Chicken Yakitori is a traditional Japanese dish made with skewered chicken pieces marinated in a savory sauce and grilled over charcoal. One serving of Chicken Yakitori contains approximately 186 calories.

Not only is Chicken Yakitori delicious, but it's also a healthier alternative to other grilled chicken dishes. The chicken is marinated in a sauce that is low in fat and calories, and the skewering process allows for excess fat to drip away during cooking.

In this article, we'll explore the history and culture behind Chicken Yakitori, the nutritional benefits of eating it, and tips for cooking and serving it at home.

What is Chicken Yakitori?

Chicken Yakitori is a traditional Japanese dish made with skewered chicken pieces that are marinated in a savory sauce called tare. It's usually cooked over a charcoal grill and is a popular street food in Japan. The word "yakitori" means "grilled chicken" in Japanese. There are many variations of Chicken Yakitori, but the basic ingredients include chicken, tare sauce, and skewers. The chicken is cut into bite-sized pieces and threaded onto skewers, which are then placed on the grill and brushed with tare sauce as they cook. The cooking process gives the chicken a deliciously smoky flavor and crispy exterior while keeping the meat juicy and tender. Chicken Yakitori is often served at traditional Japanese restaurants, Izakayas (Japanese pubs), and food stalls. It can be enjoyed as a main course or as an appetizer to share with friends.

Yakitori vs. BBQ Chicken: Differences and Similarities

While Yakitori and BBQ chicken are both made with chicken and cooked over a grill, there are some key differences between the two dishes. Yakitori is typically made with bite-sized pieces of chicken that are skewered and cooked quickly over high heat, while BBQ chicken is usually cooked as larger pieces of meat over low heat for a longer period of time. Additionally, Yakitori is marinated in a sauce before grilling, while BBQ chicken can be marinated or rubbed with dry spices before cooking. Finally, Yakitori is often served with traditional Japanese dipping sauces, while BBQ chicken is typically served with BBQ sauce. Despite the differences, both dishes are delicious and can be enjoyed at backyard barbecues, parties, and special events.

Ingredients for Making Chicken Yakitori at Home

Making Chicken Yakitori at home is easier than you might think. Here are the basic ingredients you'll need: - 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces - 1/4 cup soy sauce, 1/4 cup mirin, 1/4 cup sake, 2 tablespoons sugar, 2 cloves garlic, minced, and 1 teaspoon grated ginger to make tare sauce

The Best Sauces to Pair with Chicken Yakitori

Chicken Yakitori is usually served with dipping sauces to enhance the flavor of the chicken. Here are some of the best sauces to pair with Chicken Yakitori: - Tare sauce (traditional Yakitori sauce) - Ponzu sauce (citrus-based sauce), Teriyaki sauce (sweet and savory sauce), Ume plum sauce (tangy and sweet sauce)

Health Benefits of Chicken Yakitori

Chicken Yakitori is a healthy and nutritious dish that packs a lot of flavor. Here are some health benefits of eating Chicken Yakitori: - Chicken is a good source of lean protein, which helps build and repair muscles. - Tare sauce is low in fat and calories, making it a healthier alternative to other dipping sauces like ranch or BBQ sauce.

How to Cook Chicken Yakitori on Skewers

Here's how to cook Chicken Yakitori on skewers: - Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning. - Thread the chicken pieces onto the skewers and brush with tare sauce.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Chicken Yakitori

Here are some common mistakes to avoid when making Chicken Yakitori: - Overcooking the chicken, which can make it dry and tough. - Not soaking the skewers, which can cause them to burn over high heat.

Tips for Buying and Preparing Chicken for Yakitori

Here are some tips for buying and preparing chicken for Yakitori: - Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for the most flavor and tenderness. - Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces to cook evenly on the skewers.

Regional Variations of Chicken Yakitori in Japan

There are many regional variations of Chicken Yakitori in Japan, each with their unique flavors and ingredients. Some of the most popular variations include: - Negima Yakitori, which is made with chicken and leeks - Momo Yakitori, which is made with chicken thighs

Serving Ideas for Chicken Yakitori at Parties and Gatherings

Chicken Yakitori is an excellent dish to serve at parties and gatherings. Here are some ideas for serving Chicken Yakitori: - Skewer the Chicken Yakitori in advance and keep them warm in a slow cooker or warming tray. - Set up a dipping sauce bar with various sauces and toppings for guests to customize their Yakitori experience.