Creating Juicy Japanese BBQ Chicken Thighs is simple if you follow these clear steps:

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, mirin, sake, brown sugar, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, and black pepper.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Place chicken thighs in a resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are well coated. Seal or cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight.
3. Preheat the Grill or Oven: If grilling, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If baking, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
4. Cook the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing excess to drip off. For grilling, place the thighs directly on the grill and cook for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). For baking, place the chicken on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
5. Rest the Chicken: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the heat and let it rest for 5 minutes. This helps retain the juices.
6. Garnish and Serve: Slice the chicken and garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds before serving.

Following these steps will ensure you achieve juicy, flavorful chicken thighs every time!