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Irresistible Japanese Chicken Yakitori Skewers for Your BBQ

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Experience the savory, tender taste of Japanese Chicken Yakitori with these easy-to-make skewers. Perfect for any BBQ or gathering, they’re sure to impress with their bold flavors and juicy texture.

  • Total Time: 32 minutes
  • Yield: 4 skewers (approximately 1 skewer per person)

Ingredients

1/2 cup Soy Sauce

1/4 cup Water

1/4 cup Mirin

1 tablespoon Brown Sugar (Honey or agave syrup can be used as substitutes)

1 tablespoon Vinegar (Rice vinegar is the best choice)

2 cloves Minced Garlic (Garlic powder can be used if fresh isn’t available)

1 teaspoon Ginger (Ground ginger can work but use sparingly)

1 teaspoon Ground Pepper (Adjust to your taste)

1 pound Chicken (thigh or breast, depending on your preference)

Wooden skewers (Soak in water to prevent burning)

Instructions

  1. Soak wooden skewers in water for 10-20 minutes to prevent burning during grilling.
  2. In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, water, mirin, brown sugar, and vinegar until the sugar dissolves.
  3. In a separate bowl, mix minced garlic, ginger, and ground pepper. Add 1/4 cup of the marinade to the spice mixture and toss in the chicken. Let it marinate for at least 10 minutes.
  4. In a saucepan, bring the remaining marinade to a boil. Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of the sauce, then stir it into the boiling mixture until it thickens.
  5. Thread the marinated chicken onto the soaked skewers.
  6. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the skewers for 8-12 minutes, turning occasionally and basting with the thickened marinade. Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  7. Once the chicken is cooked through and caramelized on the outside, remove from the grill and serve immediately.

Notes

Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with tofu or mushrooms for a vegetarian version of this recipe. Marinate and grill the same way for a smoky, savory bite.

Spicy Yakitori: Add some chili flakes or hot sauce to the marinade for a spicy kick.

Different Meats: You can also use beef for these skewers. Adjust the cooking time based on the type of meat you choose.

Sweet Variations: Experiment with other sweeteners like maple syrup or coconut sugar to alter the flavor profile of the marinade.

  • Author: Chloe Mae
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12 minutes
  • Category: BBQ
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: Japanese

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 skewer
  • Calories: 250
  • Sugar: 7g
  • Sodium: 850mg
  • Fat: 8g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 10g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg