Name: Savory Chicken Onigiri: Easy Japanese Rice Balls to Love
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Cooked Sushi Rice; ½ teaspoon Fine Salt; Furikake (optional) (Sprinkle for added flavor); 1 pound Boneless Skinless Chicken Meat (Can substitute with thighs or ground chicken); 2 tablespoons Soy Sauce (for marinade) (Infuses rich umami flavor); 1 tablespoon Sake (or water) (Enhances flavor); ½ teaspoon Baking Soda (Tenderizes chicken); 1 tablespoon Cornstarch (Thickens marinade); 2 tablespoons Soy Sauce (for teriyaki sauce) (Creates the sweet and savory glaze); 2 tablespoons Mirin (Adds sweetness); 1 tablespoon Brown Sugar (Balances flavors); 1 tablespoon Oil (Non-stick for cooking); 1 teaspoon Minced Garlic (Infuses garlic flavor); 1 sheet Nori Sheet (Cut into rectangles for handling)

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As I stood in my kitchen, the fragrant aroma of teriyaki sauce wafted through the air, instantly transporting me to Japan with every delightful whiff. Today, I’m excited to share my take on Chicken Onigiri, those adorable Japanese rice balls that are as fun to make as they are to eat. This recipe not only whips up in no time but also transforms everyday chicken into a tasty filling nestled within perfectly seasoned sushi rice. It’s an ideal option for a quick snack or a light lunch, and the best part? They travel well, making them a perfect companion for picnics or busy days on the go. Ready to roll up your sleeves and create these delightful bites? Let’s get started!

Why are Chicken Onigiri a Must-Try?

Flavorful Fusion: These Chicken Onigiri combine savory teriyaki chicken with sticky sushi rice, creating a taste sensation that will leave you craving more.

Quick and Easy: This recipe requires minimal ingredients and can be whipped up in under an hour, making it a perfect option for busy weeknights or meal prepping.

Customizable Goodness: Feel free to swap out chicken for tofu or shrimp, or play with different fillings like pickled vegetables for a twist.

Perfect for On-the-Go Eats: Whether it’s a family picnic or a quick office snack, these portable rice balls make it easy to enjoy delicious food anywhere.

Delicious Presentation: The charming triangle shape wrapped in nori not only looks appealing but is also fun to eat, making them a great choice for impressing guests.

For more tasty meals that are quick to prepare, you might also enjoy my Pesto Chicken Broccoli or Hot Honey Chicken.

Chicken Onigiri Ingredients

For the Rice

Cooked Sushi Rice – Provides the backbone of onigiri; opt for short-grain for that perfect sticky consistency.
Fine Salt – Enhances the flavor of the rice, ensuring it’s evenly distributed for a tasty bite.
Furikake (optional) – Sprinkling this can add an extra umami punch to your seasoned rice.

For the Chicken Filling

Boneless Skinless Chicken Meat – The star ingredient; feel free to swap with chicken thighs or ground chicken.
Soy Sauce (for marinade) – Infuses the chicken with rich umami flavor; a must for a delicious filling.
Sake (or water) – Enhances flavor during marination but can be omitted for simplicity.
Baking Soda – Tenderizes the chicken for a mouthwatering texture.
Cornstarch – Acts as a thickener for the marinade, giving it that ideal coating.
Soy Sauce (for teriyaki sauce) – Essential for creating the sweet and savory glaze you’ll love.
Mirin – Balances the flavors with a touch of sweetness, adding depth to the sauce.
Brown Sugar – Works to soften the saltiness, delivering a perfectly balanced teriyaki sauce.
Oil – Use a non-stick option for cooking the chicken without sticking.
Minced Garlic – Infuses each bite with aromatic goodness as it cooks.

For Assembly

Nori Sheet – The wrap that holds everything together; cut into convenient rectangles for easy handling.

