Jiangsu-style Grilled Chicken Skewers

Ingredients

While the original Yakitori recipe from Japanese cuisine typically uses a simple marinade of soy sauce, mirin, and sake, the Jiangsu-style Grilled Chicken Skewers incorporate additional ingredients and spices to reflect the flavors of Jiangsu cuisine. The marinade includes ginger, garlic, and brown sugar, which add depth and sweetness to the dish. Additionally, the grilling technique over charcoal gives the chicken a smoky flavor that is characteristic of Jiangsu cuisine. We alse have the original recipe for Yakitori, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces 500g (1.1 lb) boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons Shaoxing rice wine 2 tablespoons Shaoxing rice wine
• 1 tablespoon ginger, grated 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• Bamboo skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes Bamboo skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 12g, 3g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 5g, 3g
• Protein: 28g
• Fiber: 0g
• Salt: 2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a bowl, combine soy sauce, rice wine, grated ginger, minced garlic, brown sugar, and vegetable oil. Mix well to make the marinade.
2. 2.
   Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and toss until they are well coated. Let the chicken marinate for at least 1 hour, or overnight in the refrigerator for more flavor.
3. 3.
   Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
4. 4.
   Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the soaked bamboo skewers.
5. 5.
   Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred.
6. 6.
   Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Chicken thighs — To ensure tender and juicy skewers, use boneless chicken thighs instead of chicken breast. Thigh meat has more fat, which keeps the chicken moist during grilling.

Tips & Tricks

• Soaking the bamboo skewers in water prevents them from burning during grilling.
• Baste the skewers with the marinade while grilling to enhance the flavor.
• Serve the skewers with a side of chili sauce or soy sauce for dipping.
• For a smokier flavor, use a charcoal grill instead of a gas grill.
• If you prefer a sweeter taste, add a bit more brown sugar to the marinade.

Serving advice

Serve the Jiangsu-style Grilled Chicken Skewers as a main course alongside steamed rice or with a side of stir-fried vegetables. Garnish with chopped green onions for added freshness.

Presentation advice

Arrange the grilled chicken skewers on a platter, garnish with sesame seeds and fresh cilantro leaves. Serve with a wedge of lime for squeezing over the skewers.