The lacquered look comes from building the tare in layers: grill the skewers most of the way dry over high heat first, then dip and grill, dip and grill, three or four times, so each coat caramelizes onto the last. Brush it all on early and the sugar just burns black before the chicken cooks.
By Vince Gonzalez · Published July 2026 · Sourcing verified 5 Jul 2026
Prep30 min
Cook15 min
Makes4 servings
CuisineJapanese
Cost$$
Dairy-free
Contains gluten · soy
Make it gluten-free: swap in tamari instead of soy sauce (check the other labels too).
The Ingredients — and where to get them
Cook for4servings
Chicken thighs
Boneless thigh cut in bite pieces; it stays juicy over fierce heat. Pasture-raised thighs have the best texture.
Yes — this is exactly what an air fryer does well. Work in a single layer so the air can move, and shake or flip halfway for even crisping. It runs a touch faster than the oven, so check early.
Can you freeze Yakitori? — Yes
Yes — it freezes well. Cool it fully, portion into airtight containers, and it keeps a few months; thaw in the fridge and reheat gently.
Can you make Yakitori ahead of time? — Prep ahead
Best fried to order — the crunch fades if it sits. Do the breading or shaping ahead and cook it fresh when you serve.
Is Yakitori gluten-free? — Not as written
Not as written — it contains gluten. Make it gluten-free: swap in tamari instead of soy sauce (check the other labels too).
Is Yakitori vegan? — No
No — it contains meat, so it isn’t vegetarian or vegan.
Community Notes
Cooked it? Changed something that worked? Leave a note for the next person — first-name basis, no account.
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