Chicken Sushi Cups are a fun twist on traditional sushi! They feature tasty chicken, fresh veggies, and a splash of rice, all tucked into adorable little cups that are easy to handle.
They’re perfect for parties or a simple dinner at home. I love how they look fancy but are super easy to put together. Plus, who doesn’t love food that you can eat with your hands? 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Nori Seaweed: This is essential for holding the sushi cups together. If you’re not a fan of nori, try using rice paper instead, which provides a different texture and flavor.
Sushi Rice: Sushi rice is sticky and holds together well. If you don’t have it, use short-grain rice as an alternative. Just add a splash of rice vinegar for that sushi flavor!
Chicken: I like using rotisserie chicken for this recipe; it’s tasty and saves time. You can also use shredded turkey or tofu if you’re looking for a vegetarian option.
Avocado: Fresh avocado adds creaminess. If it’s not in season, substitute with diced cucumbers for a fresh crunch.
Teriyaki/Hoisin Sauce: These sauces add a sweet and savory touch. If you want a healthier option, a simple mix of soy sauce and a little honey works well!
How Do You Get the Nori Cups to Hold Their Shape?
Shaping the nori sheets into cups can be tricky. Here’s how to do it right: First, make sure you lightly oil the muffin tin so the nori doesn’t stick.
- Cut each nori sheet into quarters, so you have manageable squares.
- Press each square gently into the muffin cup, folding the corners as needed to create a cup shape.
- Fill with sushi rice and avoid overfilling; a bit snug helps them keep their shape!
- Use your fingers to shape the rice firmly, but don’t squish it too hard.
By following these tips, you can make perfect little cups for your chicken sushi, ready to be enjoyed!
Chicken Sushi Cups
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 sheets nori seaweed
- 1 1/2 cups cooked sushi rice (prepared with rice vinegar, sugar, and salt)
- 1 cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 1 medium avocado, diced
- 1 medium carrot, shredded
- 2 tbsp teriyaki or hoisin sauce (for drizzling)
- 2 tbsp finely chopped green onions (for garnish)
- Soy sauce (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes total. It includes roughly 15 minutes for preparation and cooking your sushi rice, and about 15 minutes for assembly. Perfect for a quick lunch or a fun dinner with friends!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Rice:
Start by making your sushi rice. Follow the package instructions to cook it perfectly. Once done, mix in 2 tablespoons of rice vinegar, 1 tablespoon of sugar, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Let it cool down while you prepare the other ingredients.
2. Cut the Nori:
Take each nori sheet and, using a sharp knife, cut them into quarters. This will give you 16 smaller squares, perfect for making little cups.
3. Prepare the Muffin Tin:
Lightly spray your muffin tin with cooking spray or brush a little oil into each cup. This helps the nori not stick when you bake them!
4. Shape the Nori Cups:
Now, gently press each nori square into the muffin cups to form a cup shape. Don’t worry if it doesn’t look perfect; they’ll hold up once filled.
5. Add the Sushi Rice:
Take about 2 tablespoons of the cooled sushi rice and place it in each nori cup. Press down lightly to shape it into a firm base.
6. Top with Chicken:
Spread the shredded chicken evenly on top of the rice in each cup. This adds protein and flavor!
7. Add Fresh Veggies:
Next, sprinkle the shredded carrot and diced avocado around and on top of the chicken. These add freshness and crunch!
8. Drizzle the Sauce:
Take your teriyaki or hoisin sauce and drizzle a little over each cup. This will give it a delightful flavor boost!
9. Garnish:
Finish by sprinkling the cups with chopped green onions for an extra touch of flavor and color.
10. Serve:
Enjoy your Chicken Sushi Cups immediately while they’re fresh! Serve them with soy sauce on the side for dipping.
Enjoy your delicious and easy-to-eat Chicken Sushi Cups! They’re sure to impress!
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of Sushi Rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice! Just keep in mind that it won’t have the same sticky texture as sushi rice. To help it hold together better, you can add a bit of rice vinegar and sugar as you cook it.
What Can I Substitute for Nori?
If you don’t have nori, try using rice paper wraps or lettuce leaves for a fresh alternative. Rice paper adds a nice chewiness, while lettuce keeps things light and crunchy!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover sushi cups in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the nori may become less crispy over time, so it’s best to enjoy them fresh!
Can I Make These Sushi Cups Vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply replace the chicken with sliced tofu, tempeh, or even more veggies like bell peppers and mushrooms. Get creative with your filling choices!
