The Best Ways to Cook Chicken in Japanese Style

When it comes to cooking chicken, Japanese cuisine offers a delightful range of flavors and techniques. From succulent grilled options to delicious simmered dishes, here are some of the best ways to prepare chicken in Japanese style.

1. Teriyaki Chicken

Teriyaki chicken is a classic dish known for its sweet and savory glaze. To create this dish:

  • Marinate boneless chicken thighs or breasts in a mixture of soy sauce, mirin, sake, and sugar for at least 30 minutes.
  • Grill or pan-sear the chicken until it is cooked through and caramelized on the outside.
  • Brush the reserved marinade onto the chicken during cooking for extra flavor.
  • Serve with steamed rice and garnish with sesame seeds and green onions.

2. Chicken Katsu

Chicken katsu is a delicious fried chicken cutlet that’s crispy on the outside and tender inside. Follow these steps to make it:

  • Pound chicken breasts to an even thickness.
  • Dredge the chicken in flour, dip it in beaten eggs, and coat it with panko breadcrumbs.
  • Fry the coated chicken in hot oil until golden brown and cooked through.
  • Slice and serve with tonkatsu sauce, shredded cabbage, and steamed rice.

3. Sukiyaki Chicken

Sukiyaki is a comforting one-pot dish that features chicken and vegetables simmered in a sweet soy sauce broth. To prepare:

  • In a large pot, combine soy sauce, sake, mirin, and sugar to create the sauce.
  • Add sliced chicken thighs and cook until they start to brown.
  • Add vegetables like tofu, mushrooms, and onions, simmering until everything is cooked and tender.
  • Serve with a raw egg for dipping if desired, providing an authentic experience.

4. Yaki Chicken (Grilled Chicken)

Yaki chicken refers to grilled chicken that can be enjoyed with various marinades. Here’s how to make it:

  • Marinate chicken in a mixture of soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and sake for at least an hour.
  • Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers for yakitori, or grill the pieces directly on the grill.
  • Cook until charred and cooked through, regularly brushing with marinade for added flavor.
  • Serve with a sprinkle of shichimi togarashi or as part of a rice bowl.

5. Chicken Shabu-Shabu

Chicken shabu-shabu is a healthy dish that features thinly sliced chicken boiled in a flavorful broth. To enjoy this dish:

  • Prepare a pot of kombu (seaweed) broth or clear chicken broth.
  • Slice boneless chicken breast or thighs as thinly as possible.
  • Bring the broth to a gentle boil and cook the chicken slices quickly, just until they turn white.
  • Serve with dipping sauces like ponzu or sesame sauce, along with fresh vegetables.

Conclusion

Japanese cuisine offers a variety of delicious ways to cook chicken, each bringing out unique flavors and textures. Whether you opt for the sweetness of teriyaki, the crunch of chicken katsu, or the comfort of sukiyaki, these methods are sure to delight your taste buds and impress your dining guests.

Explore these recipes and enjoy a taste of Japan right in your kitchen!