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Japanese Chicken Yakitori

Savoring Japanese Chicken Yakitori: A Grilling Adventure

Japanese Chicken Yakitori is a cherished dish that brings the warmth of home cooking straight to your table.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Soaking Time 20 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 skewers
Course: Chicken
Cuisine: Japanese
Calories: 200
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Sauce
  • ½ cup Soy Sauce Provides saltiness and depth of flavor; substitute tamari for a gluten-free version.
  • ¼ cup Water Used to dilute the soy sauce and balance flavors; no substitutions needed.
  • ¼ cup Red Wine/Mirin Adds sweetness and complexity; substitute with sake or sherry for a similar taste.
  • 2 tablespoons Brown Sugar Contributes sweetness and caramelization; honey or maple syrup can work as alternatives.
  • 1 tablespoon Vinegar Adds acidity for balance; rice vinegar is ideal while apple cider vinegar can be a substitute.
  • 1 clove Minced Garlic Enhances the sauce with aromatic depth; fresh garlic is preferred, but garlic powder can be used.
  • 1 tablespoon Ginger Adds warmth and zest; ground ginger can substitute fresh if needed.
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Pepper Provides a gentle heat; use white or black pepper based on preference.
  • 1 tablespoon Cornstarch Used to thicken the sauce; arrowroot or tapioca starch can be viable substitutes.
For the Chicken
  • 1 pound Boneless Chicken Thighs The main protein; select for juiciness, or firm tofu and vegetables for a vegetarian option.

Equipment

  • Grill
  • Skewers
  • mixing bowl
  • Saucepan

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Soak your wooden skewers in water for about 15–20 minutes to prevent them from catching fire on the grill.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine the soy sauce, water, red wine/mirin, brown sugar, and vinegar. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, add minced garlic, grated ginger, and ground pepper. Pour in the reserved sauce and mix well. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and add to the marinade. Let marinate for at least 10 minutes.
  4. Transfer the remaining sauce to a saucepan, bring to a gentle boil, and add a cornstarch slurry to thicken.
  5. Thread the marinated chicken onto the soaked skewers. Preheat the grill to medium-high and cook for 8–12 minutes, turning occasionally and basting with the thickened sauce.

Nutrition

Serving: 1skewerCalories: 200kcalCarbohydrates: 8gProtein: 25gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 700mgPotassium: 300mgSugar: 4gVitamin A: 100IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 1mg

Notes

For best results, use medium-high heat to achieve juicy chicken and avoid overcooking. Consider soaking skewers longer for enhanced flavor.

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