Best Yakitori Grill For Your Home Kitchen (2023 Guide)

Have you ever wanted to try something new? Something exotic, something that will make your taste buds sing? If so, then you should give yakitori a try! Yakitori is a type of Japanese barbeque that is gaining popularity in the United States. It’s a delicious and healthy way to enjoy a meal with friends and family. So, if you’re looking for the best yakitori grill around, then you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we’ll be exploring some of the top-rated grills and giving our opinion on which one is the absolute best.

Yakitori grilling has been popular in Japan since the Edo period but has recently become more popular in America due to its unique flavor and health benefits. From juicy chicken skewers to flavorful vegetables cooked over an open flame – there are endless possibilities when it comes to yakitori grilling! Whether you’re looking for something quick and easy or an elaborate dinner party menu, there’s sure to be a perfect yakitori grill out there for you.

So grab your chopsticks and get ready to dig into some of the best yakitori grills out there! We’ll be exploring everything from traditional charcoal grills to modern electric models, so no matter what your preferences are, we’ve got you covered! So let’s get started – it’s time to find the perfect grill for your next yakitori feast!

Definition Of Yakitori

A typical Yakitori dish
A typical Yakitori dish

Yakitori is a traditional Japanese style of grilling chicken skewers over a charcoal grill. This type of grill has been around for centuries and is still popular in Japan today. The typical yakitori grill uses white charcoal which gives the chicken an unbeatable smoky flavor. It’s also much hotter than other types of grills, so it cooks the chicken quickly and evenly.

The most common type of yakitori is made with chicken breast, but there are wide varieties of yakitori available as well. You can find skewers with beef, pork, fish, mushrooms, and even vegetables. Yakitori chefs often soak the skewers in water before grilling them to prevent them from burning or sticking to the grill.

When you’re ready to enjoy some authentic yakitori, look no further than the traditional Japanese grill! With its intense heat and fragrant smoke, it’s sure to give your taste buds something special! And don’t forget to explore all of the different types of yakitori that are out there – you might just find your new favorite!

Types Of Grills

The Best Yakitori Grill is the one that suits your needs
The Best Yakitori Grill is the one that suits your needs

When it comes to yakitori grilling, there are several different types of grills to choose from. From hibachi and ceramic grills, to charcoal and gas grills, each one offers its own advantages. Let’s take a look at some of the most popular yakitori grills on the market.

First up is the hibachi grill. This type of grill is typically made out of cast iron, which makes it great for searing meats and vegetables. The adjustable vents make it easy to control the heat and keep your food perfectly cooked. Plus, they’re small enough to fit on any tabletop or countertop.

Next is the konro grill. These are made out of clay or ceramic material and are perfect for slow-cooking meats and vegetables over low heat for hours at a time. They also come with adjustable vents so you can get that perfect smoky flavor without having to worry about burning your food.

Lastly, we have electric grills, stainless steel grills, and gas grills. Electric grills are great for indoor use, as they don’t produce any smoke like charcoal or gas models do. Stainless steel models work well outdoors because they can handle higher temperatures than other materials while still being lightweight enough to move around easily. Gas models are great if you want to cook quickly without having to wait for charcoal or wood coals to heat up first. All three types offer adjustable vents so you can get just the right amount of smokey flavor in your meals.

No matter what type of yakitori grill you choose, you’re sure to have delicious meals every time! With so many options available, there’s no excuse not to fire up your favourite kind of grill and start cooking some tasty yakitori today!

Size Of Grill

The size of the grill you choose is an important consideration when making yakitori. The amount of cooking space you need depends on how many pieces of chicken you want to cook at once. A good rule of thumb is about 40 square inches per chicken piece. So, if you want to cook 8 pieces of chicken, then look for a grill with 320 square inches or more of cooking space.

When it comes to choosing the type of grill grate, it’s best to go with one that’s heat-resistant and made from stainless steel. This will help ensure that your yakitori becomes crispy and delicious without burning up the skewers.

If you prefer a more traditional approach, a charcoal briquette grill is also suitable for making yakitori. This type of grill has excellent heat distribution and allows you to adjust the temperature easily by adding or removing briquettes as needed. Plus, the smoky flavor imparted by charcoal briquettes adds a delicious layer to Japanese food like yakitori!

