Name: Japanese Chicken Meatball Skewers: Grilled Perfection at Home
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 1/4 cup water (helps to lighten the texture of the sauce); 1/4 cup sake (adds a subtle depth of flavor typical in Japanese cuisine); 1/2 cup mirin (a sweet rice wine that balances the savory elements beautifully); 1/2 cup soy sauce (gives that classic umami flavor you crave in Japanese dishes); 2 tsp brown sugar (packed tightly; brings sweetness to the rich sauce); 2–3 green onions/scallions (finely sliced; brightens the mixture with fresh flavor); 6 shiso leaves (perilla/ooba) (julienned; adds a refreshing twist); 1 lb ground chicken (a mix of white & dark meat delivers the juiciest results); 1 Tbsp toasted sesame oil (enhances the overall flavor with a nutty richness); 1 Tbsp miso (brings a comforting depth and umami); coarse sea salt (for sprinkling, to enhance the savory flavors); shichimi togarashi (optional, for a spicy kick)

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When I think of cozy evenings filled with laughter and delightful flavors, nothing quite beats the joy of grilling Japanese Chicken Meatball Skewers, or tsukune, in my backyard. The moment the skewers touch the grill, they start to sizzle, sending wafts of savory goodness through the air—it’s a scent that draws everyone in, leaving mouths watering in eager anticipation.

What I love about this recipe is how easy it is to prepare, yet it offers the kind of deliciousness that makes it feel like a special occasion. Packed with tender ground chicken and infused with aromatic ingredients like shiso and sesame oil, these skewers bring a taste of Japan right into your home. Plus, the rich yakitori sauce adds the perfect finishing touch, making every bite an experience you won’t forget.

Whether you’re planning a casual weeknight dinner or an impressive gathering with friends, these meatball skewers are sure to steal the spotlight. Grab those skewers, and let’s dive into this flavorful adventure together!

Why are Japanese Chicken Meatball Skewers irresistible?

Unforgettable Flavor: Each bite bursts with the harmonious blend of ground chicken, shiso, and toasted sesame oil, transporting your taste buds straight to Japan.
Quick to Prepare: With only 55 minutes total time, you can whip up these delicious skewers without spending hours in the kitchen.
Grill Masterpiece: Perfect for gatherings, the aroma sizzling on the grill will have everyone flocking to the buffet table.
Customizable Heat: Feel free to sprinkle in shichimi togarashi for an optional spicy kick, tailoring the skewers to your taste.
Crowd Favorite: Whether serving family or entertaining guests, these skewers are bound to impress and create lasting memories around the dining table.
For a complete dining experience, consider pairing them with Japanese rice for a truly authentic meal.

Japanese Chicken Meatball Skewers Ingredients

For the Sauce
water – ¼ cup, helps to lighten the texture of the sauce.
sake – ¼ cup, adds a subtle depth of flavor typical in Japanese cuisine.
mirin – ½ cup, a sweet rice wine that balances the savory elements beautifully.
soy sauce – ½ cup, gives that classic umami flavor you crave in Japanese dishes.
brown sugar – 2 tsp, packed tightly; brings sweetness to the rich sauce.
For the Tsukune
green onions/scallions – 2–3, finely sliced; brightens the mixture with fresh flavor.
shiso leaves (perilla/ooba) – 6, julienned; these unique herbs add a refreshing twist to your skewers.
ground chicken – 1 lb, a mix of white & dark meat delivers the juiciest results for the best Japanese Chicken Meatball Skewers.
toasted sesame oil – 1 Tbsp (plus more for hands); enhances the overall flavor with a nutty richness.
miso – 1 Tbsp (any type works), brings a comforting depth and umami to the mix.
coarse sea salt – for sprinkling, to enhance the savory flavors of your skewers.
shichimi togarashi – optional, for a spicy kick that can elevate the experience for heat lovers.