Get ready to make these delightful Chicken Onigiri that will be a hit with family and friends!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chicken Onigiri

Step 1: Prepare the Sushi Rice
Begin by rinsing 1 cup of sushi rice under cold water until the water runs clear, then cook it according to package instructions. Once cooked, fluff the rice and mix in ½ teaspoon of fine salt and, if desired, a sprinkle of furikake for added flavor. Allow the rice to cool slightly but keep it warm for easier handling while forming the Chicken Onigiri.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
While the rice cools, cut 1 pound of boneless skinless chicken into small bite-sized pieces. In a bowl, combine the chicken with 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of sake, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, and 1 tablespoon of cornstarch. Mix well to coat the chicken, then cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and enhance the chicken’s tenderness.

Step 3: Make the Teriyaki Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 2 tablespoons of mirin, and 1 tablespoon of brown sugar until well combined. This mixture will create your sweet and savory teriyaki sauce. Set it aside for later; this sauce will infuse your Chicken Onigiri with delightful flavor when added during cooking.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a non-stick frying pan over medium heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the marinated chicken in a single layer, cooking for 2-3 minutes until browned and thoroughly cooked, stirring occasionally. Add 1 teaspoon of minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in your prepared teriyaki sauce and cook, stirring, until it thickens and coats the chicken pieces.

Step 5: Assemble the Onigiri
With your hands slightly damp, scoop a portion of the warm sushi rice into your palm. Create a small well in the center and fill it with a spoonful of the cooked teriyaki chicken. Top with more rice and gently shape it into a triangle, pressing it firmly without squishing. Wrap each Chicken Onigiri with a small rectangle of nori, ensuring it’s snug but not too tight, to create a delicious handheld snack.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Arrange your delicious Chicken Onigiri on a plate, either as a flavorful snack or as part of a light meal. Serve with extra teriyaki sauce on the side for dipping, or accompany it with soy sauce and pickled ginger for a complete experience. These delightful rice balls are best enjoyed fresh, making them a wonderful treat for picnics or packed lunches!

Expert Tips for Chicken Onigiri

Rice Cooker Magic: Using a rice cooker usually yields the best texture for sushi rice, ensuring the perfect stickiness for your Chicken Onigiri.
Prevent Sticking: Always keep your hands wet when handling the rice; this simple trick will prevent it from sticking to your fingers.
Marination Matters: Allow the chicken to marinate for the full 30 minutes. This enhances both flavor and tenderness, making your onigiri even more delicious.
Moisten Tools: If using plastic wrap to shape the onigiri, make it moist to prevent the rice from sticking to it.
Serving Suggestions: For added flavor, serve your Chicken Onigiri with soy sauce, pickled ginger, or even a side of additional teriyaki sauce for dipping.

Storage Tips for Chicken Onigiri

Room Temperature: Chicken Onigiri are best enjoyed fresh, but can be kept at room temperature for up to 1 hour without losing their delightful texture.

Fridge: Store leftover Chicken Onigiri in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze Chicken Onigiri wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or foil for up to 1 month. Defrost in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat Chicken Onigiri in a microwave for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, or until warmed through, taking care not to overcook the rice.

Make Ahead Options

These Chicken Onigiri are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can make the sushi rice and chicken filling up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring that your schedule remains stress-free. Simply cook the rice and season it, then cool it before refrigerating in an airtight container. For the chicken, marinate the pieces and cook as directed; once cooled, store them in a separate container to maintain texture. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the chicken in a pan and assemble the onigiri by shaping the rice around the filling. This way, you’ll enjoy delicious Chicken Onigiri that are just as tasty as when freshly made!

Chicken Onigiri Variations & Substitutions

Explore the exciting world of Chicken Onigiri and let your taste buds wander!

