Yakitori with Zesty Teriyaki Glaze – Japanese Grilled Chicken Skewers with a Tangy Twist

Yakitori with Zesty Teriyaki Glaze – Japanese Grilled Chicken Skewers with a Tangy Twist

Yakitori is a popular Japanese dish consisting of grilled chicken skewers that are perfect for a savory snack or main course. This particular recipe includes a zesty teriyaki glaze that adds a delicious tangy flavor to the tender chicken, making it a mouth-watering treat for all.

Ingredients:
1. Chicken Thighs: 500 grams, boneless and skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces
2. Scallions: 3–4, cut into 1-inch pieces
3. Soy Sauce: 1/2 cup
4. Mirin: 1/4 cup
5. Sake: 1/4 cup
6. Brown Sugar: 2 tablespoons
7. Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
8. Ginger: 1 tablespoon, grated
9. Lemon Juice: 1 tablespoon, for zest
10. Bamboo Skewers: Soaked in water for 30 minutes
11. Sesame Seeds: For garnish
12. Chopped Green Onions: For garnish

For the Teriyaki Glaze:
1. Soy Sauce: 1/4 cup
2. Mirin: 2 tablespoons
3. Sake: 2 tablespoons
4. Brown Sugar: 1 tablespoon
5. Lemon Juice: 1 teaspoon
6. Cornstarch: 1 teaspoon, dissolved in 2 teaspoons water

Instructions:

1. Marinate the Chicken:
– In a large bowl, combine soy sauce, mirin, sake, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and lemon juice. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.
– Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and mix well to ensure they are fully coated. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight for better flavor.

2. Prepare the Teriyaki Glaze:
– In a small saucepan, combine the soy sauce, mirin, sake, brown sugar, and lemon juice. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring until the sugar is dissolved.
– Reduce the heat and add the cornstarch mixture, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens. Set aside to cool.

3. Skewer the Chicken and Scallions:
– Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
– Thread the marinated chicken pieces and scallion pieces onto the soaked bamboo skewers, alternating between chicken and scallion. Leave a little space at both ends of the skewers.

4. Grill the Yakitori:
– Place the skewers on the preheated grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.
– During the last few minutes of grilling, brush the chicken skewers with the prepared teriyaki glaze to enhance the flavor.

5. Serve:
– Transfer the grilled yakitori to a serving platter.
– Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for added flavor and presentation.

Enjoy these delicious Yakitori with Zesty Teriyaki Glaze as a delightful appetizer or a satisfying main course accompanied by steamed rice or a fresh salad.