Hibachi Chicken Recipe with Yum Yum Sauce
Bring the sizzling flavors of Japanese steakhouses home with this Hibachi Chicken Recipe! Juicy chicken, smoky veggies, and creamy yum yum sauce create a quick, crowd-pleasing dish perfect for any occasion.
If you’ve ever sat around a hibachi grill, mesmerized by the sizzling sounds and tantalizing aromas, you know the joy of hibachi chicken. This dish is all about bold flavors, tender chicken, and that magical combo of sautéed vegetables and creamy yum yum sauce. It’s a restaurant-quality meal you can whip up at home, complete with juicy chicken and crispy veggies, all cooked to perfection in one pan.
You’ll learn how to recreate that smoky, caramelized flavor in your own kitchen, even without a flat-top grill. And yes, I’ve included tips for the perfect yum yum sauce—the irresistible condiment you’ll want to slather on everything.
If you're in the mood for a full-on culinary adventure, check out this Air Fryer Crunchy Cream Potatoes recipe for a crispy side dish that pairs wonderfully with hibachi chicken. Or explore this Frittata Recipe Using Turnips and Potatoes for a unique breakfast idea.
What is Hibachi Chicken?
Hibachi chicken is a classic Japanese-American dish cooked on a searing hot griddle or flat-top grill. It's all about high heat, quick cooking, and bold seasonings. The chicken is diced and seared to perfection, often accompanied by vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, and onions. The signature sauce—yum yum sauce—is a creamy, tangy delight that brings everything together.
This recipe is a home-cooked version that’s easy, accessible, and just as flavorful as what you’d get at a restaurant. It skips the need for a fancy hibachi grill but still delivers those iconic smoky flavors.
For more unique recipes, try this Lombatello Steak recipe for a hearty meal, or whip up Daylily Fritters as an appetizer to impress your guests.
Ingredients for the Perfect Hibachi Chicken
Let’s talk ingredients. Each component plays a key role in creating the flavors and textures that make hibachi chicken irresistible.
Chicken
The star of the dish. Boneless, skinless chicken breast works best, but chicken thighs are a juicy alternative. Freshness is key for that tender bite.
Soy Sauce
This is the backbone of hibachi seasoning, adding savory umami depth. Opt for a high-quality soy sauce like Kikkoman for the best results.
Sesame Oil
A drizzle of sesame oil gives the chicken its nutty, aromatic flavor. Toasted sesame oil is especially fragrant and enhances the overall profile.
Vegetable Oil
Used for high-heat cooking. Stick with neutral oils like canola or grapeseed to let the sesame flavor shine.
Garlic and Ginger
Fresh is always better here. Garlic brings boldness, while ginger adds a subtle zing that brightens the dish.
Vegetables
Zucchini, mushrooms, and onions are classic hibachi choices. They cook quickly and soak up all the flavors from the pan.
Yum Yum Sauce
A blend of mayonnaise, ketchup, sugar, and paprika. It's the creamy, tangy topping that elevates every bite.
If you love sauces, don’t miss the Blue Jam Garlic Aioli Recipe. It’s a versatile condiment that pairs well with almost anything.
Why You’ll Love This Hibachi Chicken Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 45 minutes.
- Flavorful: Packed with umami, smoky flavors, and a creamy sauce.
- Versatile: Perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or even small gatherings.
- Customizable: Swap out veggies or spice it up with chili flakes.
For other crowd-pleasers, try the Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce or Pork Con Tiki Recipe.
Best Occasions for Hibachi Chicken
Hibachi chicken shines at casual dinner parties, birthday celebrations, or family gatherings. Its theatrical origins make it fun for interactive meals. In Japan, hibachi-style cooking has roots in communal dining, making it a great option for bringing people together.
Pair it with Spiedie Sandwiches for a fusion twist or finish off your meal with a decadent Snickers Strawberry Cheesecake.
How to Make Hibachi Chicken at Home
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
Dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Slice your veggies into uniform shapes for even cooking.
Marinate the chicken in a mix of soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes for maximum flavor absorption.
Step 2: Heat the Pan
Use a large skillet or wok over high heat. Add vegetable oil and wait until it’s shimmering.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Sear the chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
For a complementary dish, consider Nduja Sausage. Its spiciness pairs beautifully with hibachi flavors.
Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pan, add a little more oil if needed. Toss in your veggies—zucchini, mushrooms, and onions—and cook on high heat.
Stir frequently to ensure even browning, but don’t overcrowd the pan. You want that slight char on the veggies for that authentic hibachi flavor. This step usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
If you love experimenting with side dishes, pair your hibachi chicken with Tippins Cornbread for a Southern-inspired twist or Air Fryer Crunchy Bream Potatoes for a crispy delight.
Step 5: Combine Chicken and Vegetables
Return the cooked chicken to the pan with the veggies. Drizzle with a touch of soy sauce and sesame oil, tossing everything together to coat it in that irresistible glaze.
At this point, you can sprinkle in sesame seeds for extra crunch and flavor. It’s optional but adds a lovely touch of texture.
Making the Perfect Yum Yum Sauce
The yum yum sauce is where the magic happens. It’s creamy, slightly sweet, and just the right amount of tangy. Here’s how to whip it up:
Ingredients for Yum Yum Sauce
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (Japanese mayo, like Kewpie, works best)
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Water (to thin the sauce to your desired consistency)
Steps to Prepare Yum Yum Sauce
- Combine all ingredients in a bowl.
- Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Chill in the fridge for at least 10 minutes to let the flavors meld.
This sauce isn’t just for hibachi chicken—it’s a fantastic dip for fries, veggies, or even this Cunetto Garlic Cheese Bread.
