Vegan Chicken Yakitori

Experience the umami-packed flavors of Japanese street food with this irresistible Vegan Chicken Yakitori! This plant-based twist on the classic features tender cubes of marinated extra-firm tofu paired with charred scallion pieces, all grilled to perfection on skewers. The marinade—a savory-sweet blend of soy sauce, maple syrup, mirin, rice vinegar, ginger, and garlic—infuses the tofu with bold flavor, while a final sprinkle of sesame seeds adds a nutty crunch. Perfect as an appetizer or a satisfying main dish, these skewers are quick to prepare in just 40 minutes and pair beautifully with steamed rice and veggies. Whether you're hosting a backyard barbecue or craving a healthy Japanese-inspired meal, this vegan yakitori recipe is sure to impress!

Nutriscore Rating: 72/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:40 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 block (about 14 oz) extra-firm tofu
• 0.25 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons mirin
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon (grated) ginger
• 2 cloves (minced) garlic
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 2 whole (cut into 2-inch pieces) scallions
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
• 8 pieces (soaked in water if wooden) skewers

Directions

Step 1

Press the tofu block to remove excess moisture by wrapping it in a clean towel and placing a heavy object on top for 15 minutes.

Step 2

While the tofu is being pressed, prepare the marinade by mixing soy sauce, maple syrup, mirin, rice vinegar, grated ginger, minced garlic, and sesame oil in a mixing bowl.

Step 3

Cut the pressed tofu into bite-sized cubes, approximately 1-inch pieces.

Step 4

Place the tofu cubes into the marinade and let them marinate for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to absorb. If possible, marinate for longer to enhance flavor.

Step 5

Preheat a grill pan or outdoor grill over medium heat and lightly oil with vegetable oil.

Step 6

Slide tofu cubes and scallion pieces onto the skewers, alternating them.

Step 7

Grill the skewers for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the tofu is golden brown and heated through.

Step 8

Brush the skewers with the remaining marinade while grilling for extra flavor.

Step 9

Once done, remove yakitori from the grill and sprinkle with sesame seeds before serving.

Step 10

Serve hot as an appetizer or as a main dish with steamed rice and your choice of vegetables.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1409.7g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2294.1

Total Fat 128.1g	0%
Saturated Fat 29.4g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 16.4g
Cholesterol 400mg	0%
Sodium 4777.8mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 106.6g	0%
Dietary Fiber 19.5g	0%
Total Sugars 61.9g
Protein 190.3g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 2927.6mg	0%
Iron 24.7mg	0%
Potassium 3330.9mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 49.3%

Protein: 32.5%

Carbs: 18.2%