Name: Crispy Chicken Tempura Roll
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 cup short-grain rice; 1¼ cups cold water; 2 tablespoons rice vinegar; 1 tablespoon sugar; 1 tablespoon salt; 1 chicken breast (about 8 oz); ½ cup plain flour; ½ cup corn flour (cornstarch); ½ teaspoon salt + ¼ teaspoon black pepper; 1½ cups neutral cooking oil; 1 nori sheet; 1 ripe avocado; White and black sesame seeds

When it comes to sushi, there’s something incredibly satisfying about preparing it right at home, especially when you can create a special dish like the Crispy Chicken Tempura Roll. This Japanese-inspired delicacy showcases mouthwatering tempura chicken wrapped snugly in seasoned rice and nori, offering both crunch and creamy textures in each bite. Whether you’re hosting a sushi night or simply treating yourself to flavorful cuisine, this recipe promises a restaurant-quality experience without the long wait or hefty price tag.

One of the best aspects of the Crispy Chicken Tempura Roll is its ease of preparation. Made in just 30 minutes, this dish is not only delicious but also a fun way to involve family or friends in the kitchen. If you’re new to sushi-making, this recipe breaks down the process into manageable steps, giving you the confidence to roll your sushi like a pro. With a handful of simple ingredients and straightforward techniques, you’ll discover how enjoyable and rewarding homemade sushi can be. So gather your ingredients, and let’s dive into making these delightful rolls!

Why You’ll Love This Crispy Chicken Tempura Roll

There are several fantastic reasons why the Crispy Chicken Tempura Roll deserves a spot on your menu:

Delicious Flavor: The combination of crispy fried chicken and creamy avocado wrapped in sushi rice leads to an exquisite flavor profile.
Quick Preparation: With a total cooking time of only 30 minutes, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights or when entertaining guests.
Fun Cooking Experience: Sushi making can be a great bonding activity, perfect for family and friends to gather around the kitchen table.
Customizable: You can easily customize the filling by adding your favorite vegetables or sauces to suit your taste.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before embarking on your sushi-making adventure, it’s essential to prep your kitchen effectively to ensure smooth sailing throughout the process. Start by gathering all your ingredients and tools. You’ll need a pot for cooking rice, a bamboo sushi mat for rolling, bowls for mixing and coating chicken, and a sharp knife for slicing your finished sushi rolls. Having everything within reach streamlines your workflow and keeps the cooking space tidy.

It’s also a good idea to prepare your workspace by wiping down surfaces and ensuring utensils are clean. Fluff the rice with a fork before it cools down, and set aside your ingredients strategically so you can assemble the rolls quickly. To ensure even cooking, maintain your oil temperature consistently at 350°F (175°C) for perfect golden tempura chicken. This preparation will help you enjoy the process and avoid any last-minute stress!

Ingredients

1 cup short-grain rice
1¼ cups cold water
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
1 tablespoon sugar
1 tablespoon salt
1 chicken breast (about 8 oz)
½ cup plain flour
½ cup corn flour (cornstarch)
½ teaspoon salt + ¼ teaspoon black pepper
1½ cups neutral cooking oil
1 nori sheet
1 ripe avocado
White and black sesame seeds

Instructions

Step 1: Rinse and Cook the Rice

Begin this delightful sushi journey by rinsing the short-grain rice. Rinse it thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear, which usually takes about three to four rinses. This step is crucial as it removes excess starch, ensuring your rice cooks to a non-sticky, fluffy texture. After rinsing, combine the rice with cold water in a pot using a ratio of 1:1.25. Bring it to a boil on high heat before lowering the heat and covering the pot tightly. Simmer on low for precisely 12 minutes, then let the rice steam off the heat for another 10 minutes to finish cooking.

Step 2: Season the Rice

Once your rice is perfectly cooked, it’s time to season it. In a small bowl, mix together rice vinegar, sugar, and salt until the ingredients are well combined. While the rice is still warm, gently fold in this vinegar mixture using a spatula or wooden spoon. Take care to avoid mashing the rice; instead, use a gentle folding motion to incorporate the seasoning evenly. This step will impart a subtle, tangy flavor to the rice, which is essential for an authentic sushi taste.