Pro Tips for the Best Hibachi Chicken
- High Heat is Key: Crank up the heat to get that perfect sear and smoky flavor.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: The fresher the chicken and veggies, the better the results.
- Marinate Wisely: Even a short marination of 15 minutes makes a big difference.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Give your ingredients space to caramelize properly.
- Prep Everything in Advance: Hibachi cooking moves quickly, so have everything chopped and ready.
For even more flavor, consider serving this with Street Corn Popcorn Seasoning sprinkled over rice or popcorn as a side snack.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your hibachi chicken over steamed jasmine rice or fried rice for a complete meal. Garnish with chopped scallions or a sprinkle of sesame seeds for that restaurant-style presentation.
Looking for more ways to level up the meal? Pair it with Mei and Kyong Egg Fried Rice or add a tangy twist with Captain D's Slaw Recipe.
Why This Recipe Works Every Time
- Balanced Flavors: The combination of soy sauce, sesame oil, and yum yum sauce is a crowd-pleaser.
- Easy Technique: You don’t need a professional grill to nail this recipe. A simple skillet does the job perfectly.
- Customizable: Adjust the veggies, spice level, or sauce thickness to suit your taste.
For dessert, finish the meal with a refreshing Tajin Sorbet or an indulgent Artsy Chic Cake.
Variations You’ll Want to Try
- Spicy Hibachi Chicken: Add chili paste or sriracha to the marinade for a kick.
- Garlic Butter Hibachi Chicken: Toss the cooked chicken and veggies in melted garlic butter for a richer flavor.
- Seafood Twist: Swap out chicken for shrimp or scallops for a seafood version.
For more creative ideas, try this Makmoura Recipe or the incredibly flavorful Carne Apache.
Hibachi Chicken with Yum Yum Sauce
This hibachi chicken recipe brings the sizzling flavors of your favorite Japanese steakhouse right to your kitchen. Tender, juicy chicken is paired with sautéed vegetables and a creamy yum yum sauce, creating an unforgettable dining experience.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 tsp garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ginger, grated
- 1 cup zucchini, sliced into half-moons
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 small onion, sliced
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 2 tbsp water (adjust for consistency)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Combine soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger in a bowl. Marinate diced chicken in this mixture for 15-30 minutes.
- Heat vegetable oil in a skillet or flat-top grill over high heat. Sear chicken until golden brown and fully cooked (6-8 minutes).
- In the same skillet, add sesame oil and stir-fry zucchini, mushrooms, and onions until tender-crisp (about 5 minutes). Add soy sauce and cook for another minute.
- For the yum yum sauce, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, sugar, paprika, and water until smooth. Chill in the fridge.
- Serve the chicken and vegetables with yum yum sauce drizzled on top or on the side for dipping. Pair with fried rice for a complete meal.
prep time with cook time.
Serves 6 and contains approximately 350 calories per serving.
Japanese, Asian / Dinner, Main Course
Rated 4.9 by 237 reviewers.
Recipe Tags: hibachi chicken, Japanese recipe, yum yum sauce, Asian dinner, easy hibachi recipe, hibachi chicken with vegetables
Published by: Show Recipe
Nutritional Information
Eating a homemade hibachi chicken meal not only guarantees delicious flavors but also allows you to keep an eye on your nutrition. Here’s an approximate breakdown for one serving of hibachi chicken with vegetables and rice (including yum yum sauce):
- Calories: ~450 per serving
- Protein: 30g (from the chicken and veggies)
- Carbohydrates: 40g (with rice as the base)
- Fats: 15g (from the oil, sesame seeds, and sauce)
- Fiber: 4g (thanks to the fresh vegetables)
Keep in mind, you can always tweak the dish to suit your dietary needs. Opt for brown rice instead of jasmine rice for added fiber or skip the yum yum sauce to cut back on fats.
For another healthy-yet-flavorful option, check out this Viral Cottage Cheese Flatbread Recipe—it’s a game-changer for light meals.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Got leftovers? Here’s how to keep them fresh and reheat them without losing flavor.
Storage
- Refrigeration: Store the hibachi chicken and vegetables in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the cooked chicken and vegetables separately from the rice. This helps preserve texture and prevents sogginess.
Reheating
- Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each session to ensure even heating.
- Skillet: For a fresher taste, reheat on a stovetop over medium heat. Add a splash of soy sauce or water to prevent drying out.
Need more freezer-friendly ideas? Try this Cowboy Candy Canning Recipe, perfect for preserving spicy-sweet jalapeños for months.
Perfect Pairings for Your Hibachi Chicken Meal
To complete your meal, here are some sides and desserts that match beautifully with the bold, smoky flavors of hibachi chicken:
Sides
- Boba Shop Fries: Crunchy and salty, these fries are a fun and unexpected pairing.
- Frittata with Turnips and Potatoes: A hearty side that complements the simplicity of hibachi flavors.
- Chicken Souse: Add a zesty and tangy element to your dinner spread.
Desserts
- Snickers Strawberry Cheesecake: Decadent and rich, this is a perfect way to end the meal.
- Houston Key Lime Pie: A citrusy and refreshing treat to cleanse your palate.
Why You’ll Keep Coming Back to This Hibachi Chicken Recipe
This recipe checks all the boxes for a go-to meal:
- Quick and Easy: Perfect for weeknight dinners or last-minute cravings.
- Crowd-Pleasing: Ideal for family dinners, gatherings, or even meal prep for the week.
- Customizable: Whether you’re cooking for kids, spice lovers, or picky eaters, this dish adapts beautifully.
For your next big occasion or a cozy weeknight, consider adding a touch of elegance with this Lamb Ragu D'Rose Mary Recipe.