Who doesn’t love the show-stopping experience of dining at Benihana? Between the dazzling knife tricks and the savory aromas wafting from the grill, it’s a meal you don’t forget. The way the chefs juggle eggs and create onion volcanoes is pure entertainment—and don’t even get me started on the taste. There’s something about the combination of fresh ingredients, sizzling grills, and that special garlic butter that makes every bite unforgettable. Lets look closer to Benihana Chicken Fried Rice Recipe.
But let’s be real—it’s not always practical (or affordable) to eat out. Sometimes you’re just craving those flavors but want to skip the hassle of reservations or a long wait. That’s why I’ve crafted this recipe to help you recreate Benihana Chicken Fried Rice right in your own kitchen. You’ll get all the flavor, none of the fuss. Plus, cooking it yourself means you can tweak the recipe exactly to your liking. Want more garlic butter? Go for it! Prefer extra chicken? Pile it on! Trust me, it’s easier than you think, super fun to make, and every bit as satisfying as the restaurant version.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s a list of what you’ll need for this flavorful dish. Most of these are pantry staples, but feel free to substitute based on what you have.
Fried Rice:
- 3 cups cooked white rice (day-old rice works best)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or any neutral oil like canola)
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots, thawed
- ¼ cup green onions, finely chopped
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garlic Butter (the secret sauce!):
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- A pinch of salt
Step-by-Step Instructions – Benihana Chicken Fried Rice
1. Prep Your Ingredients
Before you start cooking, make sure everything is ready to go. Dice the chicken, thaw your veggies, and beat the eggs. If you’re using fresh rice, spread it out on a baking sheet and pop it in the fridge for 20 minutes to dry out a bit.
2. Make the Garlic Butter
This is the magic ingredient that gives Benihana’s fried rice its signature flavor. In a small bowl, mix the softened butter, minced garlic, soy sauce, and a pinch of salt. Set it aside for later.
3. Cook the Eggs
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Pour in the beaten eggs and scramble until just set. Remove the eggs from the pan and set aside.
4. Stir-Fry the Chicken
In the same pan, add another tablespoon of oil. Toss in the diced chicken and stir-fry until it’s heated through and slightly golden. If you’re starting with raw chicken, cook it completely before moving on. Set the chicken aside with the eggs.
5. Cook the Veggies
Add the thawed peas and carrots to the pan. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until they’re tender and lightly browned. If you’re feeling fancy, you can toss in a little extra sesame oil here for more flavor.
6. Add the Rice
Push the veggies to one side of the pan and add the cold rice to the empty space. Use your spatula to break up any clumps and let the rice fry for a couple of minutes. Then, mix everything together.
7. Season and Combine
Drizzle the soy sauce and sesame oil over the rice and toss to coat evenly. Stir in the scrambled eggs, chicken, and green onions. Finally, mix in the garlic butter and stir until it’s melted and evenly distributed. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
If you’re all about easy and flavorful dinners, don’t miss my Quick and Delicious Dinner Recipes collection. It’s packed with ideas for meals that are perfect for busy weeknights or when you just want something tasty without spending hours in the kitchen. Trust me, these recipes will become your new favorites!
Tips for Perfect Fried Rice
- Use Day-Old Rice: Freshly cooked rice can be too moist and sticky. If you don’t have leftover rice, spread freshly cooked rice on a baking sheet and refrigerate it for at least 20 minutes. Using cold, dry rice helps you achieve that ideal fluffy texture where each grain is separate and perfectly fried.Another trick? You can even freeze freshly cooked rice for 10-15 minutes to speed up the cooling process. Just make sure it doesn’t clump together when freezing.
- High Heat is Key: Cook everything over medium-high to high heat. This helps achieve that slightly crispy texture that’s so irresistible. When you’re cooking at a higher temperature, the ingredients sear instead of steaming, which locks in flavor and adds a slight char—just like the hibachi grills at Benihana.Also, use a heavy-bottomed skillet or wok. These pans distribute heat more evenly, helping you avoid hot spots that might burn your rice or veggies.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If your pan is too full, the ingredients will steam instead of fry. Cook in batches if needed. For example, fry the rice separately from the veggies and meat, then combine everything at the end. It might take a little longer, but the texture will be so much better.Pro tip: Always give your ingredients a bit of space in the pan. This ensures even cooking and helps prevent sticking.
- Customize It: Feel free to add shrimp, beef, or tofu instead of chicken. You can also toss in extra veggies like bell peppers or zucchini. Want a Hawaiian twist? Throw in some pineapple chunks for a sweet-and-savory vibe.Don’t be afraid to experiment with flavors either. A sprinkle of Japanese furikake seasoning or a splash of mirin can add an extra dimension to the dish.
Serving Suggestions
This chicken fried rice is a complete meal on its own, but if you’re looking to create a full-on hibachi dinner at home, pairing it with some sides can truly elevate the experience. Here are a few ideas that will bring restaurant-quality flair to your table:
Hibachi Vegetables:
Stir-fried zucchini, mushrooms, and onions seasoned with soy sauce and garlic. You can add a sprinkle of sesame seeds or a drizzle of teriyaki sauce to make them even more delicious. These veggies are quick to prepare and perfectly complement the savory fried rice.
Miso Soup:
Start your meal with this light and comforting soup made from miso paste, tofu, seaweed, and green onions. It’s easy to whip up in just a few minutes and sets the tone for a Japanese-inspired feast.
Looking for the perfect starter? Pair your chicken fried rice with a comforting bowl of miso soup. It’s light, flavorful, and super easy to make at home. Check out this guide to Easy Homemade Miso Soup Recipes for simple steps to whip up this classic Japanese favorite.
Gyoza or Dumplings:
Pan-fried or steamed, these delightful pockets of goodness can be filled with pork, chicken, or vegetables. Many grocery stores carry frozen gyoza that you can cook up in minutes. Serve them with a side of soy dipping sauce for that authentic touch.
Cucumber Salad:
A refreshing side that adds a crisp, tangy element to your meal. Slice cucumbers thinly and toss them with rice vinegar, a touch of sugar, sesame oil, and chili flakes for a salad that balances out the richness of the fried rice.
Egg Rolls:
Crispy, golden, and packed with savory fillings, egg rolls are always a hit. Pair them with sweet chili sauce or plum sauce for dipping, and you’ve got a side that’s sure to impress.
Tempura:
If you’re feeling adventurous, try making tempura—lightly battered and fried shrimp or vegetables. It adds a crunchy, indulgent element to the meal and is always a crowd-pleaser.
With these sides, you’ll not only recreate the Benihana experience but also treat your taste buds to a complete and satisfying meal at home.
FAQs about Benihana Chicken Fried Rice
1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Absolutely! Brown rice adds a nutty flavor and is a healthier option. Just make sure it’s cooked and cooled before frying. It takes a little longer to cook initially, but it holds up well during stir-frying and offers a slightly chewier texture.
2. What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store the fried rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet with a splash of oil or water to bring it back to life. