Craving delicious yakitori but short on time or grilling space? This recipe delivers all the smoky, savory goodness of classic yakitori skewers without the hassle! Forget tedious threading and long grilling times; this pan-fried version offers a quick and easy weeknight meal or satisfying snack. We're using simple, readily available ingredients to achieve that authentic yakitori flavor profile you love, transforming humble chicken thighs into a truly unforgettable dish. The perfectly charred exterior gives way to juicy, tender chicken, bursting with umami thanks to a simple yet effective marinade.
Get ready to experience the joy of effortless yakitori with our straightforward, step-by-step guide. We'll walk you through each stage, from prepping the chicken and creating the flavorful marinade to achieving that perfect pan-fried texture. Prepare for a culinary adventure that will leave you wondering why you ever bothered with skewers!
Tools Needed
- Frying pan
- Paper towels
- Gloves (optional)
- Flipper (optional)
Ingredients
- Chicken breast meat
- Chicken thigh meat
- Green onions
- Sugar
- Mirin
- Soy sauce
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prep the Chicken
- Thoroughly wipe the chicken meat with paper towels for better taste.
- For chicken breast, open it from the middle like a double door to even out the thickness. This prevents uneven grilling.
- Cut both chicken breast and thigh meat into bite-sized pieces, imagining the finished yakitori.
Step 2. Pan-Fry the Chicken
- Place the chicken in a cold frying pan. Using gloves is recommended at this stage.
- Grill the chicken skin-side down over medium heat, avoiding touching it. The key is to let it cook without disturbance.
- Once the chicken is cooked and plump and starts to move freely in the pan, flip it over using a flipper if needed.
Step 3. Make & Add the Yakitori Sauce
- Prepare the yakitori sauce by mixing sugar, mirin, and soy sauce.
- Add the yakitori sauce to the pan, allowing it to boil down and thicken. Mix well with the chicken.
Step 4. Garnish & Serve
- Garnish with chopped green onions.
Read more: Steamed Meat-Topped Tofu with Sesame Sauce: A Delicious Japanese Recipe
Tips
- Cut green onions into slightly larger pieces to better enjoy their flavor and texture.
- Using two types of chicken (breast and thigh) offers a variety of flavors.
Nutrition
- Calories: varies depending on ingredient amounts
- Fat: varies depending on ingredient amountsg
- Carbs: varies depending on ingredient amountsg
- Protein: varies depending on ingredient amountsg
FAQs
1. Can I use different types of meat?
Yes! Pork belly, beef, or even tofu work well. Adjust marinating time accordingly; tougher meats need longer.
2. What if I don't have mirin?
You can substitute with a teaspoon of sugar and a splash of rice vinegar per tablespoon of mirin omitted. It won't be exactly the same, but still delicious!
3. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover yakitori in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan or microwave.
This pan-fried yakitori recipe proves that incredible flavor doesn't require complicated techniques or hours of preparation. Enjoy this quick, easy, and unbelievably tasty dish as a satisfying snack, appetizer, or even a light meal. So ditch the skewers and get cooking – your taste buds will thank you!