Name: Chicken Onigiri: 5 Savory Reasons to Love This Snack
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: Japanese
Ingredients: 4 cups Sushi Rice; 1 teaspoon Salt; 2 tablespoons Furikake (optional); 1 pound Boneless, Skinless Chicken Meat (thighs or ground chicken can be used); 3 tablespoons Soy Sauce; 2 tablespoons Sake or Water (for moisture); 1/2 teaspoon Baking Soda; 1 tablespoon Cornstarch; 2 cloves Minced Garlic; 2 tablespoons Mirin; 2 tablespoons Brown Sugar; 1 tablespoon Oil (for stir-frying); 1 sheet Nori (for wrapping)

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Chicken Onigiri is a delightful Japanese snack that combines the rich flavors of marinated chicken with the texture of sticky rice. These savory rice balls are easy to make and perfect for lunch or a quick snack. The addition of teriyaki sauce elevates this dish, making it a satisfying option for anyone craving something unique and delicious. Let’s dive into the world of Chicken Onigiri and discover why this dish deserves a place in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Onigiri

This Chicken Onigiri recipe is not just tasty; it’s packed with benefits. Here are some reasons to love it:

Quick preparation time, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Perfect for meal prep; you can make a batch and enjoy them throughout the week.
Versatile fillings allow you to customize your onigiri to suit your taste.
Nutritious option with lean chicken and sushi rice.
A great source of protein, making it a healthy snack choice.
Fun to make with kids; shaping the rice balls can be a family activity.
Easy Chicken Onigiri ideas for various fillings keep meals exciting.
A traditional Japanese dish that introduces you to new flavors.

Ingredients for Chicken Onigiri

Gather these items:

4 cups Sushi Rice
1 teaspoon Salt
2 tablespoons Furikake (optional)
1 pound Boneless, Skinless Chicken Meat (thighs or ground chicken can be used)
3 tablespoons Soy Sauce
2 tablespoons Sake or Water (for moisture)
1/2 teaspoon Baking Soda
1 tablespoon Cornstarch
2 cloves Minced Garlic
2 tablespoons Mirin
2 tablespoons Brown Sugar
1 tablespoon Oil (for stir-frying)
1 sheet Nori (for wrapping)

How to Make Chicken Onigiri Step-by-Step

Step 1: Cook the Rice: Use a rice cooker to prepare 4 cups of sushi rice. Once cooked, mix in fine salt and sprinkle furikake for extra flavor.
Step 2: Marinate Chicken: Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces, combine with soy sauce, sake, baking soda, and cornstarch. Marinate for 30 minutes.
Step 3: Make Teriyaki Sauce: Whisk together soy sauce, mirin, and brown sugar in a small bowl.
Step 4: Stir-Fry Chicken: Heat oil in a pan, sauté marinated chicken until cooked, add garlic, and then stir in teriyaki sauce until thickened.
Step 5: Shape Onigiri: With wet hands, scoop rice into your palm, create a well for chicken filling, cover with more rice, mold into a triangle shape and wrap with nori.

Irresistible Chicken Onigiri fresh and ready to eat

Pro Tips for the Perfect Chicken Onigiri

Keep these in mind:

Use day-old rice for better texture when shaping.
Experiment with different fillings like vegetables or seafood.
Make sure your hands are wet to prevent the rice from sticking.
Serve with soy sauce or wasabi for dipping.

Best Ways to Serve Chicken Onigiri

This dish is incredibly versatile! Here are some serving suggestions:

Pair with miso soup for a complete meal.
Serve as a snack at parties or gatherings.
Include in lunchboxes for a healthy, portable option.

How to Store and Reheat Chicken Onigiri

To store your Chicken Onigiri, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last for up to three days. When reheating, use a microwave but be careful not to overcook the rice. It’s also great for meal prep; make a batch at the start of the week!

Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Onigiri

What’s the secret to perfect Chicken Onigiri?

The secret lies in using the right ratio of water to sushi rice, ensuring the rice is sticky enough to hold its shape. Additionally, let the rice cool slightly before shaping for the best texture.

Can I make Chicken Onigiri ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare Chicken Onigiri ahead of time! Just store them in the fridge for up to three days. They make a fantastic grab-and-go snack or lunch option.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Chicken Onigiri?

To avoid mistakes, ensure your rice is cooked perfectly and sticky enough. Don’t over-marinate the chicken, or it may become too salty. Finally, remember to wet your hands when shaping the onigiri to keep the rice from sticking.

Variations of Chicken Onigiri You Can Try

Here are some fun variations to consider:

Try different fillings like avocado or pickled vegetables for a twist.
Use brown rice for a healthier option.
Add different spices to the chicken marinade for unique flavors.
Incorporate vegetables like carrots or spinach into the rice mixture.

For more delicious recipes, check out Sliced Bread Ciabatta and Oil or Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil. You might also enjoy Mediterranean Chickpea Salad for a refreshing side dish.

Chicken Onigiri ready to serve with a side of dipping sauce

Chicken Onigiri: 5 Savory Reasons to Love This Snack

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Author: Michael
Total Time: 75 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Low Fat

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Description

Savory Chicken Onigiri with Teriyaki: Your New Go-To Snack

Ingredients

Scale

4 cups Sushi Rice
1 teaspoon Salt
2 tablespoons Furikake (optional)
1 pound Boneless, Skinless Chicken Meat (thighs or ground chicken can be used)
3 tablespoons Soy Sauce
2 tablespoons Sake or Water (for moisture)
1/2 teaspoon Baking Soda
1 tablespoon Cornstarch
2 cloves Minced Garlic
2 tablespoons Mirin
2 tablespoons Brown Sugar
1 tablespoon Oil (for stir-frying)
1 sheet Nori (for wrapping)

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Instructions

Cook the Rice: Use a rice cooker to prepare 4 cups of sushi rice. Once cooked, mix in fine salt and sprinkle furikake for extra flavor.
Marinate Chicken: Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces, combine with soy sauce, sake, baking soda, and cornstarch. Marinate for 30 minutes.
Make Teriyaki Sauce: Whisk together soy sauce, mirin, and brown sugar in a small bowl.
Stir-Fry Chicken: Heat oil in a pan, sauté marinated chicken until cooked, add garlic, and then stir in teriyaki sauce until thickened.
Shape Onigiri: With wet hands, scoop rice into your palm, create a well for chicken filling, cover with more rice, mold into a triangle shape and wrap with nori.