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Tsukune Meatball Skewers

Juicy Japanese chicken meatballs glazed with sweet-savory tare sauce, grilled on skewers until charred. Tender, flavorful, and finished with a sprinkle of sesame and scallion.

Total time
35 min
Servings
2
Calories
285
Protein
34g
Tsukune Meatball Skewers
japanesechickengrilledappetizerskewers

Ingredients

  • 300 g ground chicken
  • 30 g panko breadcrumbs
  • ½ whole egg
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • ½ tbsp fresh ginger, minced
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp mirin
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 1 tsp sesame seeds
  • 1 tbsp scallion, sliced

Instructions

  1. 1

    Soak 4 bamboo skewers in water for 20 minutes.

  2. 2

    Combine ground chicken, panko, egg, 1 tbsp soy sauce, ginger, and garlic in a bowl.

  3. 3

    Mix gently until just combined; do not overwork.

  4. 4

    Divide mixture into 8 equal portions.

  5. 5

    Form each portion into a ball, then roll gently between palms into an oval.

  6. 6

    Thread 2 meatballs onto each soaked skewer, gently pressing to secure.

  7. 7

    Whisk together 2 tbsp soy sauce, mirin, and sugar in a small bowl.

  8. 8

    Heat grill or grill pan to medium-high (400°F).

  9. 9

    Lightly oil the grill grate with a folded paper towel.

  10. 10

    Place meatball skewers on the grill.

  11. 11

    Grill for 3 minutes without moving.

  12. 12

    Rotate skewers 90 degrees; grill for 2 minutes.

  13. 13

    Turn skewers to second side; grill for 3 minutes.

  14. 14

    Brush glaze evenly onto all sides of meatballs.

  15. 15

    Continue grilling for 2 minutes until glaze caramelizes.

  16. 16

    Turn and brush second side with glaze.

  17. 17

    Grill for 2 minutes until second side is caramelized.

  18. 18

    Transfer skewers to a plate to cool for 1 minute.

  19. 19

    Sprinkle with sesame seeds and scallion.

  20. 20

    Serve immediately while still warm.

Tools you’ll need

  • 4 bamboo skewers
  • medium bowl
  • small bowl
  • grill or grill pan
  • meat thermometer (optional)
  • paper towels

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