Chicken Yakitori Skewers with Sweet-Savory Japanese Marinade
Easy Japanese Chicken Yakitori Skewers made with juicy chicken thighs glazed in a sweet-savory tare sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or grilling with the family.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
Scale
1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs
½ cup soy sauce
¼ cup mirin
¼ cup sake
2 tbsp brown sugar
1 tsp grated garlic (optional)
1 tsp grated ginger (optional)
2 green onions, cut into 2-inch pieces
Neutral oil, for brushing
Wooden or metal skewers
Instructions
- In a small saucepan, combine soy sauce, mirin, sake, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger. Simmer 10–12 minutes until slightly thickened. Set aside.
- Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces. Thread onto skewers, alternating with green onions.
- Preheat grill or broiler. Lightly oil the grates or rack.
- Grill skewers for 3–4 minutes per side, until chicken is nearly cooked through.
- Brush with sauce and cook 1–2 more minutes per side, until caramelized.
- Let rest 5 minutes before serving. Serve with extra sauce if desired.
Notes
Soak wooden skewers in water 30 minutes before use to prevent burning. Tare sauce can be doubled and stored in the fridge for up to 1 week.