KAMAKURA YAKITORI SKEWERS

Sweet-Savory Japanese Chicken Skewers

Inspired by the charming streets of Kamakura, these classic Japanese chicken skewers feature tender chicken, green onions, and a simple ginger-soy glaze that's perfect for grilling. Easy enough for a weeknight dinner, yet special enough for sharing with family and friends.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20

Cook Time 10

Add Skewer soaking time 30

Course Appetizer, Main Course

Cuisine Japanese

Servings 4

Ingredients

Yakitori

1 pound boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into ¾-inch pieces
6 –8 green onions cut into 1-inch pieces (white and light green parts)
1 teaspoon vegetable oil
8 –10 bamboo skewers soaked in water for 30 minutes

Kamakura Ginger Glaze

½ cup soy sauce
½ cup sake dry sherry, or Shaoxing wine
3 tablespoons mirin or rice vinegar
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 garlic clove minced
1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger

Instructions

In a small bowl, whisk together all of the glaze ingredients until the brown sugar has dissolved.
Reserve ¼ cup of the glaze for serving.
Toss the chicken pieces with the vegetable oil. Thread the chicken and green onions alternately onto the soaked bamboo skewers.
Brush the skewers generously with the remaining glaze.
Grill over medium-high heat for 10–12 minutes, turning every few minutes and brushing with additional glaze until the chicken is beautifully caramelized and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Serve immediately with the reserved glaze for dipping.

Serving Suggestions

Serve over steamed jasmine rice with grilled vegetables or a crisp cucumber salad. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions for an extra touch of flavor.

Notes

Tips

Chicken thighs stay juicier than chicken breast and develop wonderful caramelization on the grill.
Soaking the bamboo skewers helps prevent burning.
A small charcoal grill gives yakitori its classic flavor, but a gas grill works beautifully too.
The reserved glaze also makes a delicious drizzle over rice.

Travel Tip: If you ever find yourself in Kamakura, follow the aroma of charcoal and sweet soy glaze. Chances are, you'll discover one of the best yakitori meals imaginable...and don't forget the sushi too!!

Keyword yakitori