Chicken Rice Balls

Update : November 13, 2025

why make this recipe

Chicken Rice Balls are a delightful snack that combines the flavors of tender chicken and seasoned sushi rice in a fun, bite-sized form. They are perfect for lunch boxes, picnics, or a quick snack on the go. Not only are they tasty, but they are also customizable, allowing you to add your favorite ingredients or adjust the flavors to suit your taste.

how to make Chicken Rice Balls

Ingredients:

4 cups cooked sushi rice
1/2 teaspoon fine salt
2 tablespoons furikake (optional)
1/2 pound boneless skinless chicken meat (drumsticks recommended)
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
1 sheet nori (cut into small rectangles)

Directions:

After cooking the sushi rice, mix it with 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 2 tablespoons of furikake.
Cut the chicken into small pieces and combine it with soy sauce, sake, baking soda, cornstarch, mirin, and brown sugar. Refrigerate for 30 minutes.
Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large nonstick pan over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for 2-3 minutes until fully cooked.
Reduce heat to medium, add minced garlic, and cook for 30 seconds. Add the sauce mixture and cook until it thickens into a glaze. Remove from heat.
Wet your hands and scoop 1/3 cup of rice into your palm. Make a well in the center, fill it with 1 tablespoon of the chicken mixture, then cover with another 1/3 cup of rice and shape it into a triangle. Wrap with a strip of nori.
Serve as a snack or part of a meal, optionally with a dipping sauce like soy sauce.

how to serve Chicken Rice Balls

You can serve Chicken Rice Balls as snacks or add them to a meal. They pair wonderfully with a light dipping sauce, such as soy sauce or a spicy mayo. These rice balls are also great for sharing at gatherings or parties.

how to store Chicken Rice Balls

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last for up to 2-3 days. If you want to keep them for longer, you can freeze them. Just make sure to wrap them well in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer bag.

tips to make Chicken Rice Balls

It’s helpful to wet your hands when shaping the rice balls to prevent the rice from sticking.
If you want to add more flavor, consider including minced vegetables or sesame seeds in your rice mixture.
Make sure not to overcook the chicken; it should be juicy and tender.

variation

You can customize your Chicken Rice Balls by using different fillings. For example, you could use shrimp, tofu, or even vegetables for a vegetarian option. You can also try different toppings or dipping sauces to enhance the flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I use leftover rice for this recipe?
Yes, leftover rice works fine as long as it is sticky enough to hold the shape.

2. Is furikake necessary for this recipe?
No, furikake is optional. You can still make delicious rice balls without it, or you can substitute it with other seasonings.

3. Can I make these rice balls in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the rice balls in advance, but they are best enjoyed fresh. Store them in the fridge and eat them within a few days.