Japanese Chicken & Egg Rice Bowl

Oyakodon is a comforting and flavorful Japanese rice bowl featuring tender chicken and silky eggs simmered in a savory-sweet sauce, then served over steamed rice. The name “oyakodon” (親子丼) translates to “parent and child bowl,” referring to the combination of chicken and egg. This quick and easy dish is perfect for a satisfying meal, offering a balance of protein, carbohydrates, and umami-rich flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes, making it a perfect meal for busy days.
• One-Pan Dish – Minimal cleanup with everything cooked in a single pan.
• Authentic Japanese Flavor – The combination of dashi, soy sauce, mirin, and sake creates a delicious umami-rich sauce.
• Customizable – Adjust the sweetness or add extra toppings like nori or shichimi togarashi for spice.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Chicken & Egg Mixture

• Boneless chicken thigh, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Onion, thinly sliced
• Eggs, lightly beaten
• Dashi stock (or water with dashi powder)
• Soy sauce
• Mirin
• Sake
• Sugar
• Green onion, sliced (for garnish)

For the Rice

• Cooked Japanese short-grain rice

Directions

Prepare the Sauce

1. In a small pan, combine dashi stock, soy sauce, mirin, sake, and sugar.
2. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat.

Cook the Chicken & Onion

1. Add the sliced onions and chicken pieces to the simmering sauce.
2. Cover and cook for about 5 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.

Add the Egg

1. Slowly drizzle the beaten eggs over the chicken mixture in a circular motion.
2. Cover and cook for another minute until the egg is just set but still slightly runny.

Assemble the Oyakodon

1. Place warm cooked rice in a serving bowl.
2. Gently pour the chicken and egg mixture over the rice.

Garnish & Serve

1. Top with sliced green onions for freshness.
2. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 1–2 people
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Oyakodon – Sprinkle shichimi togarashi (Japanese seven-spice) for a kick.
• Extra Vegetables – Add mushrooms, spinach, or bok choy for added nutrition.
• Richer Flavor – Use a mix of chicken thigh and breast for different textures.
• Low-Carb Option – Serve over cauliflower rice or shredded cabbage instead of regular rice.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: Warm in a pan over low heat or microwave in short bursts, adding a splash of water if needed.
• Meal Prep Tip: Prepare the sauce and chicken in advance for an even quicker meal.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of chicken thigh?

Yes, but chicken thighs are more tender and flavorful. If using breast, be careful not to overcook it.

What if I don’t have dashi?

You can use water with dashi powder, chicken broth, or even a light vegetable broth.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, substitute chicken with tofu or mushrooms and use a plant-based dashi alternative.

How do I prevent the eggs from overcooking?

Turn off the heat as soon as the eggs are slightly set but still soft. They will continue cooking from residual heat.

Can I add other toppings?

Absolutely! Popular additions include shredded nori, sesame seeds, or pickled ginger.

Is oyakodon served hot or cold?

It is best served hot for the best texture and flavor.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, but simmer it in the sauce briefly to allow the flavors to absorb before adding the eggs.

What type of rice works best?

Japanese short-grain rice is ideal for its sticky texture, but medium-grain rice also works.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, but cook in batches to ensure even cooking and proper sauce absorption.

How do I thicken the sauce?

If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix a small amount of cornstarch with water and stir it in before adding the eggs.

Conclusion

Oyakodon is the ultimate comfort food, offering a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors with tender chicken and silky eggs over warm rice. Whether you’re making a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch, this easy one-pan dish is sure to become a favorite. Try different variations and enjoy a homemade taste of Japan!