No matter which type of grill you choose, make sure it has enough room on the cooking surface to accommodate all your yakitori skewers without overcrowding them. After all, no one wants soggy chicken!

Cooking Method

Cooking on a yakitori grill is an art form. You can use either a type of charcoal or electric yakitori grills to get the perfect grilled chicken. If you’re looking for a more intense flavor, try using a yakiniku grill. The best yakitori grills have a square inch cooking area that provides enough space to cook multiple pieces of chicken at once. Plus, they provide excellent heat control so you can properly char and crisp up your chicken tail every time.

When searching for the perfect yakitori grill, look for one with ceramic nonstick grills surface. This will help make cleaning up after cooking Japanese chicken yakitori easier than ever before. It also ensures that no nasty burnt bits stick to the grill, making it much simpler to clean bur after each use.

When it comes to cooking on a yakitori grill, it’s all about getting the perfect balance between heat and taste. With the right technique and equipment, you can create amazing dishes with ease. So find yourself a quality yakitori grill today and start experimenting!

Fuel Options

Charcoal briquettes are used in a traditional Japannese yakitori grill
Charcoal briquettes are used in a traditional Japannese yakitori grill
Fuel SourceDescription
Charcoal BriquettesA charcoal grate is usually made of metal, is heated by hot charcoal briquettes, and is used in traditional Japanese bincho grills. Charcoal grills provide a smoky flavor and are ideal for outdoor use. They require more effort to set up and clean up, but many consider the flavor to be worth it.
Electric Fuel SourceAn electric fuel source is easy to use and great for those who want an effortless experience. It’s also the most affordable option. Electric grills are ideal for indoor use and can be used on tabletops. They don’t provide the same smoky flavor as charcoal grills, but they’re a convenient and hassle-free option.
Gas Yakitori GrillA gas grill uses propane or natural gas as a fuel source and can be used with wood chips to add smoky flavors to grilled food. Gas grills are easy to use, heat up quickly, and are ideal for outdoor use. They don’t provide the same smoky flavor as charcoal grills, but they’re a convenient and hassle-free option. They require a propane or natural gas tank, which can be an additional expense.

If you want a more natural alternative, regular charcoal or even hot charcoal works well too. Charcoal briquettes will give your yakitori that smoky flavor without the hassle of having to light a fire every time you want to cook. And if you don’t feel like grilling at all, there’s always the option of using a wood base such as mesquite or hickory for smoking your yakitori instead.

No matter which type of fuel you decide to use, it’s important that you select one that fits your needs so that you can get the best results from your yakitori grill. With the right fuel source, you can be sure that whatever dish you prepare on your grill will come out tasting delicious!

Accessories

When it comes to grilling a perfect yakitori, having the right accessories can make all the difference. From temperature control to grease management, having the right tools will help you create complex flavors and ensure that your meal is cooked evenly. Here are some of the essential items you need to get started:

Grill:

Makeshift Yakitori Style Grill – If you’re looking for a more affordable option, then creating your own makeshift yakitori grill is a great way to go. All you need is a sturdy stand, some skewers, and charcoal or an open flame.

Special Grill – For those who want to get serious about their yakitori grilling, investing in a special yakitori grill with adjustable temperature control and nonstick grill surface is an ideal choice. Look for one with a stainless steel exterior for best results.

Tools:

Soapy Water – To keep your grill clean and free from dangerous bacteria, use hot soapy water after each use. This will also help prevent food residue from sticking and making future cleanings easier.

Shishito Peppers – While not technically a tool, these small peppers are an important part of making authentic yakitori dishes. Make sure to have plenty on hand!

No matter if you opt for a makeshift DIY version or invest in a special purpose built grill, having the right accessories will help you make delicious yakitori that everyone can enjoy. A bit of preparation goes a long way towards ensuring that the end result is perfect.

Safety Features

Having discussed the accessories, it’s time to talk about the safety features of a best yakitori grill. The most important feature is that it has a wooden base, which will keep the charcoal away from direct contact with your table top. That wooden base also comes with a ceramic coating, so you don’t have to worry about any heat transferring to your table top.

