As I was savoring the last bite of a delicious Japanese meal, a warm memory flashed back to me—spending afternoons with my grandmother, making onigiri together in her cozy kitchen. With each rice ball we formed, her laughter filled the air. Today, I’m thrilled to share this Chicken Onigiri recipe, inspired by those cherished moments. It’s not just an easy appetizer; it’s a delightful way to embrace Japanese cuisine right in your home. The combination of tender marinated chicken and sticky sushi rice, all enveloped in a savory teriyaki glaze, makes these onigiri truly irresistible. Not only are they quick to prepare, but they’re also incredibly family-friendly, perfect for snacking or a fun bento box surprise. So why not gather your loved ones and create your own onigiri memories? What flavors are calling your name to try in this recipe? Why is Chicken Onigiri a Must-Try? Quick to Make: This Chicken Onigiri recipe takes minimal time to prepare, allowing you to whip up a delicious snack in no time. Flavorful Fusion: The rich teriyaki glaze perfectly complements the tender chicken, bringing a burst of umami to each bite. Family-Friendly Fun: Engage your loved ones in the shaping process, making it a fun family activity that everyone can enjoy. Versatile Variations: Feel free to switch up the proteins or fillings, like using tofu for a vegetarian twist, to keep things exciting. Perfect for Any Occasion: Serve these onigiri at parties, pack them in bento boxes, or enjoy them as a quick weekday snack—versatility at its best! Chicken Onigiri Ingredients For the Rice • Sushi Rice – Required for its sticky texture, allowing the onigiri to hold their shape; remember to use short-grain rice for best results. • Salt – Enhances the flavor of the rice; using fine salt ensures even absorption. For the Chicken Filling • Boneless Skinless Chicken (Drumsticks) – The main protein that provides rich flavor; thighs or ground chicken can be used as great substitutes. • Soy Sauce – Adds a depth of umami in both the marinade and glaze; opt for low-sodium versions if desired. • Sake – Infuses the chicken with a delightful flavor depth; water works as a substitute if sake isn’t available. • Baking Soda – Tenderizes the chicken during marination for a delectable bite. • Cornstarch – Helps to create a crispy coating when stir-frying the chicken. • Minced Garlic – Offers aromatic depth during cooking; a little goes a long way! For the Teriyaki Glaze • Mirin – Sweet rice wine that adds balance to savory flavors in the glaze; it’s essential for that authentic taste. • Brown Sugar – Provides sweetness to the teriyaki sauce; you can substitute it with coconut sugar for a healthier option. • Oil – Use a neutral oil like canola for stir-frying, ensuring the flavors shine through without overpowering. For Assembly • Furikake – Optional seasoning for a burst of flavor; skip it if you prefer, or use sesame seeds for a similar crunch. • Nori – Seaweed wraps that add flavor and a beautiful touch; cut into rectangles for wrapping your onigiri. Embrace the art of homemade Chicken Onigiri to create unforgettable snacking moments! Step-by-Step Instructions for Chicken Onigiri Step 1: Prepare the Sushi Rice Rinse 2 cups of sushi rice under cold water until the water runs clear, then combine it with 2.5 cups of water in a rice cooker. Cook according to your rice cooker’s instructions, roughly 30-40 minutes. Once the rice is done, transfer it to a large bowl, sprinkle with 1 teaspoon of salt and optional furikake, then mix gently while fanning it to cool slightly. Step 2: Marinate the Chicken Cut 1 pound of boneless skinless chicken drumsticks into small, bite-sized pieces and place them in a mixing bowl. Add 3 tablespoons of soy sauce, 2 tablespoons of sake, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and 2 tablespoons of cornstarch. Toss to coat evenly and let it marinate for 30 minutes to maximize flavor and tenderness while you prepare the teriyaki sauce. Step 3: Make the Teriyaki Sauce In a small bowl, mix together 4 tablespoons of mirin, 2 tablespoons of brown sugar, and an additional 2 tablespoons of soy sauce. Stir until the sugar is fully dissolved. This savory-sweet teriyaki sauce will elevate your Chicken Onigiri to perfection, making it irresistibly tasty. Set the sauce aside while you stir-fry the chicken. Step 4: Stir-Fry the Chicken Heat 2 tablespoons of neutral oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the marinated chicken pieces and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until they are browned and cooked through. Add 1 teaspoon of minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds until fragrant, then pour the teriyaki sauce over the chicken and let it simmer until it thickens slightly, about 1-2 minutes. Step 5: Shape the Onigiri Wet your hands to prevent sticking and scoop about ⅓ cup of the seasoned sushi