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Yakitori (焼き鳥)

Japan

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Ghibli-style illustration of Yakitori skewers, grilled chicken on bamboo sticks, with a warm, magical ambiance.

Traditional Japanese chicken skewers consisting of pieces of marinated chicken thigh fillet and small chicken meatball balls, served with a sweet‑soy sauce. Perfect for a picnic or a home dinner.

Ingredients

Steps

  1. Ghibli-style illustration of the first step in preparing Yakitori, showcasing a warm, inviting kitchen scene.

    Prepare the sauce: in a small saucepan combine soy sauce, sugar and 1 tbsp water, bring to a boil and simmer over low heat for 1–2 minutes until thickened.

  2. Ghibli-style illustration of a step in the Yakitori preparation process, featuring traditional Japanese culinary art.

    Negima: cut the scallion into pieces about 2 cm long, brush with vegetable oil. Cut the chicken thigh fillet into 2–3 cm pieces and thread onto a bamboo skewer alternating a piece of scallion and a piece of fillet (2–3 pieces of each). Season with salt on both sides.

  3. Ghibli-style illustration of a step in the Yakitori preparation process, featuring Japanese culinary aesthetics.

    Tsukune: in a bowl mix ground chicken, season with salt and pepper, add flour and 1 tbsp water, knead until homogeneous. Add finely shredded scallion and ginger, shape into balls about 2 cm in diameter and boil them in water for 4–5 minutes, then drain. Thread 3–4 balls onto each skewer.

  4. Anime-style illustration of a step in preparing Japanese Yakitori, showcasing the cooking process with warm, inviting colors.

    Grilling: heat a metal grill over an open flame of a gas stove, place the skewers and grill on one side, then turn and grill until the meat is cooked and the balls are golden‑brown.

  5. Yakitori cooking step illustration in Ghibli style, showing a hand preparing ingredients.

    Remove the cooked skewers and brush them with the prepared sauce.

FAQ

What is the original Japanese name for Yakitori?

The original Japanese name for Yakitori is 焼き鳥 (やきとり).

Can I make Yakitori without a grill?

Yes, you can cook Yakitori in a hot pan or under a broiler, turning frequently until cooked through and caramelized.

What are common variations of Yakitori?

Common variations include Negima (chicken and scallion), Tsukune (chicken meatballs), and Momo (chicken thigh). Our recipe includes both Negima-style and Tsukune.

What can I serve with Yakitori?

Yakitori is often served with rice, a simple salad, or pickled vegetables. It's also great on its own as a snack or appetizer.

How long does homemade Yakitori last in the fridge?

Cooked Yakitori can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.