How to Make Perfect Benihana Chicken Fried Rice: Step-by-Step Guide

Estimated reading time: 9 minutes

What is Benihana Chicken Fried Rice?

Benihana Chicken Fried Rice is a signature dish served at the popular Benihana Japanese restaurant chain. It is a flavorful and savory rice dish made with perfectly cooked chicken, vegetables, and a variety of seasonings. This dish is typically prepared on a hibachi grill, which adds a distinctive smoky flavor to the ingredients. The rice is stir-fried with eggs, soy sauce, and other essential spices, creating a balanced combination of flavors.

The key to the dish’s appeal lies in its ability to incorporate simple ingredients into a delightful and satisfying meal. Chicken, being the primary protein, is seasoned and cooked to tender perfection, while the rice, a staple of Asian cuisine, soaks up the rich flavors. On top of that, the added vegetables such as onions, peas, and carrots provide a burst of freshness and texture.

Benihana Chicken Fried Rice is known for its vibrant color and unique taste, which has made it a popular choice among food enthusiasts worldwide. Many people seek to replicate this dish at home due to its mouth-watering flavor and easy preparation. Whether you enjoy it as a main dish or paired with other hibachi meals, Benihana Chicken Fried Rice offers a delightful culinary experience with every bite.

For another mouthwatering option, check out our “creamy parmesan Italian sausage soup recipe“.

This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience of dining at the hibachi grill, where chefs entertain guests with impressive cooking skills, adding to the overall enjoyment of the meal.

Key Ingredients in Benihana Chicken Fried Rice

The delicious Benihana Chicken Fried Rice relies on a few key ingredients that work together to create a perfect balance of flavors and textures. These ingredients are common in Japanese and hibachi-style cooking, yet their combination makes this dish truly special. Let’s take a closer look at each one:

• Chicken: The primary protein in Benihana Chicken Fried Rice is boneless, skinless chicken breast or thigh. The chicken is typically diced into small pieces to ensure even cooking and tender bites in every spoonful. It is seasoned with soy sauce and sometimes garlic, giving it a savory base.
  
• Rice: Long-grain white rice or jasmine rice is used for its fluffy texture and ability to absorb flavors. The rice is usually day-old to prevent it from being too sticky when fried, allowing the ingredients to mix more easily.
  
• Eggs: Eggs are a fundamental part of fried rice, offering richness and moisture. They are scrambled and mixed through the rice to add both texture and flavor, giving it that signature “fried rice” consistency.
  
• Vegetables: A mix of vegetables like onions, peas, and carrots provide a burst of color, crunch, and nutrients. These vegetables are usually chopped finely to blend seamlessly into the rice while adding freshness.
  
• Soy Sauce: Soy sauce brings umami, giving the dish its depth of flavor. It also imparts a savory, slightly salty taste that complements the chicken and vegetables.
  
• Butter or Oil: Used for frying, butter or oil helps achieve the perfect crispiness and adds richness to the dish.
  

These essential ingredients come together to create the irresistible taste of Benihana Chicken Fried Rice, offering a perfect combination of savory, fresh, and satisfying flavors.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Benihana Chicken Fried Rice

Creating a delicious plate of Benihana Chicken Fried Rice at home is easier than you might think. Follow these simple steps for a restaurant-quality dish:

1. Prepare the Ingredients:
   Begin by gathering all your ingredients. Dice the chicken into small pieces, chop the vegetables (carrots, peas, and onions), and cook the rice a day ahead. Using cold, day-old rice will help achieve the perfect texture. Beat the eggs in a bowl and set them aside.
   
2. Cook the Chicken:
   Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of oil or butter. Add the diced chicken and sauté until it is fully cooked and lightly browned. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper for extra flavor. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
   
3. Scramble the Eggs:
   In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if necessary. Pour the beaten eggs into the pan, stirring continuously, until they are scrambled and fully cooked. Push the eggs to one side of the pan.
   
4. Sauté the Vegetables:
   Add the chopped vegetables (onions, carrots, and peas) into the skillet. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, allowing them to soften and release their natural flavors.
   
5. Combine the Rice:
   Add the cold rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps. Stir the rice with the vegetables and eggs, ensuring everything is evenly mixed.
   
6. Add Soy Sauce and Chicken:
   Pour in the soy sauce and return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Stir everything together, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until the rice is heated through and the flavors are well incorporated.
   
7. Serve and Enjoy:
   Once everything is mixed and hot, serve your homemade Benihana Chicken Fried Rice with a garnish of fresh green onions or additional soy sauce, if desired. Enjoy your flavorful, hibachi-style meal!
   

Pro Tips for Making Perfect Benihana Chicken Fried Rice

To take your Benihana Chicken Fried Rice to the next level, here are some expert tips that will help you achieve restaurant-quality results every time:

• Use Day-Old Rice: For the best texture, always use rice that has been cooked and cooled overnight. Freshly cooked rice tends to be too sticky, while day-old rice is firmer and less likely to become mushy when stir-fried.
  