The adjustable windows and air vents are also great safety features because they regulate the heat distribution, making sure it’s evenly distributed throughout your best yakitori grill. The air vents also help with heat circulation and excellent heat retention, allowing you to cook for longer without having to constantly adjust the temperature settings.

Finally, infrared heating technology helps reduce the amount of smoke and clean bur that are produced during cooking – meaning you can cook delicious yakitori in a safe environment. All these features together make for an incredibly safe best yakitori grill that everyone can enjoy without worrying about any potential hazards.

Cleaning And Maintenance

Cleaning your Yakitori grill is just as important as how you cook your food. If you want to keep it in top condition, maintenance should be a regular part of your grilling game. The best way to maintain your portable grill is to clean it after each use, just like any other Japanese cuisine grill.

A freestanding yakitori grill is ideal for outdoor grilling and can easily be folded away when not in use. It has adjustable air vents which allow for wider cooking options and more precise control over the cooking process. However, these features also make it harder to clean since the ash and grease must be removed from all the nooks and crannies. To properly clean the inside of your foldable charcoal grill, use a brush or vacuum cleaner with a soft bristle attachment.

When cleaning the outside of your Japanese yakitori grill, use only dish soap and warm water to remove any stubborn bits of food residue or grease that may have splattered onto its surface during cooking. Be sure to finish off by wiping down the exterior with a cloth dipped in vegetable oil to protect it from rusting. With proper care and maintenance, your Yakitori grill will serve you well for many years to come!

Price Range

Once you’ve got the cleaning and maintenance of your yakitori grill sorted, it’s time to look at price range. Depending on your budget and needs, there are hundreds of options to choose from! If you’re looking for something basic, Kosei Grills are a good option. They’re easy to transport with their flatpack design and come in around $20-$30. Weber Go Anywhere Charcoal Grills can also be a great choice when you need more portability. And if you’re looking for more power, Grill Sports offer up to 10,000 BTUs of cooking power.

For those who want a hassle-free cooking experience, skewers like Chicken Fillets can be an excellent choice. You can buy them pre-made or assemble them yourself at home – either way they give you plenty of options without too much effort! And if you’re feeling adventurous, there are even grilling baskets that let you cook almost anything over the fire.

No matter what type of yakitori grill you choose, there is always going to be a base price that comes with it. It all depends on what kind of features and add-ons you need to have the best grilling experience possible. Do some research and find the right one for your budget – but don’t forget that quality matters too! With the right yakitori grill in hand, all that’s left is to fire up the coals and get cooking!

Popular Brands

When it comes to choosing the right yakitori grill, there are lots of popular brands on the market. Many of them boast a Japanese exterior and produce amazing grilled chicken skin and chicken thigh – just what you’re looking for in a yakitori grill.

BrandHeat RangeGrilling Style
IwataniMedium-HighCharcoal Briquettes
KagamiMediumClean Burn
KofukuMedium-HighCharcoal Briquettes
KohitsujiMediumClean Burn

The heat range for these grills varies from medium to medium-high, depending on the brand. Iwatani and Kofuku have both adopted the traditional charcoal briquettes grilling style, while Kagami and Kohitsuji have opted for a clean burn technique using natural gas or propane. It really depends on your preference; if you’re looking for that classic smoky flavor, go with charcoal briquettes!

For those who want to get back to basics, there’s nothing like embracing Japan’s centuries-old tradition of yakitori grilling. With any of these top brands, you’ll be sure to get delicious results every time!

The Best Yakitori Grill of 2023

Are you looking for the best yakitori grill to enjoy delicious Japanese-style grilled food at home? With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the perfect one. To help you make an informed decision, we have compiled a list of the 6 best yakitori grills of 2023, with the top picks and reviews for each grill, including features, pros and cons, and customer reviews.

Best Overall: Isumer Portable Charcoal Grill

Isumer Portable Charcoal Grill
ISUMER Travel Porcelain-Enameled Charcoal Grill, 16-Inch

The Isumer Portable Charcoal Grill is the best overall yakitori grill of 2023. It has a compact design and is made of high-quality materials, including stainless steel, that ensure durability. With a grilling area of 170 square inches, it is ideal for small gatherings. Its top features include easy-to-use air vents for temperature control, easy assembly and cleaning, and a durable construction. However, it doesn’t come with a lid, which may be a downside for some, and some customers reported uneven heating.

