Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside — these rice balls are the perfect fusion of comfort and flavor! 🍗🍚✨
Looking for something exciting and different, yet still satisfying and comforting? These Teriyaki Chicken Rice Balls are the answer. Inspired by the traditional Japanese onigiri but with an American-friendly twist, they’re stuffed with sweet and savory teriyaki chicken, then pan-seared until crisp. 😋
Whether you’re meal-prepping, packing lunch, or craving something bold and portable — these rice balls are a must-try!
📝 Ingredients
For the teriyaki chicken filling:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breast), finely chopped
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp mirin
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- ½ tsp minced garlic
- ½ tsp grated fresh ginger
For the rice:
- 2 cups cooked short-grain Japanese rice (warm, not hot)
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- Pinch of salt
To assemble:
- Nori sheets, cut into strips (optional)
- Toasted sesame seeds
- Oil for pan-searing
🔥 Instructions
1. Make the teriyaki chicken 🍗
In a skillet, heat sesame oil over medium heat. Add garlic and ginger, stir until fragrant. Add chopped chicken and cook until no longer pink. Stir in soy sauce, mirin, and brown sugar. Simmer until the sauce thickens and coats the chicken. Set aside to cool.
2. Season the rice 🍚
Mix warm rice with a pinch of salt and rice vinegar. Let it cool slightly so it’s easier to handle.
3. Assemble the rice balls 👐
Wet your hands with water and scoop some rice into your palm. Flatten slightly and place 1–2 teaspoons of the chicken mixture in the center. Cover with more rice and shape into a triangle or ball. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and wrap with a strip of nori if using.
4. Crisp them up (optional but delicious!) 🔥
Heat a little oil in a non-stick pan. Sear each rice ball on both sides until golden and crispy. It adds texture and locks in flavor!
🍽️ Pro Tips
✅ Use plastic wrap while shaping if the rice is too sticky
✅ These can be eaten warm or cold — great for on-the-go!
✅ For a spicy kick, mix a little sriracha into the teriyaki sauce 🌶️
💬 Final Thoughts
These Teriyaki Chicken Rice Balls bring together the savory depth of teriyaki with the comfort of soft rice — all in a portable, crispy, bite-sized form. It’s a dish that’s both nostalgic and new, perfect for anyone craving bold, satisfying flavors. 😍🍙
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Primary: Teriyaki Chicken Rice Balls
Long-tail: How to make Japanese rice balls, teriyaki chicken onigiri recipe, easy Japanese-American lunch ideas