Name: Yakitori Chicken Skewers Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: Japanese
Ingredients: 1/2 cup soy sauce; 1/4 cup mirin (sweet rice wine); 1/4 cup sake; 2 tablespoons sugar; 1 clove garlic, minced (optional); 1 teaspoon grated ginger (optional); 2 pounds boneless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces; 4-6 metal or bamboo skewers (if bamboo, soaked in water for 30 minutes); Green onions, sliced for garnish; Steamed white rice, for serving

Jump to Recipe· 3.8 from 4 reviews

There is something irresistibly comforting about a perfectly grilled chicken skewer glazed with a savory and slightly sweet sauce, which makes the Yakitori Chicken Skewers Recipe a must-try for any lover of flavorful, easy-to-make dishes. This recipe brings the authentic taste of Japanese street food right to your backyard grill or stovetop, combining tender boneless chicken thighs with a glossy, homemade yakitori sauce that clings deliciously to every piece. It’s simple, quick, and incredibly satisfying, perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings with friends.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A collage of four images shows the process of making grilled chicken skewers. The top left image has a pot with a dark brown sauce with sesame seeds and a metal whisk inside it, the sauce has a smooth, shiny texture. The top right image shows raw chicken pieces in a clear glass bowl covered in the sticky dark brown sauce with glossy and rich coating, and a white spatula resting inside the bowl. The bottom left image displays four metal skewers lined up on a white marbled surface, with chicken pieces evenly threaded and covered in the same dark brown sauce, showing a shiny, tender texture. The bottom right image features the skewers on a black grill, chicken cooking with char marks and golden glaze, while a wooden-handled brush with light brown bristles, held by a woman's hand, is applying the sauce on the chicken. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to nailing this Yakitori Chicken Skewers Recipe. Each component is straightforward but essential, contributing to the rich, balanced flavors and that beautiful glossy finish that makes yakitori so special.

Yakitori sauce: This flavorful glaze, traditionally made with soy sauce, mirin, sake, and sugar, gives the chicken its signature sweet-savory shine.
Boneless chicken thighs: Juicy and tender, these provide the perfect texture and absorb the sauce beautifully when cut into 1-inch pieces.
Metal or bamboo skewers: Essential for grilling, bamboo skewers should be soaked to prevent burning, while metal ones hold up well without extra prep.
Green onions: These add a fresh, mild onion flavor and a vibrant green pop when used as a garnish.

How to Make Yakitori Chicken Skewers Recipe

Step 1: Prepare and Marinate the Chicken

Start by preparing your yakitori sauce according to your favorite recipe or a trusted one. Place the bite-sized chicken thigh pieces into a medium bowl, pour in half of the sauce, and toss gently to coat every piece. This quick marination helps infuse the chicken with rich flavors while keeping it moist during cooking.

Step 2: Thread the Chicken onto Skewers

Take your soaked bamboo skewers or metal skewers and thread the chicken pieces evenly. Be careful not to overcrowd the skewers to ensure even cooking. This step is crucial because it allows each piece to get that perfect char and glaze.

Step 3: Grill the Skewers

Heat your grill to medium-high and place the skewers on the grates. Grill for 4 to 6 minutes, then flip the skewers carefully. At this point, baste them generously with the remaining yakitori sauce to build layers of flavor and a beautiful caramelized finish. Continue grilling until the chicken is cooked all the way through and no longer pink inside.

Step 4: Serve Hot and Garnished

Once the skewers are cooked, give them one last brush with the sauce right before removing them from the grill. Serve immediately over steamed white rice and sprinkle with finely chopped green onions for that last touch of freshness and color.

How to Serve Yakitori Chicken Skewers Recipe

A skewer with four shiny grilled chicken pieces, each piece glazed with a dark, sticky sauce and sprinkled with white sesame seeds and green onion slices, is being dipped into a small white bowl filled with thick dark sauce. In the background, a white plate holds a lightly textured beige rice cake with some green garnish on a white marbled surface. A green onion stalk lies beside the bowl. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Green onions are the classic garnish for yakitori, adding a subtle crunch and onion flavor that perfectly complements the saucy chicken. You can also sprinkle toasted sesame seeds or add thinly sliced shishito peppers for an extra zing and textural contrast.

Side Dishes

Yakitori Chicken Skewers are wonderfully versatile when it comes to sides. Apart from traditional steamed rice, pairing them with a light cucumber salad, pickled vegetables, or miso soup makes for a well-rounded meal that balances savory, sweet, and tangy notes.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the skewers on a platter garnished with fresh herbs and lemon wedges for a bright citrus kick. Alternatively, create mini yakitori bowls by combining grilled skewers, rice, and a drizzle of extra sauce in individual dishes, perfect for entertaining.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover Yakitori Chicken Skewers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Properly covered, they keep well for up to three days while maintaining their flavor and juiciness.

Freezing

You can freeze cooked yakitori by placing the skewers in a single layer on a baking sheet to flash-freeze. Once solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll stay good for up to two months, making them a handy ready-to-eat option for busy days.

Reheating

For best results when reheating, gently warm the skewers in an oven or under a broiler to help re-crisp the exterior and refresh the glaze without drying out the chicken. Avoid microwaving if you want to preserve the texture and flavor.

FAQs

What cut of chicken is best for Yakitori Chicken Skewers Recipe?

Boneless chicken thighs are ideal because they stay tender and juicy during grilling, absorbing the sauce beautifully without drying out like breast meat can.

Can I use wooden skewers instead of metal?

Yes, bamboo or wooden skewers are traditional and work great, but be sure to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes beforehand to prevent burning during grilling.

How do I make the yakitori sauce from scratch?

Traditional yakitori sauce is a simple blend of soy sauce, mirin, sake, and sugar simmered until slightly thickened. It’s easy to prepare and essential for authentic flavor.

Can I cook yakitori chicken skewers indoors?

Absolutely! If you don’t have a grill, you can cook the skewers under a broiler or on a grill pan over medium-high heat, turning frequently to get a nice char and glaze.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Definitely. Yakitori Chicken Skewers are great for preparing in advance, as they reheat well and can be enjoyed cold or warm, making them perfect for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

Trying the Yakitori Chicken Skewers Recipe is like inviting a little piece of Japan into your kitchen, complete with deliciously charred chicken and that addictive sticky glaze everyone loves. It’s a simple yet impressive dish that works for any occasion. Once you make it, you’ll be reaching for this recipe again and again, and your friends will be asking for seconds without fail. Give it a go and enjoy every flavorful bite!

Yakitori Chicken Skewers Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need