Yakitori (Japanese Grilled Chicken Skewers with Teriyaki Sauce)

Yakitori is grilled chicken pieces on skewers, coated in a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce. It’s quick to prepare and recommended for anyone who wants a simple, flavorful chicken dish without complicated steps. You can serve them during weeknight dinners, casual gatherings, or even as a party appetizer. Anyone who loves grilled meat, sweet-savory flavors, or interactive finger foods will be instantly hooked on this dish.

What is Yakitori?

Yakitori, which literally means "grilled bird," is a traditional Japanese dish consisting of bite-sized chicken pieces skewered and cooked over a flame or in a pan. Often seasoned with salt or brushed with a sweet soy-based sauce, yakitori has been a staple of Japanese street food culture since the early 20th century. It’s commonly enjoyed in izakayas (Japanese pubs) alongside cold drinks, but it has gained worldwide fame for its crave-worthy flavor.

Yakitori can include not just chicken meat, but also organs like liver or skin, though the classic version sticks to the breast or thigh meat.

Pro Tips for the Best Yakitori

• Use chicken thighs instead of breast if you want extra juiciness, because thighs stay tender and absorb the sauce beautifully.
• Pre-soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent them from burning while cooking.
• Cook over medium heat and cover with a lid to ensure the chicken cooks through without drying out.
• Serve immediately after cooking for the best texture, as yakitori loses its charm if left to sit too long.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken breast instead of thigh for yakitori?

Yes, chicken breast can be used, but it’s leaner and can dry out faster than thigh meat. To prevent dryness, marinate it well and avoid overcooking.

Can I make yakitori without sake?

You can substitute sake with a light white wine or water mixed with a teaspoon of sugar to maintain sweetness. However, sake adds a subtle umami depth that’s characteristic of traditional yakitori.

How sticky should the teriyaki sauce be?

The sauce should be thick enough to coat the chicken but not overly syrupy. Cook it slowly on the skewer for a few minutes until the chicken absorbs the flavor.

Can I grill yakitori instead of using a pan?

Yes, grilling over medium heat adds a smoky flavor that’s very authentic. Just make sure to brush with sauce during the last few minutes to prevent burning.

How to Store Yakitori

Cooked skewers can last in the fridge for up to 2 days and reheat in a pan over low heat to avoid drying out the chicken. Yakitori can also be frozen, but it’s best to do so before adding the sauce. Place skewered raw or lightly cooked chicken in a freezer-safe container, then thaw and cook fully with sauce when ready. Once cooked with sauce, freezing is not recommended as the texture may change.

How to Make Yakitori

Step 1

Step 1

Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and place in a bowl. Add lemon juice, salt, and pepper, then mix well to coat evenly.

Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and place in a bowl. Add lemon juice, salt, and pepper, then mix well to coat evenly.

Step 2

Step 2

Take wooden skewers and thread 7-8 chicken pieces onto each stick.

Take wooden skewers and thread 7-8 chicken pieces onto each stick.

Step 3

Step 3

In a small bowl, combine sake, soy sauce, and sugar, mixing until the sugar dissolves.

In a small bowl, combine sake, soy sauce, and sugar, mixing until the sugar dissolves.

Step 4

Step 4

Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Place the skewers in the pan, brown them on both sides, cover with a lid, and cook for about 10 minutes.

Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Place the skewers in the pan, brown them on both sides, cover with a lid, and cook for about 10 minutes.

Step 5

Step 5

Pour the prepared sauce over the skewers and continue cooking, turning occasionally, until the glaze becomes sticky.

Pour the prepared sauce over the skewers and continue cooking, turning occasionally, until the glaze becomes sticky.

Step 6

Step 6

Transfer the yakitori to a serving dish and enjoy while hot.

Transfer the yakitori to a serving dish and enjoy while hot.