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Japanese Chicken Yakitori

Savory Japanese Chicken Yakitori with Homemade Tare Sauce

Experience the flavors of Japan with this juicy Japanese Chicken Yakitori recipe featuring a delicious homemade tare sauce.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 skewers
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Japanese
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken Skewers
  • 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs The best choice for juiciness and tenderness when grilled.
  • 2 green onions Adds a fresh crunch; substitute with scallions if needed.
  • 8 bamboo skewers, soaked in water Prevents burning during grilling.
For the Tare Sauce
  • 0.5 cup soy sauce Provides a rich umami flavor; opt for low-sodium for a healthier alternative.
  • 0.5 cup mirin Adds a delicious sweetness; rice vinegar and sugar can substitute in a pinch.
  • 0.25 cup sake Enhances depth; dry sherry can act as a stand-in if necessary.
  • 0.25 cup brown sugar Contributes to the caramelization; you can use honey instead if desired.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced Infuses warmth into the sauce; garlic powder is a quick substitute if needed.
  • 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated Adds a zesty kick; ground ginger works if fresh is unavailable.

Equipment

  • Grill
  • Medium saucepan
  • Bamboo Skewers

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Soak the 8 bamboo skewers in water for at least 30 minutes.
  2. Chop 2 lbs of boneless skinless chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces and cut the green onions into 1-inch pieces. Thread them onto the soaked skewers.
  3. In a medium saucepan, combine soy sauce, mirin, sake, brown sugar, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Heat on medium until it simmers, about 8-10 minutes.
  4. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
  5. Place the skewers on the hot grill, cooking for about 3-4 minutes on each side, brushing with tare sauce.
  6. Check for doneness, ensuring the chicken is golden and cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F.
  7. Remove the skewers from the grill and brush with tare sauce again before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1skewerCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 12gProtein: 20gFat: 13gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 300mgSugar: 6gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 1mg

Notes

For best results, soak skewers for at least 30 minutes and avoid overcrowding on the grill.

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