How to Make Japanese Chicken Meatball Skewers

Gather all ingredients on your countertop, ensuring everything is ready for a seamless cooking experience. This helps to keep your workflow smooth and enjoyable while making these delightful skewers!
Soak the bamboo skewers in water for 30 minutes to prevent them from burning during grilling. This simple step ensures your skewers stay intact as they cook.
Combine the yakitori sauce ingredients in a small saucepan: ¼ cup water, ¼ cup sake, ½ cup mirin, ½ cup soy sauce, and 2 tsp brown sugar. Stir gently to mix everything before proceeding to the next step.
Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat. Once boiling, lower the heat to a simmer and let it cook for about 30 minutes until the sauce thickens and is reduced by half. A rich aroma will fill your kitchen!
Remove the sauce from heat once it reaches the desired thickness. Set it aside to cool while you prepare the tsukune mixture.
Cook one-third of the ground chicken in an ungreased frying pan over medium heat, breaking it into small pieces until no longer pink. Transfer to a large bowl and let it cool completely.
Stack and roll up 6 shiso leaves, then cut them into thin julienned slices. This vibrant herb adds an exciting layer of flavor to your skewers.
Slice the green onions/scallions into thin pieces. Their freshness will complement the savory chicken beautifully.
Mix the cooled cooked chicken in the bowl with the remaining raw ground chicken, 1 Tbsp miso, and 1 Tbsp toasted sesame oil. Incorporate thoroughly for the best flavor.
Add the julienned shiso leaves to the mixture and knead well with your hands, ensuring even distribution of all ingredients.
Incorporate the sliced green onions into the mix, kneading again to ensure everything is blended well for optimal texture.
Knead the mixture by hand, folding it in a clockwise direction 30 times, then counterclockwise 30 times. This process helps achieve a delightful consistency needed for forming the skewers.
Divide the mixture into 8 equal portions. This ensures each skewer has a consistent size and cooking time.
Prepare a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil, placing a wire rack on top and brushing it lightly with cooking oil to prevent sticking.
Shape one portion of the chicken mixture into a long, oval patty (about 4 inches). A light coating of sesame oil on your hands helps mold without sticking.
Insert the soaked skewer along the center of the patty and seal the edges, forming a long cylindrical shape surrounding the skewer.
Lay the finished tsukune on the wire rack, ensuring they’re spaced apart to cook evenly.
Sprinkle coarse sea salt lightly over the meat, then prepare strips of aluminum foil to cover the skewer handles, keeping them safe from the heat.
Preheat your broiler on High (550ºF/288ºC), then place the baking sheet in the oven for 6 minutes. This will give your skewers a perfect initial sear.
Flip the tsukune after 6 minutes, returning them to the broiler for another 4 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165ºF (74ºC).
Brush the yakitori sauce generously on one side of the meat, then broil for an additional 45–60 seconds to create a sweet, caramelized coating.
Flip the skewers again, brush the other side with sauce, and broil for another 45–60 seconds until everything is sizzling and beautifully browned.
Transfer the skewers to a serving plate, brushing with extra sauce, and serve immediately. If desired, sprinkle with shichimi togarashi for that extra flair.

Optional: Garnish with extra shiso leaves for a fresh pop of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Japanese Chicken Meatball Skewers are perfect for meal prep, making weeknight dinners a breeze! You can prepare the meat mixture and shape the skewers up to 24 hours in advance. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate to maintain freshness. You can also make the yakitori sauce up to 3 days in advance; simply store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, just broil the skewers straight from the fridge, adding a couple of extra minutes if needed to ensure they’re heated through. With these simple steps, you can enjoy delicious homemade skewers with minimal effort on busy evenings!

What to Serve with Japanese Chicken Meatball Skewers?

Elevate your meal with perfect pairings that complement these delightful skewers and tantalize your senses.

Fluffy Sushi Rice: The soft texture and mild flavor absorb the savory yakitori sauce beautifully, creating a satisfying bite.
Grilled Asparagus: The smoky char from grilling adds a wonderful contrast to the melt-in-your-mouth chicken skewers. Plus, its fresh crunch brightens each mouthful.
Sesame Cucumber Salad: Refreshing and crisp, this salad offers a cool, tangy note that balances the savory richness of the meatballs. Great for cleansing the palate!
Teriyaki Glazed Brussels Sprouts: The caramelized sweetness pairs perfectly with the flavors of tsukune, making every bite a harmonious experience.
Miso Soup: A warm bowl of creamy miso brings comfort and depth, serving as a soothing backdrop for your skewers. The umami complements the meal flawlessly!
Japanese Beer or Sake: These beverages enhance the overall enjoyment, pairing well with the savory flavors while refreshing your palate.
Matcha Green Tea Ice Cream: End on a sweet note! The creaminess of the ice cream, paired with a hint of matcha, provides a lovely contrast to the savory skewers.
Spicy Edamame: Steamed and tossed with sea salt and chili flakes, these little beans add a punch of flavor and texture that makes the meal even more exciting!

