Japanese BBQ Sauce Chicken Recipe | Umami-Packed

If you’re looking to try something new and exciting for dinner, this Japanese BBQ Sauce Chicken recipe is just what you need.

Tender, juicy chicken combined with the rich, umami-packed flavors of a homemade Japanese BBQ sauce is the perfect way to elevate your dinner game.

It’s easy to prepare and can be served up in various ways—whether you’re enjoying a quiet night at home or hosting a small gathering. Let me take you through this delicious Japanese BBQ Sauce Chicken Recipe step by step!

Why This Recipe Is A Must-Try?

This Japanese BBQ Sauce Chicken recipe is a must-try because it offers a perfect balance of savory, sweet, and umami flavors that are sure to tantalize your taste buds.

The tender, juicy chicken paired with the rich, homemade BBQ sauce makes for an irresistible dish that’s both easy to prepare and packed with flavor.

A fan of Japanese cuisine or simply looking to try something new, this Japanese BBQ Sauce Chicken recipe is quick, versatile, and guaranteed to impress. It’s the perfect addition to any weeknight dinner or weekend gathering!

How To Prepare Japanese BBQ Sauce Chicken Recipe?

Recipe Overview

Preparation Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: Japanese Fusion

Difficulty: Easy

Yield: 4 servings

Kitchen Utensils Needed

  • Grill or grill pan
  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Basting brush
  • Tongs
  • Knife and cutting board

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs if you prefer)
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Japanese BBQ Sauce:

  • 1/2 cup soy sauce (preferably low-sodium)
  • 1/4 cup mirin (a sweet rice wine)
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 2 tablespoons grated ginger
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for some heat)
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds (for garnish, optional)
  • Fresh green onions, chopped (for garnish, optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

Start by preparing your chicken. Season both sides of the chicken breasts (or thighs) with salt and pepper.

Next, heat the vegetable oil in a large grill pan or preheat your grill. Once the pan is hot, place the chicken on it.

Cook each side for about 5-6 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice golden-brown sear. If using a grill, the same cooking time applies.

2. Make the Japanese BBQ Sauce

While the chicken is cooking, it’s time to make the BBQ sauce. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, mirin, rice vinegar, honey, sesame oil, grated ginger, minced garlic, brown sugar, and red pepper flakes (if using).

 Whisk the ingredients until the sugar dissolves and everything is well combined.

3. Baste the Chicken

Once the chicken is almost done cooking, begin basting it with the prepared Japanese BBQ sauce. Using a basting brush, generously coat the chicken with the sauce on all sides. Continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to caramelize slightly on the chicken.

4. Serve and Garnish

Once the chicken is cooked and beautifully glazed with the sauce, remove it from the grill or pan. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.

For added flair, sprinkle toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions on top of the chicken. These toppings add a delightful crunch and extra flavor.

5. Enjoy!

Serve the Japanese BBQ Sauce Chicken with your favorite side dishes, such as steamed rice, sautéed vegetables, or a fresh salad.

This dish is perfect for any occasion and will surely impress your guests with its unique, delicious flavor.

Special Note

Substitutions: If you can’t find mirin, you can substitute it with a mix of dry white wine and sugar, or use rice vinegar with a little extra honey. If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs will work wonderfully with this sauce as they tend to be juicier.

Storage: Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 1 month. Just make sure to reheat thoroughly before serving.

Vegetarian Option: If you’re looking for a vegetarian version, you can swap out the chicken for tofu or tempeh. Just be sure to press out any excess moisture from the tofu before grilling it.

Japanese BBQ Sauce Chicken Recipe
Japanese BBQ Sauce Chicken Recipe

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

NutritionAmount
Calories230 kcal
Protein26g
Fat12g
Saturated fat2g
Carbohydrates7g
Fiber1g
Sugar6g
Sodium560mg
Cholesterol70mg

These nutrition facts are approximate and can vary depending on the specific ingredients used. For a Lighter Version, You Can Use Less Honey Or Opt For A Sugar Substitute.

Tips And Variations:

Use chicken thighs: If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs are a great alternative. They remain juicy and tender, and their flavor pairs wonderfully with the BBQ sauce.

Grill marks: If you don’t have a grill, you can use a grill pan to get those nice char marks on your chicken. It adds an extra layer of flavor!

