Japanese BBQ Sauce Chicken Recipe typically involves marinating chicken pieces, often thighs, in a sweet and savoy Japanese barbecue sauce, then cooking them on a grill, in an oven, or in an air fryer.
I made this Japanese BBQ Sauce Chicken Recipe after watching a street vendor in Japan prepare it fresh over charcoal flames.
The Japanese BBQ Sauce Chicken Recipe blends soy, mirin, sake, and garlic to create deep taste. The main speciality is how tender the chicken becomes while soaking in the glaze.
I will now show up and guide you step by step through this Japanese BBQ Sauce Chicken Recipe.
Why Peoples Like Japanese BBQ Sauce Chicken Recipe?
People like Japanese BBQ Sauce Chicken Recipe because the taste is bold, rich, and satisfying. The Japanese BBQ Sauce Chicken Recipe blends sweet, salty, and smoky flavours that coat the chicken beautifully.
Each bite brings a balance of garlic, ginger, and umami that feels comforting and exciting. Cooking it is easy, and the results feel like something from a good restaurant.
The glaze on the chicken looks tempting and tastes even better. Families enjoy it, and it quickly becomes a favourite at home.
How To Prepare Japanese BBQ Sauce Chicken Recipe?
Recipe Overview
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Course: Main Dish
Cuisine: Japanese-Inspired
Yield: Serves 4
Kitchen Utensils
- Mixing bowls
- Sharp knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Non-stick skillet or grill pan
- Tongs or spatula
- Small saucepan (for sauce/glaze, if done separately)
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- ½ cup Japanese BBQ sauce
- ¼ cup dark soy sauce
- 2 tbsp mirin
- 2 tbsp sake
- 2 cloves garlic, minced and 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tbsp sugar or honey
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp toasted sesame oil
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 scallions (green onions), white and green parts separated, thinly sliced
How To Make Japanese BBQ Sauce Chicken Recipe?
Step 1. Get The Chicken Ready
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels, then season both sides lightly with salt and pepper. Set them aside while you make the sauce.
Step 2. Mix The Sauce
In a small bowl, combine Japanese BBQ sauce, dark soy sauce, mirin, sake, minced garlic, grated ginger, sugar or honey, and a splash of rice vinegar. Stir until everything’s well blended.
Step 3. Cook The Chicken
Heat a bit of olive oil in a skillet or grill pan over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add the chicken and cook for about 5 to 6 minutes on each side, or until the outside is golden brown and the inside is cooked through (aim for 165°F or 74°C). Take the chicken out and let it rest on a plate.
Step 4. Simmer The Sauce
Turn the heat down low and pour the sauce into the same pan. Let it bubble gently for a couple of minutes. If it starts to look too thick, add 2–3 tablespoons of water to loosen it up.
Step 5. (Optional) Thicken It Up
If you want a thicker, glaze like sauce, stir together a little cornstarch and water, then add it to the pan. Keep stirring until the sauce thickens this should take just a minute or two.
Step 6. Coat The Chicken
Put the chicken back in the pan and spoon the sauce over it. Let it cook for another minute or two so it soaks up some of that flavour.
Step 7. Finish And Serve
Drizzle a little toasted sesame oil over the top. Sprinkle with sliced green onions (both white and green parts). Serve warm.
Note
If you use store bought Japanese BBQ sauce check nutrition label. Brands like Bachan’s contain around 8 g sugar and 550 mg sodium per tablespoon.
Adjust quantities based on dietary goals or substitute homemade sauce for better control.
Nutrition Facts Per Serving
| Nutrition | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 kcal |
| Protein | 28 g |
| Fat | 10 g |
| Carbohydrates | 25 g |
| Sugar | 18 g |
Helpful Tips Japanese BBQ Sauce Chicken Recipe
➣ Add a splash of water if the sauce thickens too quickly while simmering.
➣ Pat the chicken dry before cooking to help it sear better and hold flavour.
➣ Let the sauce simmer gently to avoid burning the sugar and keep the flavour balanced.
➣ Use fresh garlic and ginger for a deeper, more authentic taste.
➣ Rest the chicken after cooking to keep it juicy and let the flavours settle.
