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Grilled Chicken Yakitori-Style Skewers with Ginger-Garlic Glaze

A delightful take on the traditional Japanese yakitori, these grilled chicken skewers are marinated in a ginger-garlic sauce for a flavorful backyard dinner.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Japanese
Calories: 320
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken Marinade
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon mirin or a splash of apple cider vinegar if using an alternative
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 1 pinch salt and pepper to taste
For the Ginger-Garlic Glaze
  • 1/2 cup soy sauce
  • 1/4 cup honey for sweetness
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water to thicken the glaze
To Serve
  • 4 pieces skewers wooden or metal (soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes)
  • 1 bunch green onions, chopped for garnish
  • Optional: steamed rice or fresh salad to balance out the dish

Method
 

Marinate the Chicken
  1. In a large bowl, combine chicken thigh pieces with soy sauce, mirin, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, salt, and pepper. Mix well and let marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.
Prepare the Glaze
  1. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine soy sauce, honey, garlic, ginger, and the cornstarch slurry. Stir continuously until thickened, about 5-7 minutes. Set aside.
Skewer and Grill
  1. Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers, leaving space between pieces. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and grill skewers for 6-8 minutes on each side until cooked through and charred, basting with glaze in the last few minutes.
Serve and Enjoy
  1. Remove skewers from the grill and let rest for a couple of minutes. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve with rice or salad.

Notes

Marinate ahead for better flavor. Feel free to add vegetables to the skewers. Leftovers can be used in salads or grain bowls.