Best Tabletop Yakitori Grill: The Bincho Grill GR610S

The Bincho Grill GR610S
The Bincho Grill GR610S Yakitori Tabletop Charcoal

The Bincho Grill GR610S is the best tabletop yakitori grill of 2023. It has a stylish design and is made of high-quality materials such as cast iron and stainless steel. With a grilling area of 193 square inches, it can cook several skewers at once. Its top features include a removable ash tray for easy cleaning, an adjustable grill height, and a durable construction. However, the unit’s metal legs can get hot, which is a potential safety concern, and some customers reported that it is heavy and difficult to move.

Best Freestanding Yakitori Grill: Ironwalls Charcoal Kebab Grill

Ironwalls Charcoal Kebab Grill
Ironwalls Charcoal Kebab Grill

The Ironwalls Charcoal Kebab Grill is the best freestanding yakitori grill of 2023. It is sturdy and versatile, with a large grilling area of 640 square inches. It can be adjusted to different heights to suit different types of food, and the stainless steel construction makes it very durable. Its top features include easy assembly, a temperature gauge for precise cooking, and an adjustable ash pan. However, its size and weight make it less portable than other models, and it may take more time and effort to assemble.

Best Gas Yakitori Grill: Nomadiq Portable Propane Gas Grill

Nomadiq Portable Propane Gas Grill
Nomadiq Portable Propane Gas Grill

The Nomadiq Portable Propane Gas Grill is the best gas yakitori grill of 2023. It is convenient and portable, coming with a convenient carrying case. It has a large grilling area of 226 square inches and is very easy to use, making it ideal for beginners. Its top features include a push-button ignition, a temperature control system, and a compact design. However, the propane tank is not included, and it may not be as flavorful as charcoal grills.

Stylish Tabletop Charcoal Yakitori Grill: Noto Dia Shichirin Hida Konro

Noto Dia Shichirin Hida Konro
Noto Dia Shichirin Hida Konro

The Noto Dia Shichirin Hida Konro is the most stylish tabletop charcoal yakitori grill of 2023. It is made of high-quality materials such as diatomaceous earth and ceramic, and it has a traditional Japanese design. With a grilling area of 58 square inches, it is ideal for small gatherings. Its top features include quick heat-up time, an easy-to-clean interior, and a portable and compact design. However, it has a small size and may take longer to cook food than larger grills.

Best Electric Yakitori Grill: Zojirushi Indoor Electric Grill

Zojirushi EB-CC15 Indoor Electric Grill
Zojirushi EB-CC15 Indoor Electric Grill

The Zojirushi Indoor Electric Grill is the best electric yakitori grill of 2023. It is easy to use and has an adjustable temperature control that ensures precise cooking. With a grilling area of 130 square inches, it is ideal for small spaces and indoor use. Its top features include a non-stick surface for easy cleaning, a removable drip tray, and a compact design. However, some customers reported that it takes longer to heat up than other models, and it may not give the same smoky flavor as charcoal grills.

In short, the best yakitori grill for you will depend on your needs, preferences, and budget. With our list of the 6 best yakitori grills of 2023, we hope we have provided you with the information you need to make an informed decision. Remember to consider factors such as size, fuel source, and materials, and always look for a model that meets your specific requirements. Happy grilling!

Benefits Of A Yakitori Grill

Yakitori grilling is the way to go if you want to enjoy some of the best tasting chicken pieces and other types of food. With a yakitori grill, you can cook up all sorts of flavorful meats with ease. The grilling area is portable and light, making it easy to take on the go. Plus, the grilling temperature is adjustable so you can get just the right amount of heat for your dishes.

For durability and convenience, many people opt for a stainless steel unit that’s lightweight and good at retaining grease. Charcoal is often the preferred fuel source as it helps to bring out the natural flavors even more. And when it comes time to clean up afterwards, a yakitori grill won’t leave too much of a bur in your pocketbook.

The benefits of using a yakitori grill are clear – you get juicy and delicious grilled meats without having to worry about sacrificing quality or taste! No matter what type of outdoor cooking you’re after, this style of grilling will help make sure that each meal comes out perfect every time.

