Chicken Onigiri

Chicken Onigiri are Japanese rice balls filled with savory chicken, perfect for a quick snack, lunchbox, or party appetizer. Crispy or lightly seared on the outside, with flavorful chicken inside, these rice triangles are not only visually appealing but also portable and satisfying.

Originating in Japan, onigiri has been a staple comfort food for centuries, often eaten on picnics or as a convenient meal. Chicken Onigiri brings a savory twist to traditional fillings like pickled plum or salmon, combining tender chicken with seasoned rice for a delicious bite every time.

This recipe is beginner-friendly, quick to make, and highly customizable. You can bake, pan-sear, or simply serve them as soft rice balls.

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Ingredients

• 2 cups sushi rice, cooked and slightly cooled
• 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp mirin
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 4 nori sheets, cut into strips
• 1 tsp sesame seeds
• Optional: pickled vegetables for garnish

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Instructions

1. Prepare Chicken Filling: In a small pan, heat sesame oil over medium heat. Add shredded chicken, soy sauce, and mirin. Cook 3–5 minutes until chicken is fully coated and flavorful. Set aside.
2. Shape Rice Balls: Wet hands with water to prevent sticking. Take about 1/3 cup rice, flatten slightly in your palm, add 1–2 tsp chicken filling in the center, then fold rice over filling and shape into a triangle. Repeat with remaining rice and filling.
3. Wrap with Nori: Wrap each onigiri with a strip of nori, leaving the top exposed if desired. Sprinkle with sesame seeds.
4. Optional Pan-Sear: Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat. Lightly sear each onigiri for 1–2 minutes per side for a crispy exterior.
5. Serve: Serve immediately or store in airtight containers for a portable snack. Optional pickled vegetables can be served on the side.

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Tips for Perfect Chicken Onigiri

• Rice Texture: Use slightly sticky sushi rice for easier shaping.
• Wet Hands: Always wet your hands with water and a pinch of salt to prevent rice from sticking.
• Customize Filling: Add finely chopped green onions, teriyaki sauce, or spicy mayo for flavor variations.
• Storage: Store wrapped onigiri in the fridge for up to 24 hours; reheat gently before serving.

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Fun Facts & Cultural Context

Onigiri, or Japanese rice balls, date back to the 11th century as a portable food for travelers and soldiers. Traditional fillings include salted salmon, umeboshi (pickled plum), or kombu (seaweed). Chicken Onigiri is a modern twist, providing a hearty protein filling suitable for lunchboxes and parties.

The triangular shape is traditional, symbolizing stability and balance, and the nori wrapping helps keep the rice intact while adding flavor.

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Variations

• Teriyaki Chicken Onigiri: Use teriyaki sauce instead of soy and mirin.
• Spicy Chicken Onigiri: Mix chicken with a small amount of sriracha or chili paste.
• Vegetarian Onigiri: Use sautéed mushrooms or pickled vegetables as filling.

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Serving Suggestions

• Serve with pickled vegetables or Japanese pickles.
• Great for bento boxes, picnics, or as a savory snack.
• Pair with miso soup or green tea for a traditional Japanese meal experience.