Mayumi'S Chicken Yakitori
Juicy chicken yakitori with savory soy-mirin glaze, perfect as an appetizer or main, combining tender meat with caramelized onions for a delicious Japanese-inspired dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine soy sauce, Mirin, sugar, and cornstarch in a saucepan and boil to make the marinade.
- Allow the marinade to cool, then marinate the chicken for 20 minutes.
- Thread the marinated chicken and onions alternately onto bamboo skewers.
- Preheat the broiler to 375°F.
- Broil the skewers for 15 minutes, turning once and brushing with marinade 2 or 3 times during cooking.
- Serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, let the chicken marinate for a couple of hours or overnight if possible. You can substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts for a leaner option, though they may require a shorter cooking time. If you don't have Mirin, a mixture of white wine and a bit of sugar works well. For added texture, consider adding bell peppers or zucchini to the skewers.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Mayumi's Chicken Yakitori hot off the grill with a sprinkle of sesame seeds for added crunch. It pairs beautifully with steamed rice or a fresh cucumber salad. For a complete meal, consider making a side of Old-Fashioned Southern Corn Pudding to complement the flavors of the yakitori.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover yakitori in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the skewers on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the chicken rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mayumi'S Chicken Yakitori contains roughly 134 calories, with 5g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 871mg per serving (38% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of meat for this recipe?
Yes, you can use pork or beef instead of chicken. Just make sure to adjust the cooking times accordingly, as different meats may require varying temperatures and times to cook through safely.
What type of skewers should I use?
Bamboo skewers are traditional for yakitori, but be sure to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes beforehand to prevent burning. Metal skewers are also an option, offering durability and easy reuse.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute regular soy sauce with a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari. Ensure all other ingredients, like mirin, are also gluten-free. This will keep the flavor while making the dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).