Chicken

Chicken Yakitori

Name: Chicken Yakitori
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb (450g) chicken thighs, boneless; 1/4 cup (60ml) soy sauce; 2 tablespoons sake; 2 tablespoons sugar-free sweetener; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon grated ginger; 1/4 cup (15g) chopped green onions; 2 tablespoons sesame oil; 1 teaspoon sesame seeds; Salt and pepper to taste

By Elias Greenwood · June 19, 2026 · Chicken

Prep20 min

Cook15 min

Total40 min

Serves4

Chicken Yakitori, a classic Japanese dish, has always been a staple in my household. The combination of tender chicken, savory sauce, and the simplicity of preparation makes it an ideal meal for any occasion. As a home cook who follows a low-carb keto diet, I've found that with a few tweaks, this traditional recipe can be easily adapted to fit within our dietary needs.

What I love about Chicken Yakitori is its versatility. It can be served as an appetizer, a main course, or even as a snack. The key to making great Chicken Yakitori is in the marinade and the cooking technique. By using high-quality ingredients and paying attention to the details, you can create a dish that is not only delicious but also visually appealing.

In this recipe, I'll guide you through the process of making authentic Chicken Yakitori that is both low in carbs and rich in flavor. From the preparation of the marinade to the final touches of garnish, I'll share with you my tips and tricks for achieving perfection.

Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is designed to be approachable and easy to follow. So, let's get started on this culinary journey and create a dish that will leave you and your guests wanting more.

The beauty of Chicken Yakitori lies in its simplicity. With just a few ingredients and some basic cooking techniques, you can create a meal that is both satisfying and healthy. In the following sections, we'll dive deeper into the world of Chicken Yakitori and explore the steps necessary to make this dish a success.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is easy to make and requires minimal ingredients
It's a low-carb keto dish that is perfect for those following a ketogenic diet
The marinade can be made ahead of time, making it a great option for meal prep
The dish is versatile and can be served as an appetizer, main course, or snack
It's a great way to add some excitement to your weekly meal routine
The recipe is scalable, making it perfect for large gatherings or small families

Why This Recipe Works

The success of Chicken Yakitori can be attributed to the combination of the marinade, the cooking technique, and the quality of the ingredients. The marinade, made with soy sauce, sake, and sugar-free sweetener, provides a depth of flavor that enhances the natural taste of the chicken. By using a sugar-free sweetener, we can reduce the carb content of the dish while maintaining its sweetness.

The cooking technique is also crucial. Grilling the chicken over medium-high heat allows for a nice char on the outside while keeping the inside juicy and tender. This technique, known as the Maillard reaction, is a chemical reaction between amino acids and reducing sugars that gives browned food its distinctive flavor.

Finally, the quality of the ingredients plays a significant role in the success of the dish. Using fresh and high-quality chicken, along with other ingredients like green onions and sesame seeds, ensures that the final product is not only delicious but also visually appealing.

Ingredients You’ll Need

When it comes to making Chicken Yakitori, the ingredients are just as important as the technique. In this recipe, we'll be using a combination of soy sauce, sake, and sugar-free sweetener to create a marinade that is both flavorful and low in carbs. We'll also be using green onions, sesame seeds, and other ingredients to add texture and visual appeal to the dish.

When shopping for ingredients, be sure to choose high-quality chicken and fresh green onions. The sesame seeds and soy sauce can be found in most Asian grocery stores or online.

1 lb (450g) chicken thighs, bonelessChicken thighs are preferred for this recipe because they are more tender and juicy than chicken breasts. Make sure to choose boneless thighs to ensure even cooking.
1/4 cup (60ml) soy sauceSoy sauce is a key ingredient in the marinade, providing a salty and umami flavor to the dish. Choose a low-sodium soy sauce to reduce the salt content of the dish.
2 tablespoons sakeSake is a Japanese rice wine that adds a subtle sweetness and depth to the marinade. If you can't find sake, you can substitute it with dry white wine or omit it altogether.
2 tablespoons sugar-free sweetenerSugar-free sweetener is used to reduce the carb content of the dish while maintaining its sweetness. Choose a sweetener that is suitable for a ketogenic diet, such as stevia or erythritol.
2 cloves garlic, mincedGarlic adds a pungent flavor to the marinade and helps to balance out the sweetness of the sugar-free sweetener. Make sure to mince the garlic finely to ensure even distribution of flavor.
1 tablespoon grated gingerGinger adds a spicy and warming flavor to the marinade, complementing the sweetness of the sugar-free sweetener. Choose fresh ginger for the best flavor.
1/4 cup (15g) chopped green onionsGreen onions add a fresh and oniony flavor to the dish, as well as a pop of color. Choose fresh green onions for the best flavor and texture.
2 tablespoons sesame oilSesame oil is used to add a nutty and aromatic flavor to the dish. Choose a high-quality sesame oil that is suitable for high-heat cooking.
1 teaspoon sesame seedsSesame seeds add a crunchy texture and a nutty flavor to the dish. Choose white or black sesame seeds, depending on your preference.
Salt and pepper to tasteSalt and pepper are used to season the dish and bring out the natural flavors of the ingredients. Use a low-sodium salt to reduce the salt content of the dish.

