Yakitori chicken, a beloved Japanese dish, is more than just grilled chicken skewers; it is Japanese harmony of flavours, simplicity, and cultural tradition. The word “yakitori” translates to “grilled bird,” but the experience it offers goes far beyond its literal meaning. In Japan each skewer, meticulously prepared and seasoned, tells a story of balance and artistry that has been perfected over centuries.
At its core, yakitori is a celebration of pure, uncomplicated flavours. The chicken is marinated in a blend of soy sauce, sweetener, honey, and rice wine, a combination that creates a delicate balance of umami, sweetness, and subtle acidity. This marinade doesn’t just flavour the meat; it tenderises it, ensuring every bite is succulent. The simplicity of the marinade highlights the quality of the ingredients, which is a cornerstone of Japanese cuisine.
Spring onions accompany the chicken on the skewers, adding a refreshing contrast with their mild sharpness. As the skewers sizzle on the grill, the aroma of caramelising honey and soy sauce wafts through the air, evoking an irresistible sense of anticipation. The turning and brushing of the skewers with the remaining marinade is not just a cooking step but a ritual, ensuring each piece is evenly coated and infused with flavour.
What makes yakitori so special is its versatility. It can be a quick weekday meal or the star of a casual gathering. Served with a sprinkle of freshly sliced spring onions or a crisp side salad, it caters to modern health-conscious palates without compromising on taste.
In Japan, yakitori is traditionally enjoyed in small, lively izakayas, where the skewers are paired with cold beer or sake. The communal experience of eating yakitori—where diners savour the skewers straight off the grill—captures the essence of Japanese dining: sharing, connecting, and appreciating the moment.
Preparing yakitori chicken at home allows you to bring a slice of this tradition into your kitchen. The simple ingredients and straightforward steps belie the depth of flavour and satisfaction they deliver. Whether you’re introducing it to your family or sharing it with friends, yakitori chicken is a dish that bridges cultures and brings people together, one skewer at a time.
Yakitori Chicken
Yakitori chicken is a traditional Japanese dish featuring skewered chicken marinated in a savoury-sweet blend of soy sauce, honey, and rice wine, then grilled to perfection. Paired with spring onions, it delivers a balance of smoky, umami-rich flavours and freshness. Often enjoyed in communal settings, it embodies the essence of Japanese dining: simplicity, sharing, and connection.
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Servings: 4 People
Calories: 199kcal
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp soy sauce reduced-salt
- 1 tsp sweetener sugar free
- 1/2 tsp runny honey
- 1 tsp rice wine
- 3 large chicken thighs sliced boneless, skinless
- 2 large spring onions sliced
Instructions
- In a small pan, mix together the soy sauce, sweetener, honey, rice wine and 1tbsp water. Heat gently to dissolve the sugar.
- Remove from the heat, cool then add the chicken and marinate for 30 minutes. Soak 4 wooden skewers in water for 15 minutes, to stop them burning.3 large chicken thighs
- Serve with the sliced spring onions or a side salad.2 large spring onions
Notes
Nutrition
Calories: 199kcal | Carbohydrates: 3g | Protein: 15g | Fat: 14g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 6g | Trans Fat: 0.1g | Cholesterol: 83mg | Sodium: 570mg | Potassium: 228mg | Fiber: 0.4g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 191IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 18mg | Iron: 1mg
11 comments
A perfect mid week meal. Fast, inexpensive and very tasty.
The marinade is spot-on, creating a perfect blend of savoury and sweet, while grilling gives it that authentic, smoky flavour.
It’s simple to make but tastes so good.
Yakitori chicken is the perfect combination of smoky, sweet, and savoury! The marinade adds so much depth to the tender chicken, and the spring onions are a refreshing touch.
The marinade makes the chicken incredibly tender, and grilling enhances its flavour beautifully.
t’s simple yet utterly satisfying, a dish I could eat every week
Absolutely delicious.
The marinade gives a rich umami kick without being overpowering, and the grilled spring onions are a great touch.
The charred, caramelised edges are irresistible, and the marinade strikes the perfect balance of flavours. It’s easy to prepare yet feels so gourmet.
The simplicity of Yakitori chicken is what makes it shine.
The chicken is juicy and flavourful, and grilling it adds an incredible smoky aroma. I served it with a crisp salad, and my friends couldn’t stop raving about it!