Tender chicken paired with creamy, tangy Yum Yum sauce brings bold flavor to the table without any fuss. This dish delivers the perfect balance of savory and slightly sweet with a hint of spice that keeps every bite exciting.
Inspired by Japanese steakhouse flavors, the sauce elevates the chicken into something truly crave-worthy. Simple ingredients pack serious punch in this recipe. Juicy, golden-seared chicken soaks up the silky richness of the sauce, making it perfect over rice, noodles, or a bed of sautéed vegetables.
Every element works together to create a comforting, flavor-packed meal that tastes like it came from your favorite hibachi grill.
This recipe shines at dinner time but works just as well for meal prep or a quick lunch. One bite of that signature sauce, and it instantly earns a spot in your weekly rotation.
Chicken With Yum Yum Sauce Recipe
This chicken with Yum Yum sauce recipe brings comfort and flavor to your plate. Juicy pieces of tender chicken, cooked just right, meet a creamy, slightly sweet, and tangy sauce that’s full of taste.
You can enjoy it with rice, noodles, or vegetables. It works well for both lunch and dinner. Yum Yum sauce is often found in Japanese steakhouses in the U.S., but making it at home is easy.
It uses common pantry items and adds a rich taste to your chicken. The mild flavor of the meat and the bold sauce create the perfect bite. Great for busy weeknights or simple gatherings. Let’s get started.
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Serving: 4 people
- Calorie: 390 per serving
- Cuisine: American-Japanese Fusion
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
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500g boneless chicken breast or thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces)
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2 tablespoons soy sauce
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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½ teaspoon garlic powder
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¼ teaspoon black pepper
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½ teaspoon salt
For the Yum Yum Sauce:
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½ cup mayonnaise
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1 tablespoon ketchup
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1 tablespoon rice vinegar or white vinegar
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1 teaspoon sugar
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½ teaspoon garlic powder
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1 tablespoon melted butter
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1 tablespoon water (to thin the sauce if needed)
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A pinch of paprika
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Place the chicken pieces in a bowl. Add soy sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well. Let it rest for 10–15 minutes.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat a nonstick skillet or pan over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken. Cook for 5–6 minutes on one side. Flip and cook another 5–6 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Yum Yum Sauce
In a small bowl, add mayonnaise, ketchup, vinegar, sugar, garlic powder, melted butter, paprika, and water. Stir until smooth. Taste and adjust the sweetness or tang as you like.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
Place the cooked chicken on a serving plate. Drizzle Yum Yum sauce over the top. Or serve it on the side for dipping. Best served warm with steamed rice or stir-fried vegetables.

Top Tips
Use Thighs for Extra Juiciness
Chicken thighs stay moist and tender. Great for this dish.
Let It Rest
After cooking, rest the chicken for a few minutes. It helps keep the juices inside.
Adjust the Sauce
Too thick? Add a bit more water. Too tangy? Add a touch more sugar.
Make It Ahead
Yum Yum sauce stores well. Keep it in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Variations
Spicy Version
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a drop of sriracha to the sauce.
Grill Instead of Pan-Fry
Grill the chicken for a smoky taste.
Add Veggies
Serve with stir-fried bell peppers, onions, or broccoli.
Use Different Proteins
Try shrimp or tofu instead of chicken. The sauce works well with both.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
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Calories: 390 kcal
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Protein: 26g
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Fat: 24g
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Carbohydrates: 10g
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Sugar: 5g
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Sodium: 780mg
FAQs
What is Yum Yum sauce made of?
It is a creamy sauce with mayonnaise, ketchup, vinegar, sugar, garlic powder, and paprika. Some recipes add melted butter for a rich texture.
Can I use store-bought Yum Yum sauce?
Yes. But homemade tastes fresher and lets you adjust it your way.
How long does the sauce last in the fridge?
It lasts up to 5 days in an airtight container.
What can I eat with Yum Yum chicken?
It pairs well with rice, noodles, stir-fried veggies, or even lettuce wraps.
Conclusion
Chicken with Yum Yum sauce gives you a flavorful meal without extra fuss. Simple ingredients. Quick steps. Big taste. Perfect for dinner or meal prep. Try it once, and it might become a family favorite



