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Tsukune (Japanese Chicken Meatballs)

Tsukune (Japanese Chicken Meatballs) Recipe

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Tsukune, or Japanese chicken meatballs, are a delightful and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any gathering. These tender meatballs, made from ground chicken, are seasoned and grilled to perfection, then generously brushed with a sweet soy tare sauce. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or looking for a tasty appetizer, this recipe is sure to impress your guests. Easy to prepare and versatile in serving options, Tsukune can be enjoyed on skewers, alongside rice, or even as part of a bento box. Simple yet satisfying, these savory chicken bites are a fantastic addition to your culinary repertoire.

Ingredients

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  • 1 ½ pounds ground chicken thighs
  • ½ cup panko bread crumbs
  • ¼ cup finely chopped scallions
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 teaspoons grated fresh ginger
  • 2 teaspoons minced garlic
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
  • ½ cup soy sauce
  • ¼ cup apple juice vinegar
  • ¼ cup dark brown sugar
  • 3 medium cloves of garlic, smashed and peeled
  • 3 scallions, roughly chopped
  • 1 (1-inch) piece of ginger, sliced
  • 1 tablespoon whole black or white peppercorns

Instructions

  1. To make the tare sauce: Combine apple juice vinegar, soy sauce, dark brown sugar, garlic cloves, scallions, ginger slices, and peppercorns in a medium saucepan; bring to a boil and then simmer until thickened (about 45 minutes). Strain and set aside.
  2. For the meatballs: In a mixing bowl, combine ground chicken with panko bread crumbs, scallions, egg, ginger, garlic, sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
  3. Form into 1-inch meatballs and thread onto skewers.
  4. Preheat grill and cook meatballs on each side until browned (approximately 8-10 minutes total). Brush with tare sauce during the last moments of grilling.

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