➤ Add spice: If you like a bit of heat, try adding some chili flakes, a dash of hot sauce, or even some wasabi to the BBQ sauce for a spicy kick.

Marinate the chicken: If you want an even deeper flavor, marinate the chicken in the BBQ sauce for about 30 minutes before grilling. This will allow the flavors to penetrate the meat for extra juiciness.

Health Benefits

This Japanese BBQ Sauce Chicken recipe is not only flavorful but also has several health benefits:

High in Protein: Chicken is a great source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth.

Rich in Selenium: Chicken contains selenium, a mineral that supports immune function and thyroid health.

➤ Low in Carbs: This Japanese BBQ Sauce Chicken recipe is low in carbohydrates, making it a great option for those on low-carb or keto diets.

Antioxidants: Garlic and ginger, key ingredients in the sauce, are known for their antioxidant properties. They can help boost your immune system and reduce inflammation.

Conclusion

This Japanese BBQ Sauce Chicken recipe is a fantastic way to explore new flavors in your kitchen.

The combination of savory soy sauce, sweet honey, and the richness of sesame oil creates a mouthwatering glaze that will leave everyone asking for more.

Give it a try, and I’m confident that you’ll love the flavors of this Japanese BBQ Sauce Chicken recipe. Don’t forget to share your creations with me—I’d love to see how it turns out for you!

Enjoy your meal!

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Japanese BBQ Sauce Chicken Recipe

Japanese BBQ Sauce Chicken Recipe

Luna
The Japanese BBQ Sauce Chicken recipe features tender chicken glazed with a savory, slightly sweet Japanese BBQ sauce made from soy sauce, mirin, and ginger. Grilled or pan-cooked, the chicken absorbs the rich, umami-packed flavors of the sauce, creating a deliciously caramelized crust. This dish offers a flavorful, unique twist on traditional BBQ.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Japanese Fusion
Servings 4 servings
Calories 230 kcal

Equipment

  • Grill or grill pan
  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Basting brush
  • Tongs
  • Knife and cutting board

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken:

  • 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (or thighs if you prefer)
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Japanese BBQ Sauce:

  • 1/2 cup soy sauce preferably low-sodium
  • 1/4 cup mirin a sweet rice wine
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 2 tablespoons grated ginger
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional, for some heat
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds for garnish, optional
  • Fresh green onions chopped (for garnish, optional)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Chicken

  • Start by preparing your chicken. Season both sides of the chicken breasts (or thighs) with salt and pepper.
  • Next, heat the vegetable oil in a large grill pan or preheat your grill. Once the pan is hot, place the chicken on it.
  • Cook each side for about 5-6 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice golden-brown sear. If using a grill, the same cooking time applies.

Make the Japanese BBQ Sauce

  • While the chicken is cooking, it’s time to make the BBQ sauce. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, mirin, rice vinegar, honey, sesame oil, grated ginger, minced garlic, brown sugar, and red pepper flakes (if using).
  • Whisk the ingredients until the sugar dissolves and everything is well combined.

Baste the Chicken

  • Once the chicken is almost done cooking, begin basting it with the prepared Japanese BBQ sauce. Using a basting brush, generously coat the chicken with the sauce on all sides. Continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to caramelize slightly on the chicken.

Serve and Garnish

  • Once the chicken is cooked and beautifully glazed with the sauce, remove it from the grill or pan. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
  • For added flair, sprinkle toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions on top of the chicken. These toppings add a delightful crunch and extra flavor.

Enjoy!

  • Serve the Japanese BBQ Sauce Chicken with your favorite side dishes, such as steamed rice, sautéed vegetables, or a fresh salad.
  • This dish is perfect for any occasion and will surely impress your guests with its unique, delicious flavor.

Notes

❖ Substitutions: If you can’t find mirin, you can substitute it with a mix of dry white wine and sugar, or use rice vinegar with a little extra honey. If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs will work wonderfully with this sauce as they tend to be juicier.
❖ Storage: Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 1 month. Just make sure to reheat thoroughly before serving.
❖ Vegetarian Option: If you’re looking for a vegetarian version, you can swap out the chicken for tofu or tempeh. Just be sure to press out any excess moisture from the tofu before grilling it.
Keyword Japanese BBQ Sauce Chicken Recipe

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