Disadvantages Of A Yakitori Grill

Although the yakitori grill has many benefits, it also has some drawbacks. One downside is that a yakitori grill is usually only meant for outdoor use. This means that if you want to enjoy the delicious flavors of a yakitori meal indoors, you’ll need to get an indoor grilling option. Additionally, if you’re looking for a camping grill, the yakitori grill might not be your best choice. Although some models have detachable legs so they can be transported more easily, they still aren’t as portable as other camping grills on the market.

Another disadvantage of a yakitori grill is its size. If you want to make sure that your food will cook evenly and quickly, then you’ll need an ideal sized grilling surface. Unfortunately, this isn’t possible with a yakitori grill since it’s so small. Lastly, although there are some decorative options available for yakitori grills, most of them don’t offer much in terms of design or aesthetic appeal.

Overall, while a yakitori grill can definitely help enhance your cooking experience outdoors or at home, it may not be the best option for those who want something that offers more portability or versatility when it comes to grilling in different settings. Additionally, its smaller size doesn’t always allow for even cooking and its lack of decorative options doesn’t give users much in terms of design freedom either.

Professional Tips For Using A Yakitori Grill

Grilling on a yakitori grill is a great way to get the perfect sear on your meat and veggies. With more than 5 million yakitori grills sold in the US each year, there’s no doubt that this type of cooking has become popular. Here are some tips for getting the most out of your yakitori grill:

  • Check the heating elements – Most yakitori grills have two types of heating elements: gas-powered and electric. Make sure to check which type of unit you have when buying a new one. The largest units can reach up to around 60,000 BTUs of heating power, so you know it’s going to get hot!
  • Know your grilling area – Yakitori grills don’t take up much space, but make sure you know how much room you have for grilling. If you’re planning on taking a road trip or boat trip with your grill, then opt for a smaller unit as they are more portable.
  • Choose decorative options – You don’t just have to use a basic yakitori grill; there are many decorative options available that will add character to your backyard or patio. Look for ones made from colorful materials like stainless steel or copper and choose one that complements the decor in your outdoor space.
  • Experiment with different varieties of meat – Yakitori grills make it easy to experiment with different types of meat, like chicken, beef, pork, lamb, and even fish. You can also try out different marinades and sauces to create unique flavor combinations that everyone will love! And when you’re done cooking, don’t forget to clean off any burnt bits from the bur – it’ll help keep your grill looking good as new!

Recipes For The Yakitori Grill

Yakitori grills are a great way to bring the authentic experience of Japanese dining to your backyard. With an innovative design and a spacious grilling area, it’s easy to push the boundaries of your backyard family or party. Whether you’re cooking up some mouth-watering yakitori skewers or sautéed vegetables, these grills make the perfect addition to any outdoor gathering.

When using a Yakitori grill, there are several things to consider when selecting the right charcoal briquettes. Look for brands with a clean burn rate and excellent grill performance. For those looking for more flavor, there are even flavor enhanced options available. Whichever option you choose, be sure to keep safety in mind and follow all instructions provided by the manufacturer.

Here are some recipes, advice, and recommendations for you:

Classic Chicken Yakitori Skewers:

  • Soak the skewers in water for 30 minutes to prevent them from burning.
  • Cut chicken into bite-size pieces and skewer them.
  • Brush the chicken with sauce made from soy sauce, sake, mirin, and sugar.
  • Grill the chicken on a Japanese yakitori grill, turning the skewers occasionally until they’re fully cooked.
  • Serve with green onions and shichimi togarashi (Japanese seven-spice blend).

Yakitori-Style Shishito Peppers:

  • Grill shishito peppers on a Japanese yakitori grill until they’re blistered and slightly charred.
  • Sprinkle with salt and serve as a tasty appetizer or side dish.

Japanese Grilled Chicken Breast:

  • Cut chicken breast into thin slices and marinate them in a mixture of soy sauce, sake, mirin, ginger, and garlic.
  • Grill the chicken on a Japanese yakitori grill over medium heat until fully cooked.
  • Serve with rice, steamed vegetables, and a side of dipping sauce.

