japanese recipes for weeknights, gatherings, or when you just want to bring the flavors of an izakaya to your table.
🎀 Final Thoughts
Cooking doesn’t have to be complicated to be special. With this Japanese chicken yakitori recipe, you’ll always have a go-to dish that delivers flavor, comfort, and tradition. So grab your skewers, fire up the grill, and let this become one of your favorite dinner recipes.
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Japanese Chicken Yakitori – Easy Japanese Dinner Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 8 skewers (4 servings) 1x
Description
Juicy grilled Japanese chicken yakitori skewers glazed with a savory-sweet tare sauce. A classic Japanese dinner recipe that’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor.
Ingredients
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs (cut into bite-sized cubes)
2 tbsp soy sauce
2 tbsp mirin
2 tbsp sake
1 tbsp sugar
1 tsp sesame oil
2 scallions (cut into 2-inch pieces)
Bamboo skewers (soaked in water for 20 minutes)
Instructions
1. In a saucepan, combine soy sauce, mirin, sake, sugar, and sesame oil. Simmer 5 minutes until slightly thickened into tare sauce.
2. Thread chicken and scallion pieces onto soaked skewers.
3. Preheat grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
4. Grill skewers, basting with tare sauce, turning often until chicken is cooked and glossy, about 8–10 minutes.
5. Serve hot with extra tare sauce on the side.
Notes
Chicken thighs are best for juicier skewers, but chicken breast works too.
Add vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini for variety.
Yakitori pairs perfectly with rice, miso soup, or Japanese beer.
Prep sauce and cut chicken ahead of time for quick cooking on busy nights.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Japanese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 skewers
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
