Starting Tuesday, March 10, 2026, 7-Eleven Japan will release its new “Dashi-Scented Japanese Chicken (Made with Domestic Chicken)” in limited quantities at stores across Japan. This product was developed using techniques inspired by “Tempura,” a traditional Japanese cooking method. Featuring a light, crispy texture and the rich aroma of “Dashi” (savory broth)—the key to Japanese cuisine—this item is designed to add a touch of luxury to your daily meal.
This latest release isn’t just a simple chicken snack; it is specifically designed as an “Okaazu” (side dish) that pairs perfectly with white rice and Japan’s soul food, the “Onigiri” (Rice Ball). Whether for a busy workday lunch or an extra dish for dinner, here is a closer look at the craftsmanship behind 7-Eleven’s new specialty chicken.
Product Overview: What is the “Dashi-Scented Japanese Chicken”?
First, let’s look at the basic information for this release. While it will be available at 7-Eleven locations nationwide in Japan, quantities are limited, so early purchase is recommended.
- Product Name: Dashi-Scented Japanese Chicken (Made with Domestic Chicken)
- Price: 167 yen (180.36 yen including tax / approx. $1.20)
- Release Date: Rolling out from Tuesday, March 10, 2026
- Sales Area: 7-Eleven stores across Japan
- Key Features: A crispy coating inspired by tempura, 100% domestic Japanese chicken, and the flavor of “Awase-dashi” (blended broth) using multiple ingredients.
Despite the affordable price of around 180 yen (approx. $1.20), the use of high-quality domestic chicken makes it highly appealing. It offers enough volume to satisfy both as a quick snack and as a main dish.
The Secret of the “Crispy Coating” Inspired by Tempura
The most distinctive feature of this product is its specially developed “Saku-goromo” (Crispy Coating). While typical fried chicken is known for a thick batter and pungent spices, this product aims for a contrasting light and delicate texture.
The inspiration came from Tempura, a cornerstone of Japanese cuisine. Developers went through multiple rounds of prototyping to recreate that signature tempura crunch that feels light and airy as it dissolves in the mouth. The result is an exquisite balance—crispy on the outside, yet never too heavy. Even those who find standard fried chicken batter too greasy will likely be surprised by this pleasant, artisan-like texture.
The Rich Aroma of “Awase-dashi” – The Soul of Japanese Flavor
In addition to its texture, the core of the flavor lies in the “Dashi.” Unlike typical Western-style fried chicken, this product uses “Awase-dashi” (blended broth) as its base, a flavor most familiar to the Japanese palate.
The flavor is defined by “Awase-dashi,” which combines extracts from multiple ingredients like Katsuobushi (bonito flakes). When this blends with the juicy juices of the domestic chicken, an elegant Umami spreads through your mouth with every bite. The gentle flavor profile, based on soy sauce and designed to highlight the natural taste of the ingredients, truly reflects the spirit of Japanese cuisine. It offers a rich aromatic experience that is hard to believe comes from a “hot snack” counter at a convenience store.
The Perfect Match for Onigiri! Recommended Ways to Enjoy It
7-Eleven representatives strongly recommend pairing this chicken with an “Onigiri” (Rice Ball). The dashi flavor maximizes the natural sweetness of the rice, revealing the product’s true potential when eaten together.
Here are the most recommended pairings:
- Shio-musubi (Simple Salted Rice Ball) A simple salted rice ball without any fillings is the best partner to experience the chicken’s dashi flavor directly. The sweetness of the rice and the savory Umami layer together, providing the satisfaction of a full meal at a Japanese restaurant.
- Harmony with Plum or Kelp Onigiri The acidity of “Ume” (pickled plum) or the deep Umami of “Konbu” (kelp) goes wonderfully with the dashi in the Japanese-style chicken. These “Wa” (Japanese) elements resonate with each other, turning a quick lunch break into a richer, more relaxing time.
Even during a busy workday, simply adding this chicken to an onigiri elevates the quality of your meal. It is the ideal combination for those who seek convenience without compromising on the quality of their food.
Limited Quantities! Check Your Local 7-Eleven in Japan
7-Eleven’s new “Dashi-Scented Japanese Chicken” will be released sequentially across Japan starting March 10. As it is a limited-quantity item, those who wish to try it are encouraged to visit their nearest store soon.
The crispy coating like tempura and the deep Umami of dashi create a whole new sensation. This single piece of chicken will surely make your usual “onigiri life” much more enjoyable. When you smell the savory aroma of dashi wafting from the warm food display next to the register, you’ll know a happy lunchtime is about to begin.
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