• Control the Heat: Make sure your skillet or wok is hot before adding ingredients. Cooking over medium-high heat ensures the chicken and vegetables get a nice sear, adding depth to the flavor. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as it can lower the temperature and prevent proper stir-frying.
  
• Season Gradually: Add soy sauce in small amounts and taste as you go. This helps to control the saltiness and ensures the rice doesn’t become too salty. You can also adjust the flavor by adding a dash of garlic powder or a splash of sesame oil for an extra layer of flavor.
  
• Don’t Overcook the Vegetables: Stir-fry the vegetables just until they’re tender but still vibrant and crisp. Overcooking them can result in a mushy texture and lost flavor.
  
• Add a Protein Twist: While chicken is the classic choice, feel free to experiment with shrimp, beef, or even tofu for a different twist on this dish. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly for each protein.
  

By following these pro tips, your Benihana Chicken Fried Rice will have that authentic hibachi-style flavor and perfect texture!

Storing and Reheating Benihana Chicken Fried Rice

To enjoy your Benihana Chicken Fried Rice at a later time, it’s important to store and reheat it properly to maintain its flavor and texture. Here’s how:

Storing:

1. Cool Quickly: After cooking, allow the fried rice to cool down to room temperature. To prevent bacteria growth, do not leave it at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
2. Store in an Airtight Container: Place the cooled rice in an airtight container. This helps to preserve the freshness and prevent it from absorbing odors from other foods in the refrigerator.
3. Refrigerate: Store the container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The rice should be consumed within this time frame to ensure the best quality and safety.

Reheating:

1. Stovetop Method: To reheat, place the fried rice in a pan or skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of oil or butter and stir constantly, allowing the rice to heat evenly. This method helps retain the original texture and flavor.
2. Microwave Method: Alternatively, you can reheat the rice in the microwave. Place it in a microwave-safe bowl, cover with a damp paper towel, and microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval to ensure even heating.

By following these storing and reheating tips, your Benihana Chicken Fried Rice will remain tasty and fresh, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers.

Why You Will Love Benihana Chicken Fried Rice

Benihana Chicken Fried Rice is more than just a meal—it’s a delightful culinary experience that combines bold flavors, satisfying textures, and the comfort of a familiar favorite. Whether you’re dining at a Benihana restaurant or recreating it in your own kitchen, this dish is sure to impress with its delicious balance of tender chicken, perfectly seasoned rice, and vibrant vegetables.

The best part about this recipe is its versatility. You can customize it with different proteins, adjust the seasoning to your liking, or even add more vegetables for a healthier option. The quick and easy preparation makes it a perfect choice for busy weeknights, meal prep, or casual family dinners.

The rich, savory flavor of Benihana Chicken Fried Rice comes from the careful combination of ingredients, and the stir-frying method helps preserve the individual flavors of each component. The result is a dish that is both comforting and exciting, offering a taste of hibachi-style cooking from the comfort of your own home.

Once you try making this dish, it’s easy to see why so many people love it. It’s a versatile, crowd-pleasing meal that’s packed with flavor and satisfying enough to be enjoyed on its own or as a side to other hibachi dishes. Whether you’re an experienced cook or a beginner, Benihana Chicken Fried Rice will quickly become one of your go-to recipes.

Benihana Chicken Fried Rice

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• Author: Chloe
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

 

A delicious and easy-to-make version of the classic Benihana chicken fried rice, featuring tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and perfectly cooked rice stir-fried with savory soy sauce. Perfect for a quick, flavorful meal at home.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
• 4 cups cold, cooked jasmine rice (preferably day-old)
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1/2 cup frozen peas
• 1/2 cup carrots, diced
• 1/2 cup onions, chopped
• 2 tbsp soy sauce (adjust to taste)
• 2 tbsp butter or vegetable oil
• 1 tbsp sesame oil (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

• Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat and add 1 tbsp of oil or butter.
• Add diced chicken to the pan and sauté until browned and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
• In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of butter or oil. Pour in beaten eggs, stirring continuously until scrambled. Push eggs to one side.
• Add the chopped onions, carrots, and peas. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until softened.
• Add the cold rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps. Stir to combine with vegetables and eggs.
• Pour soy sauce and sesame oil (optional) over the rice, stirring well. Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet and stir everything together.
• Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to combine and the rice to heat through.
• Garnish with chopped green onions and serve.

Notes

• For the best results, use day-old rice to prevent the fried rice from becoming too soggy.
• Feel free to substitute chicken with shrimp, beef, or tofu for a different protein option.
• You can adjust the amount of soy sauce depending on your salt preference.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stir-frying
• Cuisine: Japanese

Nutrition

• Calories: 350
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Protein: 28g

Keywords: Benihana chicken fried rice, hibachi fried rice, chicken fried rice recipe, homemade fried rice, easy fried rice, Japanese fried rice

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