rice into your palm. Create a well in the center and place a tablespoon of the cooked chicken filling inside. Cover it with more rice, compressing it firmly, and shape into a triangular form. Each Chicken Onigiri should feel compact yet slightly sticky, ideal for holding its shape. Step 6: Wrap with Nori Cut sheets of nori into rectangles, about 1-inch wide, and wrap them around the base of each onigiri to add flavor and a touch of elegance. Make sure to press gently to help the nori adhere, giving your Chicken Onigiri a delightful presentation. Display them on a plate and enjoy these tasty Japanese bites, ideally served fresh! What to Serve with Teriyaki Chicken Onigiri? As you dive into this delightful Japanese snack, consider the perfect companions to create a memorable meal experience. Crispy Edamame: A light, protein-packed snack that adds a fresh, vibrant contrast to the savory onigiri. Tossed with sea salt, they make the perfect crunchy side. Seaweed Salad: This refreshing dish brings a delightful umami punch and texture, enhancing the enjoyable experience of your chicken onigiri. Its lightness complements the rice beautifully. Miso Soup: Warm and comforting, miso soup offers a gentle flavor profile that pairs well with the salty sweetness of the teriyaki glaze. Sipping a warm bowl balances the meal wonderfully. Cucumber Pickles: The tangy crunch of pickled cucumbers brightens each bite of onigiri, cleansing the palate with each chew. Their tartness brings a refreshing contrast. Japanese Potato Salad: Creamy and slightly sweet, this side dish adds a rich texture that pairs well with the sticky rice. The addition of vegetables brings vibrant colors to your plate. Sake or Green Tea: Complement your meal with a glass of chilled sake for a unique flavor pairing, or serve refreshing green tea for a traditional touch that completes the Japanese culinary experience. Fruit Skewers: Finish off with sweet fruit skewers, combining juicy melon, strawberries, and pineapple. This light, fruity dessert rounds out your meal with a cleanse of freshness. Each of these pairings elevates your dining experience, allowing the delightful flavors of chicken onigiri to shine through! Storage Tips for Chicken Onigiri Fridge: Store any leftover onigiri in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Make sure they are wrapped tightly to prevent drying out. Freezer: To freeze, wrap each onigiri individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 1 month. Reheating: Thaw frozen onigiri in the fridge overnight, then microwave for 30-60 seconds until warmed through. Enjoy with fresh nori for the best texture! Expert Tips for Chicken Onigiri Sticky Rice: Ensure your sushi rice is sticky enough by adjusting the water ratio; stick to using short-grain rice for optimal texture. Wet Hands: When shaping the onigiri, wet your hands to prevent the rice from sticking, making the shaping process more manageable and enjoyable. Even Glaze: Let your teriyaki glaze thicken properly in the pan to enhance flavor and texture; take care not to rush this step. Chicken Variations: Feel free to experiment with different chicken parts or even substitute with proteins like tofu; just adjust cooking times accordingly for best results. Storage Tips: Enjoy your Chicken Onigiri fresh, but if you have leftovers, wrap them tightly and store in the fridge for up to 2 days to maintain moisture. Presentation Matters: Use fresh nori for wrapping to add elegance and prevent it from becoming soggy, ensuring your onigiri stand out on the plate! Make Ahead Options These Chicken Onigiri are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the sushi rice and marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, storing them separately in the refrigerator for optimal freshness. The sushi rice can be kept tightly covered to prevent it from drying out, while the marinated chicken should be placed in an airtight container. When you’re ready to serve, simply stir-fry the marinated chicken and shape your onigiri as instructed. This way, you’ll enjoy delicious Chicken Onigiri with minimal effort, all while saving precious time on busy weeknights! Chicken Onigiri Variations & Substitutions Get creative and personalize your Chicken Onigiri with these fun twists and alternatives that will make your taste buds dance! Vegetarian: Replace the chicken with marinated tofu for a delicious plant-based option. Just ensure the tofu is pressed and flavorful. Shrimp Delight: Swap chicken for shrimp, sautéing them briefly with garlic for a seafood touch. It’s a delightful twist that brings a coastal flavor. Spicy Kick: Incorporate sriracha or chili paste into your teriyaki sauce for an extra layer of heat. Adjust to your spice preference, and prepare for a flavor explosion! Flavor-Infused Rice: Cook your sushi rice with broth instead of water, imparting a deeper savory flavor to the