Dairy-Free: Use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a soy-free teriyaki flavor that’s equally delicious.
Vegetarian: Swap out the chicken for marinated tofu, absorbing all those savory teriyaki flavors for a delightful twist.
Seafood Delight: Make it with shrimp for a fresh seafood alternative, providing a juicy and tender filling everyone will love.
Spicy Kick: Add a splash of sriracha or a dash of gochujang to the teriyaki sauce for a spicy variation that’ll make your taste buds dance.
Flavor Burst: Experiment with different fillings, like pickled vegetables or spicy tuna, to evoke new taste sensations with each bite.
Grain-Free: Use cauliflower rice in place of sushi rice for a low-carb version that’s still packed with flavor. The texture is slightly different, but the taste remains delightful!
Nutrient Boost: Fold in some finely chopped spinach or kale into the rice for an extra nutritious pop—these greens bring color and care to your onigiri!
BBQ Twist: For a Southern-inspired flair, grill the chicken with a BBQ sauce instead of teriyaki; it’s a fun fusion that might surprise you!

Feeling adventurous? For more delightful recipes to complement your culinary journey, check out my Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup or indulge in my crispy Popcorn Chicken Snack.

What to Serve With Chicken Onigiri

Create a delightful meal experience with these charming rice balls that are as versatile as they are tasty.

Soy Sauce: This classic dip enhances the umami of the chicken and brings a savory kick to each bite.
Pickled Ginger: The tangy crunch of pickled ginger adds a refreshing contrast, balancing the flavors beautifully.
Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup serves as a comforting starter, enriching the Japanese dining experience.
Japanese Cucumber Salad: Crisp cucumbers tossed in a light sesame dressing provide a crunchy, fresh element to complement your onigiri.
Edamame: These lightly salted, tender soybeans offer a delightful bite and are packed with protein, making them a healthy side option.
Seaweed Salad: The savory and slightly sweet seaweed salad adds texture, providing an exciting counterpart to the sticky rice.
Green Tea: A warm cup of green tea completes your meal, cleansing the palate and enhancing the overall flavors.
Tempura Vegetables: Lightly battered and fried, tempura vegetables add crunch and warmth, making your meal a feast of textures.
Dessert Mochi: End on a sweet note with mochi, delightful rice cakes filled with ice cream or sweet red beans, perfect after savoring the onigiri.

Chicken Onigiri Recipe FAQs

What type of rice is best for Chicken Onigiri?
Absolutely! For Chicken Onigiri, short-grain sushi rice is the best choice due to its sticky texture, which helps the rice balls hold together. Make sure to rinse the rice under cold water until it runs clear to remove excess starch before cooking.

How do I store leftovers and how long do they last?
Leftover Chicken Onigiri can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. This helps maintain their freshness and flavor. If you’re taking them out for a picnic, it’s best to consume them within an hour at room temperature to ensure they don’t lose their delightful texture.

Can Chicken Onigiri be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze Chicken Onigiri! To do this, wrap each rice ball tightly in plastic wrap or foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply defrost in the fridge overnight and reheat in the microwave for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, keeping an eye on them to avoid overcooking.

What should I do if my rice is too sticky or crumbly?
If your rice is too sticky, it’s likely due to not rinsing it enough before cooking, which leaves excess starch. If it’s too crumbly, that might mean you’ve overcooked it or used the wrong type of rice. To troubleshoot, you could try adding a bit of water while reheating to help it regain moisture and stickiness. For future batches, ensure you use sushi rice and follow the rinsing and cooking instructions closely.

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of with this recipe?
Indeed! If you have allergies, be cautious with ingredients like soy sauce, which contains gluten. Opt for gluten-free soy sauce if that’s a concern. Moreover, if you’re making Chicken Onigiri for pets, remember that the ingredients used in the sauce might not be pet-friendly. It’s best to keep these rice balls as a human treat!

Can I customize the filling for Chicken Onigiri?
Very much so! The beauty of Chicken Onigiri lies in its versatility. You can substitute the chicken with tofu for a vegetarian option, shrimp, or even mix in your favorite ingredients like pickled vegetables or spicy tuna. Feel free to explore and tailor the flavors to your liking!