Step 3: Prepare the Chicken

While the rice is cooling, slice your chicken breast into ½-inch strips against the grain. This method ensures tenderness and better textures in every bite. Now, create a double-flour coating system to achieve that signature crispy texture. In one bowl, mix plain flour with half of the salt and pepper. In a separate bowl, combine corn flour with the remaining seasonings. Roll each chicken strip in the plain flour mixture first, then dip into the corn flour to create the crunchy layer.

Step 4: Fry the Chicken

Heat the neutral cooking oil in a deep pan or fryer to exactly 350°F (175°C). The right oil temperature is critical to ensure the chicken fries properly without soaking up excess oil. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the coated chicken strips in small batches, frying them for 3-4 minutes until they reach a beautiful honey-gold color. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fried chicken to a wire rack to drain any excess oil and keep them crisp.

Step 5: Assemble the Sushi Rolls

Now for the exciting part! Lay a sheet of nori, shiny side down, on your bamboo mat. Spread an even layer of seasoned rice over the nori, leaving about a 1-inch border at the top. About ⅓ of the way from the bottom edge of the nori, place 2-3 tempura chicken strips end-to-end, adding slices of avocado along the sides. With the fillings in place, gently lift the edge of the bamboo mat closest to you, folding the nori over the fillings while applying even pressure as you roll forward. Continue this motion, using the mat to shape the roll tightly but be cautious not to squash the sushi.

Step 6: Slice and Serve

Once you’ve rolled your sushi, grab a sharp knife. To ensure clean cuts, wetting the knife blade helps prevent the rice from sticking. Firmly slice the roll into bite-sized pieces, serving your Crispy Chicken Tempura Rolls with ample dips of soy sauce, pickled ginger, or wasabi if desired. This will enhance your culinary experience and delight everyone at the table.

Variations

Protein: Substitute fried chicken with shrimp tempura, tofu, or even grilled salmon for different flavors.
Vegetables: Add julienned cucumber, colorful bell peppers, or shredded carrots alongside the chicken and avocado for extra crunch and nutrition.
Spices: Experiment with spices in the flour mix or drizzle with spicy mayo for an exciting kick.

Cooking Notes

Ensure you keep the oil at the right temperature for frying to achieve that golden-brown color without overcooking.
If you prefer a healthier version, consider baking the chicken strips instead for a lighter option.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a side of edamame or seaweed salad for a complete meal.
Pair with your favorite dipping sauces like teriyaki, soy sauce, or sweet chili sauce.

Tips

For authentic sushi, consider using short-grain sushi rice that is stickier and holds well when rolled.
Keep your hands wet while handling the rice to prevent it from sticking during assembly.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 500 kcal per serving
Protein: About 25 g
Sodium: 600 mg

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of short-grain rice?

While brown rice can be used, it has a different texture and will require longer cooking times. Short-grain rice is recommended for sushi because of its stickiness.

How do I make the chicken extra crispy?

For added crunch, make sure your oil is hot enough before frying and ensure that the chicken has a good coating of both flours.

Can I prepare the rolls in advance?

It’s best to consume sushi rolls shortly after assembly for optimal freshness, but you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and assemble them just before serving.

What dipping sauce pairs well with this roll?

Soy sauce, spicy mayo, and eel sauce complement these crispy rolls beautifully, enhancing the overall flavor.

Conclusion

Your newly mastered Crispy Chicken Tempura Roll is not just a dish but an experience! This easy sushi recipe is crafted to suit both novice and seasoned cooks, bringing the joy of homemade sushi right to your kitchen. With just a handful of ingredients, you are equipped to impress your family and friends, leaving them craving more. Remember, the key to great sushi lies in the quality of your ingredients, technique, and a sprinkle of creativity. So don’t hesitate to experiment with fillings and flavors, letting your culinary imagination run wild. If you enjoyed making this dish, be sure to share your variations and tips in the comments below!