rice and elevating your onigiri experience. Savory Fillings: Experiment with fillings like pickled vegetables or even egg salad for a unique twist. Mixing textures and flavors keeps your onigiri fresh and exciting. Nutritional Boost: Add finely diced spinach or chopped carrots to the rice mixture before shaping for an extra burst of color and nutrition. Teriyaki Twist: For a different glaze, try a honey-soy mixture for a sweeter touch. It beautifully complements the savory elements of the dish. Seaweed Swap: If nori isn’t your preference, consider using lettuce or collard greens to wrap your onigiri for a fresh crunch and different presentation. For more delicious options, you might want to check out our Cheesy Garlic Chicken or try a spicy twist with Buffalo Chicken Taquitos. Enjoy the magic of cooking and let your creativity shine! Chicken Onigiri Recipe FAQs How should I select the best sushi rice for Chicken Onigiri? Choose high-quality short-grain sushi rice for the best texture and stickiness. It should be pearly white without any dark spots or blemishes. Rinse it thoroughly under cold water to remove excess starch, allowing for a perfect rice to hold together when shaped. What are the best storage methods for leftover Chicken Onigiri? To keep your leftover Chicken Onigiri fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Make sure to wrap them tightly to prevent drying out. If you notice the rice becoming too hard, a quick microwave reheating with a damp paper towel can help restore some moisture. Can I freeze Chicken Onigiri? If so, how? Absolutely! To freeze Chicken Onigiri, wrap each one individually in plastic wrap and place them into a freezer-safe bag. They will stay fresh for up to one month. When ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the fridge and reheat in the microwave for 30-60 seconds until warmed through. What should I do if the rice isn’t sticky enough? If your sushi rice isn’t sticky enough after cooking, it’s likely the water to rice ratio was off. Adjust your setup next time, using a bit more water (around 15% more for short-grain). For now, try adding a little vinegar or rice seasoning to increase stickiness and enhance flavor. Are there any dietary considerations for Chicken Onigiri? Definitely! If you have gluten sensitivities, ensure you use gluten-free tamari instead of soy sauce. For those with egg allergies, my recipe omits eggs, making it safe. Additionally, you can make this dish vegetarian by substituting chicken with tofu or shrimp! How do I prevent my nori from becoming soggy? To keep your nori crisp, wrap it just before serving. If you’re preparing in advance, consider serving the onigiri without nori and adding it fresh when ready to eat. Alternatively, you can lightly toast the nori before wrapping to enhance its texture! Chicken Onigiri: Savory Japanese Snack to Satisfy Cravings Delight in these Chicken Onigiri, a savory Japanese snack that brings together tender chicken and sticky rice for an irresistible treat. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 40 minutes minsMarinating Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 40 minutes mins Servings: 4 piecesCourse: SnacksCuisine: JapaneseCalories: 250 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Rice2 cups Sushi Rice Use short-grain rice for best results.1 teaspoon Salt Enhances the rice flavor.For the Chicken Filling1 pound Boneless Skinless Chicken (Drumsticks) Thighs or ground chicken can be substitutes.3 tablespoons Soy Sauce Opt for low-sodium versions if desired.2 tablespoons Sake Water can be used as a substitute.1 teaspoon Baking Soda Tenderizes the chicken.2 tablespoons Cornstarch Creates a crispy coating when stir-frying.1 teaspoon Minced Garlic Adds aromatic depth.For the Teriyaki Glaze4 tablespoons Mirin Essential for authentic teriyaki flavor.2 tablespoons Brown Sugar Coconut sugar can be a substitute.2 tablespoons Oil Use a neutral oil like canola.For Assembly1 tablespoon Furikake Optional for added flavor.Nori Cut into rectangles for wrapping. Equipment Rice CookerLarge skilletMixing bowl Method Preparation StepsRinse sushi rice under cold water, combine with water in a rice cooker, and cook.Cut chicken into pieces, mix with marinade ingredients, and let marinate.Mix mirin, brown sugar, and soy sauce for teriyaki sauce, and set aside.Heat oil, stir-fry chicken until browned, add garlic, and pour in teriyaki sauce.Wet hands, scoop rice, fill with chicken, and shape into triangles.Wrap onigiri with nori and serve. Nutrition Serving: 1onigiriCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 15gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 250mgFiber: 1gSugar: 3gCalcium: 1mgIron: 5mg NotesEnjoy Chicken Onigiri fresh. Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 2 days. For freezing, wrap individually and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
