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Sizzling Chicken Yakitori Skewers embody a delightful aspect of Japanese cuisine that transcends mere cooking; they provide a flavorful experience steeped in rich culinary tradition. Yakitori, which translates to "grilled chicken," holds a significant place in Japanese street food culture, often enjoyed in izakayas (Japanese pubs) and at summer festivals. The concept revolves around marinated chicken pieces skewered and grilled to perfection, allowing the natural flavors of the ingredients to shine through.

Sizzling Chicken Yakitori Skewers

Elevate your grilling night with this delicious Chicken Yakitori skewers recipe, perfect for enjoying the flavors of Japanese cuisine in your backyard. Marinated to perfection and garnished with sesame seeds, these tender chicken skewers will impress your guests and become a new favorite for summer gatherings. Discover the art of grilling with this simple yet flavorful dish that brings a taste of Japan to your outdoor cooking.
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Ingredients
  

1 lb (450g) boneless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces

1/4 cup soy sauce

1/4 cup mirin (Japanese sweet rice wine)

2 tablespoons sake (Japanese rice wine)

2 tablespoons brown sugar

1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil

2 green onions, trimmed and cut into 2-inch sections

10 bamboo skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes)

Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Skewers: Begin by soaking bamboo skewers in water for at least 30 minutes. This step is crucial to prevent them from catching fire while grilling.

    Create the Marinade: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, mirin, sake, brown sugar, and toasted sesame oil. Whisk thoroughly until the brown sugar fully dissolves. Set aside approximately 2 tablespoons of this marinade for later use in glazing the skewers.

      Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken pieces in the bowl with the marinade, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. Cover the bowl tightly and refrigerate for a minimum of 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for an enhanced flavor profile.

        Assemble the Skewers: Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium heat. After marinating, remove the chicken from the marinade. Thread the chicken pieces onto the soaked skewers, alternating each piece with sections of green onion for added flavor and color.

          Grill the Skewers: Once your grill reaches the desired temperature, place the skewers on it. Using a brush, baste the skewers with the reserved marinade. Grill for approximately 10-12 minutes, turning them occasionally. Cook until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and exhibits beautiful grill marks.

            Garnish and Serve: After grilling, carefully remove the skewers from the grill. For a finishing touch, sprinkle sesame seeds over the top if desired. Serve the yakitori hot and fresh, with additional dipping sauce on the side, if you like.

              Presentation Tips: Serve the skewers on a wooden platter with a side of dipping sauce and additional chopped green onions for color. You can also garnish the platter with a few slices of lime for a refreshing touch.

                Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour (including marination) | Servings: 4