The Top Poultry Meals You Can Enjoy While Traveling in Japan

Traveling in Japan offers a delightful culinary experience, especially for poultry lovers. Japanese cuisine features a variety of tasty chicken dishes that are not only popular among locals but also favored by travelers. Here is a selection of the top poultry meals you can enjoy while exploring the beautiful landscapes of Japan.

1. Yakitori
Yakitori, which translates to 'grilled chicken', is a must-try when visiting Japan. This dish consists of bite-sized pieces of chicken skewered and grilled over charcoal, often seasoned with salt or coated in a savory tare sauce made from soy sauce, sake, and mirin. Whether you enjoy it at a local izakaya or a street vendor, each skewer is bursting with flavor, making it a cherished street food.

2. Chicken Katsu
Chicken katsu is the poultry version of the well-known pork katsu. This dish features a breaded and deep-fried chicken cutlet, served with a tangy sauce and often accompanied by shredded cabbage and steamed rice. It offers a satisfying crunch on the outside that gives way to juicy, tender chicken on the inside. You can find chicken katsu in many restaurants and cafes across Japan.

3. Oyakodon
Oyakodon is a comforting rice bowl dish that combines chicken and eggs in a delicious and savory sauce. The name itself translates to 'parent-and-child donburi' due to its key ingredients of chicken and eggs. Cooked together with onions in a seasoned broth, it's served atop a steaming bowl of rice. This hearty meal is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner while you’re on the go.

4. Torikatsu
Similar to chicken katsu, torikatsu uses thicker cuts of chicken that are pounded flat and breaded before being fried. Served with a side of shredded cabbage and often accompanied by a rich tonkatsu sauce, it’s a filling meal that will keep you energized during your travels. Torikatsu is generally served in restaurants that specialize in katsu dishes.

5. Nagoya Cochin Chicken
While exploring Nagoya, don’t miss the opportunity to try Nagoya Cochin chicken, a local breed known for its rich flavor and tender texture. This chicken can be enjoyed in various forms, including sashimi, grilled, or in a hotpot. Its unique taste is often attributed to the free-range farming methods used in its production.

6. Yaki Niku Chicken
This grilled meat dish features chicken marinated in a savory sauce of soy sauce, sesame oil, and garlic, then grilled to perfection. Often served with a mix of vegetables, yaki niku chicken is a delightful meal that can be enjoyed in many restaurants throughout Japan. It pairs well with a side of rice or lettuce wraps for a complete dining experience.

7. Tori Soba
Tori soba is a comforting and warm noodle soup that includes chicken and soba (buckwheat noodles) in a savory broth. This dish is particularly popular during colder months and is a delicious way to enjoy the rich flavors of Japanese chicken cuisine. Tori soba can be found in various ramen shops across the country.

With so many delicious poultry dishes to try, Japan is a paradise for chicken lovers. From street food to fine dining, these meal options provide a taste of local culture and flavors that make traveling in Japan a memorable experience.