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Yakitori: Grilled Japanese Chicken Skewers with Savory Tare Sauce Recipe

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4.2 from 58 reviews

  • Author: Amelia
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Diet: Dairy-Free

Description

Yakitori is a classic Japanese dish featuring tender, boneless chicken thighs skewered and grilled to perfection, then glazed with a savory-sweet tare sauce made from soy sauce, mirin, sake, and brown sugar. This dish delivers a delightful balance of smoky char and rich umami flavors, making it an ideal appetizer, party dish, or main course served alongside steamed rice or fresh vegetables.

Ingredients

For the Yakitori:

  • 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 4 green onions
  • 1 tablespoon neutral oil
  • Bamboo skewers, soaked in water for 20–30 minutes

For the Tare Sauce:

  • 1/2 cup soy sauce
  • 1/2 cup mirin
  • 1/4 cup sake
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 garlic clove, lightly crushed
  • 1-inch piece fresh ginger, sliced

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking and easy eating.
  2. Slice the Green Onions: Cut the green onions into segments about 1 1/2 inches long, perfect for alternating on the skewers with chicken.
  3. Skewer the Ingredients: Thread the chicken and green onion pieces alternately onto the soaked bamboo skewers, taking care not to overcrowd.
  4. Make the Tare Sauce: In a small saucepan, combine soy sauce, mirin, sake, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 8 to 10 minutes until slightly thickened. Remove the garlic and ginger before using.
  5. Preheat the Grill: Heat a grill or grill pan to medium-high and lightly oil the surface to prevent sticking.
  6. Grill the Skewers: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 10 to 12 minutes, turning frequently to achieve a uniform char and ensure chicken cooks through.
  7. Glaze with Tare Sauce: Brush the skewers generously with tare sauce and continue grilling for an additional 1 to 2 minutes, turning and applying more sauce as needed to caramelize without burning.
  8. Serve: Serve the yakitori hot with extra tare sauce on the side, accompanied by steamed rice or pickled vegetables for a complete meal.

Notes

  • Chicken thighs are preferred for yakitori because they remain juicy and tender during grilling.
  • To achieve authentic flavor, allow the tare sauce to caramelize slightly on the chicken without burning, developing a rich glaze.
  • The tare sauce can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated to save time on the day of cooking.
  • Serve the yakitori with steamed rice, pickled vegetables, or a simple cucumber salad for a balanced meal.
  • Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer, Main Course, Dinner
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: Japanese

Find it online: https://justsosweet.com/yakitori-grilled-japanese-chicken-skewers-with-savory-tare-sauce-recipe/