How to Store and Freeze Japanese Chicken Meatball Skewers

Fridge: Store leftover skewers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Be sure to let them cool completely before sealing to avoid condensation.

Freezer: Wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, the Japanese Chicken Meatball Skewers can be frozen for up to 3 months. Allow them to cool before freezing.

Reheating: Thaw any frozen skewers overnight in the fridge. Reheat in the oven for 10-15 minutes at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and crisp.

Serving Suggestions: For best results, brush them with yakitori sauce before reheating to enhance flavor and juiciness.

Japanese Chicken Meatball Skewers Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine by customizing these skewers to delight your taste buds in new ways!

Dairy-Free: Substitute any creamy sauces or dairy-based marinades with coconut aminos for a rich and flavorful alternative.
Vegetarian Option: Use finely chopped mushrooms and grated tofu in place of ground chicken for a hearty plant-based skewer that still captures that Japanese flavor.
Herb Swaps: Try fresh basil or mint instead of shiso leaves; they’ll bring a different but equally refreshing twist to your skewers.
Spicy Delight: Add minced jalapeños or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce into the chicken mixture for an extra layer of heat.
Nutty Crunch: Mix in chopped walnuts or peanuts into the chicken mixture to add a delightful texture and nutty flavor that complements the savory components.
Gluten-Free: Swap out soy sauce for tamari or coconut aminos to keep your skewers gluten-free while not compromising on taste.
Smoky Flavor: Incorporate smoked paprika into the chicken mixture for a subtle smokiness that cheers up every bite.
Savory Sweetness: For a hint of sweetness, add finely chopped apples or pears to the chicken mix; they will caramelize beautifully when grilled.

Experimenting with these ideas can make your Japanese Chicken Meatball Skewers a cherished, go-to recipe with endless possibilities!

Expert Tips for Japanese Chicken Meatball Skewers

Mix Well: Ensure you knead the meat mixture thoroughly for even seasoning and a tender texture. This is crucial for making the best Japanese Chicken Meatball Skewers.

Don’t Skip Soaking: Soaking the bamboo skewers prevents them from burning and ensures they hold your delicious food together without any hassle.

Temperature Check: Always use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165ºF (74ºC) for safe consumption.

Avoid Overcrowding: Place the skewers apart on the wire rack to allow for even cooking and to prevent steaming them—this enhances the grilling experience.

Customize Spice Level: Adjust the amount of shichimi togarashi according to your taste preferences, adding just a sprinkle for an enjoyable kick without overwhelming the dish.

Japanese Chicken Meatball Skewers Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best ingredients for my Japanese Chicken Meatball Skewers?
Absolutely! For the freshest flavor, choose bright green scallions with no wilting and aromatic shiso leaves that are vibrant and not browning. When selecting ground chicken, look for a mix of white and dark meat for the juiciest skewers, ensuring optimal taste and texture.

What’s the best way to store leftover Japanese Chicken Meatball Skewers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s important to let the skewers cool completely before sealing them to prevent moisture build-up, which can make them soggy. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, warming them up will bring back their deliciousness!

Can I freeze these skewers, and if so, how?
Certainly! To freeze your Japanese Chicken Meatball Skewers, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil after they’ve cooled completely. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. For best results, label them with the date so you can keep track of freshness. Thaw them overnight in the fridge when you’re ready to eat!

What should I do if my skewers don’t seem to hold their shape?
No worries! If your skewers are falling apart, it could be due to not kneading the mixture enough. Be sure to knead the meat mixture well, approximately 60 times in total, as this helps the proteins bind together. Also, ensure your hands are lightly coated with sesame oil when shaping the patties, which can help them stay intact during cooking.

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Definitely! If you or your guests have allergies or dietary restrictions, it’s important to note that this recipe contains chicken, soy sauce (which has wheat), and miso (which may contain gluten). For a gluten-free option, you can substitute tamari for soy sauce. And while these skewers are delicious for humans, they should not be given to pets, especially due to the high salt content in soy sauce.

How can I make my skewers spicier?
If you enjoy a spicy kick, feel free to sprinkle some shichimi togarashi on your skewers before grilling. You can adjust the amount based on your preferred heat level. You can even incorporate some into the chicken mixture before shaping the skewers for a more uniform spiciness throughout!