Chicken Onigiri

This Chicken Onigiri is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures that are perfect for any occasion. Easy to prepare, these rice balls are filled with a savory teriyaki chicken filling that will please any palate. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack, a light appetizer, or a unique addition to a picnic spread, this recipe has got you covered. The best part? You can customize the filling to suit your taste!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 45 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Flavorful Filling: The teriyaki chicken filling brings a sweet and savory taste that complements the rice perfectly.
• Versatile Snack: Enjoy these onigiri as an appetizer, snack, or even as part of a lunchbox meal.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to experiment with different fillings or toppings to create your own unique version of chicken onigiri.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make a batch ahead of time and store them in the fridge for an easy grab-and-go snack.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your chicken onigiri, gather your tools and get prepared. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Nonstick pan
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring spoons
• Rice cooker (optional)
• Plastic wrap (for shaping)

Importance of Each Tool

• Nonstick pan: Prevents sticking during cooking, ensuring that your chicken cooks evenly without burning.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for marinating the chicken and combining ingredients easily.

Ingredients

This chicken onigiri is tasty and really easy to make. I made a simple teriyaki chicken filling from chicken drumstick meat.

For the Rice

• 4 cups cooked sushi rice
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (make sure it is fine salt so it can distribute better in the rice)
• 2 tablespoons furikake (optional)

For the Chicken Filling

• 1/2 pound boneless skinless chicken meat (I used drumsticks)
• 2 teaspoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sake (or water)
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch
• 1 ½ tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon mirin
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar (firmly packed)
• 1 tablespoon oil
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic

For Wrapping

• 1 sheet nori (cut into small rectangles)

How to Make Chicken Onigiri

Step 1: Prepare the Sushi Rice

After cooking the sushi rice, mix it with 1/2 a teaspoon of salt and 2 tablespoons of furikake. Adding furikake directly to the rice ensures an even distribution of flavor.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Cut the chicken meat into small pieces. Transfer it to a bowl along with two teaspoons of soy sauce, one tablespoon of sake, baking soda, and cornstarch. Mix until combined, then refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Step 3: Make Teriyaki Sauce

In a small bowl, combine one and a half tablespoons of soy sauce, one tablespoon of mirin, and one tablespoon of brown sugar. Stir well until smooth.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Heat one tablespoon of oil in a large nonstick pan over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken pieces and cook for 2-3 minutes until fully cooked.

Step 5: Add Garlic and Sauce

Reduce heat to medium. Add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the teriyaki sauce mixture and continue cooking until it thickens into a glaze. Remove from heat.

Step 6: Shape the Onigiri

To wrap the onigiri, wet your hands with water. Scoop 1/3 cup of rice into your palm. Make a small well in the center and fill it with one tablespoon of filling. Cover with another scoop of rice (1/3 cup) then shape into a triangle using both hands. Finally, wrap each onigiri with a strip of nori.

Now you have delicious Chicken Onigiri ready to enjoy!

How to Serve Chicken Onigiri

Chicken onigiri is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer or a snack, these suggestions will enhance your dining experience.

With Soy Sauce

• Drizzle soy sauce over the onigiri for an extra burst of flavor. This classic pairing complements the chicken filling perfectly.

As Part of a Bento Box

• Include chicken onigiri in a bento box alongside other Japanese dishes like pickled vegetables and tamagoyaki for a complete meal.

With Green Tea

• Serve chicken onigiri with a hot cup of green tea. The tea’s freshness balances the savory flavors of the onigiri.

As an On-the-Go Snack

• Pack chicken onigiri for lunch or picnics. They are easy to transport and make for a satisfying, portable meal option.

With Fresh Vegetables

• Pair chicken onigiri with fresh cucumber slices or carrot sticks. The crunchiness adds contrast to the soft rice and tender chicken.

How to Perfect Chicken Onigiri

To make the perfect chicken onigiri, attention to detail is key. Follow these tips for exceptional results.

• Use short-grain rice: Short-grain sushi rice has the right stickiness needed to hold the shape of onigiri well.
• Season your rice: Mixing salt and furikake into your rice enhances its flavor and makes every bite delicious.
• Wet your hands: Keeping your hands moist while shaping prevents the rice from sticking, making it easier to form perfect triangles.
• Don’t overfill: Use just enough filling to avoid bursting the onigiri. A tablespoon of teriyaki chicken is usually perfect.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Onigiri

Pairing chicken onigiri with side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup complements the savory flavors of chicken onigiri beautifully.
2. Japanese Pickles: Tsukemono adds a tangy crunch that contrasts nicely with the soft texture of onigiri.
3. Edamame: Steamed edamame provides a healthy protein-rich side that is easy to prepare and enjoy.
4. Seaweed Salad: A refreshing seaweed salad adds an umami touch and pairs well with Japanese cuisine.
5. Tempura Vegetables: Lightly battered and fried veggies bring crunch and flavor to your meal, balancing out the softness of onigiri.
6. Fruit Skewers: Fresh fruit skewers offer a sweet finish after enjoying savory chicken onigiri, making for a balanced meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Chicken Onigiri can be fun, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Skipping the salt: Not adding salt to your sushi rice can lead to bland onigiri. Always mix in fine salt for better flavor distribution.
• Using the wrong chicken cut: Opting for lean chicken breast instead of juicier cuts like drumsticks can make the filling dry. Choose flavorful pieces for a moist filling.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken too long can lead to toughness. Monitor cooking time closely to keep it tender and juicy.
• Ignoring rice texture: Using non-sushi rice will result in onigiri that falls apart. Ensure you use short-grain sushi rice for ideal stickiness.
• Neglecting nori preparation: Failing to cut nori into proper sizes may make wrapping difficult. Cut them into manageable rectangles before assembling.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.

Freezing Chicken Onigiri

• Wrap each onigiri individually in plastic wrap.
• Store in a freezer bag for up to 1 month.

Reheating Chicken Onigiri

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake wrapped onigiri for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
• Stovetop: Lightly pan-fry on low heat in a nonstick skillet for a few minutes until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some questions readers often ask about Chicken Onigiri.

What is Chicken Onigiri?

Chicken Onigiri is a Japanese rice ball filled with seasoned chicken and shaped into triangles, often wrapped in nori.

Can I customize the filling for Chicken Onigiri?

Absolutely! You can use different meats or vegetables based on your taste preferences.

How do I keep my Chicken Onigiri fresh?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freeze them individually for longer freshness.

Is Chicken Onigiri suitable for meal prep?

Yes! They make a great snack or meal option and can be prepped ahead of time.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Onigiri recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize the filling and enjoy it as a snack, appetizer, or even a meal. Don’t hesitate to try this easy recipe and explore different variations that suit your taste!

Print