Yakitori-Style Chicken Thigh Skewers:

  • Cut chicken thigh into bite-size pieces and skewer them.
  • Brush the chicken with sauce made from soy sauce, sake, mirin, and sugar.
  • Grill the chicken on a Japanese yakitori grill, turning the skewers occasionally until they’re fully cooked.
  • Serve with green onions and shichimi togarashi.

Advice and Tips:

  • Use a traditional Japanese yakitori grill for an authentic cooking experience.
  • Consider using white charcoal or binchotan for a natural alternative to regular charcoal.
  • Soak your skewers in water to prevent them from burning on the grill.
  • Use an adjustable vent to control the temperature and heat distribution of your grill.
  • For easy cleanup, choose a grill with a ceramic coating or nonstick grill surface.
  • Use a portable grill for a camping trip or outdoor excursion.
  • Experiment with different types of meats, such as chicken tail or chicken skin, for a wider variety of flavors.

Recommended Grills:

  • Konro Grill: A traditional Japanese charcoal grill with excellent heat retention and heat distribution.
  • Kosei Grill: A Japanese-style grill with adjustable air vents for temperature control.
  • Weber Go-Anywhere Charcoal Grill: A portable, compact grill with a large cooking surface.
  • Flatpack Grill: A lightweight, foldable charcoal grill that’s easy to transport.
  • Infrared Heating Yakitori Grill: A grill with infrared heating technology that provides hassle-free cooking.

Recommended Fuel Sources:

  • White Charcoal: A natural alternative to regular charcoal that burns cleanly and evenly.
  • Electric Fuel Source: A convenient and clean-burning option for indoor grilling.
  • Natural Flavored Charcoal Briquettes: A preferred fuel source for its natural flavors and clean burn.

No matter what type of grill you choose, Yakitori grills are sure to add an extra bit of fun and excitement to your next outdoor gathering. You can create delicious dishes that the whole family will enjoy while still enjoying an authentic experience from the comforts of your own backyard!

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Once you’ve mastered the recipes for your yakitori grill, it’s time to get a bit more technical and tackle any common issues you might be facing. Whether you have a compact unit or one with ample inches of cooking area, there are some basic troubleshooting techniques that can help.

The first step is to make sure you’re using the right size skewers – typically around 10 inches wide. If they’re too long or too short, they won’t cook correctly and could cause problems with your grill. Additionally, if your skewers are made from bamboo or other materials that don’t conduct heat well, they may not cook evenly.

Another thing to consider is the amount of time that you have on the grill. If you’re trying to feed a large group of people in just a few hours of grill time, it may not be enough. A base grille with at least 20-24 inches of cooking surface can usually handle 4-5 people at once and still provide enough food for everyone without having to rush through the grilling process.

Having a compact unit also has its advantages – it’s ideal for 1-2 people and takes up minimal space on your patio or balcony. Plus, since most of these units heat up faster than larger grills, it’ll save you valuable time when grilling small pieces like yakitori skewers. So whether you decide to go big or small, there’s an option for everyone!

Bottom Line

I’ve come to the conclusion that a yakitori grill is an amazing kitchen appliance. It’s more than just a simple grill – it’s a tool of culinary magic and with the right knowledge and techniques, you can create some truly delicious dishes. With its small size, versatile fuel options and different cooking methods, it’s no wonder why so many people are choosing to add a yakitori grill to their collection of cooking tools.

Using a yakitori grill is like taking part in an ancient ritual. The smell of sizzling meat, the sound of crackling flames – these are things that have been around for centuries, connecting us to our ancestors in ways we wouldn’t otherwise be able to experience. Whether you’re grilling up some veggies or making a savory teriyaki chicken, you can be sure that your food will be full of flavor and fit for royalty.

So if you’re looking for something special to add to your cooking arsenal, consider getting a yakitori grill; it’ll bring something unique and exciting into your kitchen without breaking the bank. Plus, you’ll get bragging rights among your friends – after all, how many people can say they cook on an authentic Japanese-style grill?

Shara

Shara @The Bird BBQ

Shara loves to experiment with different flavors and techniques when it comes to BBQ. She has been perfecting her craft for years and loves hosting backyard BBQs with friends & family. She often comes up with creative recipes that her guests rave about.