Air Fryer Yakitori Recipe

Air Fryer Yakitori Recipe

Yakitori is a traditional Japanese dish consisting of skewered and grilled chicken, often seasoned with a savory-sweet sauce. Using an air fryer to cook yakitori is a quick and efficient method that ensures the chicken is juicy and flavorful with a perfect char.

This Air Fryer Yakitori recipe is simple to prepare and packed with delicious flavors, making it an excellent choice for an appetizer, snack, or main dish. With minimal ingredients and a short cooking time, you'll have tasty and authentic yakitori ready in no time.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Skewers:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

• 1 bunch green onions, cut into 1-inch pieces

• 12 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes

For the Yakitori Sauce (Tare):

• 1/2 cup soy sauce

• 1/4 cup mirin

• 1/4 cup sake

• 2 tablespoons sugar

• 1 teaspoon grated ginger

• 1 teaspoon minced garlic

Instructions

Preparation:

1. Prepare the Chicken:

• Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces.

• Cut the green onions into 1-inch pieces.

• Thread the chicken pieces and green onions alternately onto the soaked bamboo skewers.

1. Prepare the Yakitori Sauce (Tare):

• In a small saucepan, combine the soy sauce, mirin, sake, sugar, grated ginger, and minced garlic.

• Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 10 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Remove from heat and set aside.

Cooking:

1. Preheat the Air Fryer:

• Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C). Preheating helps ensure even cooking from the start.

1. Air Fry the Yakitori:

• Lightly brush the chicken skewers with the prepared yakitori sauce.

• Place the skewers in the air fryer basket in a single layer. If necessary, cook in batches to avoid overcrowding.

• Air fry at 380°F (193°C) for 10-12 minutes, turning and basting with additional sauce halfway through cooking. Cook until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred on the edges.

Serving:

1. Serve the Yakitori:

• Transfer the cooked yakitori to a serving platter.

• Brush with any remaining yakitori sauce for extra flavor.

• Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired.

• Pair with steamed rice, pickled vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Tips and Variations

• Protein Variations: Try using other proteins such as beef, pork, or tofu for a different take on yakitori.

• Vegetable Additions: Add vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini to the skewers for extra flavor and nutrition.

• Serving Suggestions: Serve the yakitori with a side of Japanese pickles, miso soup, or edamame for a full Japanese meal experience.

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes or until warmed through.

Conclusion

This Air Fryer Yakitori recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy the traditional flavors of Japanese skewered chicken with a quick and easy cooking method. The air fryer ensures the chicken is juicy and flavorful with a perfect char, making it a delicious choice for any meal. Whether you're preparing an appetizer, snack, or main dish, these air-fried yakitori skewers are sure to impress.

Enjoy the convenience and deliciousness of air-fried yakitori with this easy recipe. Juicy, flavorful, and full of authentic Japanese flavors, they're a delightful addition to any meal!