Usage Suggestions
1. Serve over steamed white rice to soak up the rich sauce.
2. Slice and use in a bento lunch box for a flavourful main dish.
3. Wrap in lettuce leaves for a light and fresh meal option.
4. Use as a filling for rice bowls topped with a soft-boiled egg and pickled veggies.
5. Pair with stir fried vegetables for a balanced and colourful plate.
How To Make Japanese BBQ Sauce Chicken Recipe Tastier?
➢ Marinate the chicken in the sauce for at least 30 minutes before cooking to deepen the flavour.
➢ Use high quality Japanese BBQ sauce made from natural ingredients for a richer taste.
➢ Grill the chicken instead of pan-frying to add a light smoky flavour.
➢ Add a small amount of toasted sesame oil to the sauce while simmering for extra depth.
➢ Garnish with freshly chopped scallions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds before serving.
How To Store Leftovers?
Let the chicken cool completely before storing. Place the leftovers in an airtight container to keep the moisture and flavour locked in.
Store in the refrigerator and use within three days for best taste. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if the Japanese BBQ Sauce Chicken Recipe thickens too much.
Avoid overheating to keep the chicken tender. Freezing also works well, just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for another quick and tasty meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead Of Breasts For This Recipe?
Yes, chicken thighs work well and stay juicy during cooking.
What Can I Use If I Don’t Have Mirin?
A mix of rice vinegar and a bit of sugar makes a good substitute.
How Long Does The Sauce Take To Thicken?
Usually around 1–2 minutes after adding the cornstarch slurry.
Is Japanese BBQ Sauce Spicy?
Most versions are mild, but some brands may have a hint of heat.
What Sides Go Well With This Dish?
Steamed rice, sauteed vegetables, miso soup, or pickled cucumbers work nicely.
Conclusion
This Japanese BBQ Sauce Chicken Recipe was easy to make and turned out absolutely delicious. I really enjoyed the process and the result was a success.
I hope this inspires you to try it too it’s simple, satisfying, and full of bold flavor. Give it a go soon, and once you’ve made it, let me know how delicious it turned out for you. I’m sure you’ll enjoy it just as much.
Here Are Some Quick BBQ Sauce Recipes You Might Enjoy
Easy Homemade Blackberry BBQ Sauce Recipe
Wojapi BBQ Sauce Recipe || Best Here
Hickory And Brown Sugar BBQ Sauce | Sweet & Smoky
Ol West BBQ Sauce Recipe || Full of Flavour
Japanese BBQ Sauce Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels, then season both sides lightly with salt and pepper. Set them aside while you make the sauce.
- In a small bowl, combine Japanese BBQ sauce, dark soy sauce, mirin, sake, minced garlic, grated ginger, sugar or honey, and a splash of rice vinegar. Stir until everything’s well blended.
- Heat a bit of olive oil in a skillet or grill pan over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add the chicken and cook for about 5 to 6 minutes on each side, or until the outside is golden brown and the inside is cooked through (aim for 165°F or 74°C). Take the chicken out and let it rest on a plate.
- Turn the heat down low and pour the sauce into the same pan. Let it bubble gently for a couple of minutes. If it starts to look too thick, add 2–3 tablespoons of water to loosen it up.
- If you want a thicker, glaze like sauce, stir together a little cornstarch and water, then add it to the pan. Keep stirring until the sauce thickens this should take just a minute or two.
- Put the chicken back in the pan and spoon the sauce over it. Let it cook for another minute or two so it soaks up some of that flavour.
- Drizzle a little toasted sesame oil over the top. Sprinkle with sliced green onions (both white and green parts). Serve warm.
Notes
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320 kcal | Protein: 28 g | Fat: 10 g | Carbohydrates: 25 g | Sugar: 18 g“Hi, I’m Samia, a passionate recipe creator with 5 years of experience in crafting delicious, unique dishes. My love for cooking has led me to explore a variety of cuisines, combining flavors to create memorable meals for every occasion. Whether it’s a simple weeknight dinner or an elaborate feast, I believe in making every dish special. Join me on my culinary journey as I share easy-to-follow recipes and tips that will inspire your cooking and bring joy to your kitchen!”