Equipment You’ll Need

Large bowlWhiskMeasuring cups and spoonsInstant-read thermometerGrill or grill pan Cutting boardSharp knife

How to Make Chicken Yakitori

1
In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sake, sugar-free sweetener, garlic, and ginger to make the marinade.
2
Add the chicken thighs to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3
Preheat the grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and thread onto skewers, if using.
4
Brush the grill or grill pan with sesame oil to prevent sticking. Grill the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165 F (74 C).
5
While the chicken is cooking, mix together chopped green onions and sesame seeds in a small bowl.
6
Once the chicken is cooked, brush it with the sesame oil and sprinkle with the green onion and sesame seed mixture.
7
Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
8
To make the sauce, whisk together 2 tablespoons of the marinade, 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, and 1 tablespoon of sugar-free sweetener in a small saucepan. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until it thickens slightly.
9
Brush the sauce over the chicken and serve immediately.
10
Garnish with additional green onions and sesame seeds, if desired.
11
Serve the Chicken Yakitori with your favorite sides, such as cauliflower rice or a green salad.

Expert Tips

Make sure to choose high-quality chicken and fresh green onions for the best flavor and texture.
Don't overcook the chicken, as it can become dry and tough.
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
Use a sugar-free sweetener that is suitable for a ketogenic diet to reduce the carb content of the dish.
Don't be afraid to experiment with different seasonings and sauces to find the flavor combination that you enjoy the most.
Consider making a large batch of the marinade and storing it in the fridge for up to a week to use as a quick and easy sauce for other dishes.
To add some heat to the dish, sprinkle a few red pepper flakes over the chicken before serving.
For a more intense flavor, let the chicken marinate for a longer period of time, such as 2 hours or overnight.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not cooking the chicken to the correct internal temperature, which can result in undercooked or overcooked chicken.
Overcrowding the grill or grill pan, which can cause the chicken to steam instead of sear.
Not letting the chicken rest before slicing and serving, which can result in a less juicy and tender final product.
Using low-quality ingredients, which can affect the flavor and texture of the dish.
Not whisking the marinade ingredients together well, which can result in a marinade that is not evenly distributed.
Not brushing the grill or grill pan with oil before cooking, which can cause the chicken to stick and become difficult to flip.

Variations and Substitutions

Add some diced vegetables, such as bell peppers or onions, to the skewers with the chicken for added flavor and nutrition.
Use different types of protein, such as beef or pork, for a variation on the traditional chicken yakitori.
Add some heat to the dish by sprinkling a few red pepper flakes over the chicken before serving.
Use different types of sugar-free sweeteners, such as stevia or erythritol, to find the one that works best for you.
Add some fresh herbs, such as parsley or cilantro, to the dish for added flavor and freshness.
Use a different type of oil, such as coconut oil or avocado oil, for a unique flavor and nutritional profile.
Add some crunch to the dish by sprinkling some chopped nuts or seeds over the top of the chicken before serving.

What to Serve With Chicken Yakitori

Chicken Yakitori is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways. Consider serving it as an appetizer or snack, or as a main course with your favorite sides. Some popular options include cauliflower rice, green salad, or roasted vegetables.

For a more substantial meal, consider serving the Chicken Yakitori with a side of soup or a salad. The spicy and savory flavors of the dish pair well with a variety of soups, such as wonton soup or egg drop soup.

Cauliflower riceGreen saladRoasted vegetablesWonton soupEgg drop soupSteamed broccoli

Make-Ahead, Storage, Freezing and Reheating

Chicken Yakitori can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. To store, place the cooked chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate or freeze.

To reheat, simply grill or pan-fry the chicken until it is warmed through. You can also reheat it in the oven at 350 F (180 C) for 5-7 minutes, or until it is warmed through.

Consider making a large batch of the marinade and storing it in the fridge for up to a week to use as a quick and easy sauce for other dishes. Simply whisk together the ingredients and store in an airtight container in the fridge.

When freezing, make sure to wrap the chicken tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Label the package with the date and contents, and store in the freezer at 0 F (-18 C) or below.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of chicken is best for Chicken Yakitori?

Boneless chicken thighs are the best type of chicken to use for Chicken Yakitori. They are more tender and juicy than chicken breasts and have a better texture for grilling.

Can I use a different type of protein for Chicken Yakitori?

Yes, you can use different types of protein, such as beef or pork, for a variation on the traditional chicken yakitori. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time and temperature accordingly.

How do I prevent the chicken from sticking to the grill or grill pan?

To prevent the chicken from sticking to the grill or grill pan, be sure to brush the grill or grill pan with oil before cooking. You can also use a non-stick cooking spray or a small amount of oil on the chicken itself.

Can I make Chicken Yakitori ahead of time?

Yes, you can make Chicken Yakitori ahead of time. Simply marinate the chicken, then grill or pan-fry it until it is cooked through. Let it cool, then refrigerate or freeze it until you are ready to serve.

What is the best way to reheat Chicken Yakitori?

The best way to reheat Chicken Yakitori is to grill or pan-fry it until it is warmed through. You can also reheat it in the oven at 350 F (180 C) for 5-7 minutes, or until it is warmed through.

Can I use a sugar-free sweetener that is not suitable for a ketogenic diet?

No, it is not recommended to use a sugar-free sweetener that is not suitable for a ketogenic diet. Sugar-free sweeteners that are not suitable for a ketogenic diet can cause a spike in blood sugar and insulin levels, which can be detrimental to your health.

How do I store Chicken Yakitori in the fridge or freezer?

To store Chicken Yakitori in the fridge or freezer, place the cooked chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate or freeze. Label the package with the date and contents, and store in the fridge at 40 F (4 C) or below or the freezer at 0 F (-18 C) or below.

Can I make a large batch of the marinade and store it in the fridge?

Yes, you can make a large batch of the marinade and store it in the fridge for up to a week. Simply whisk together the ingredients and store in an airtight container in the fridge.

The Full Recipe

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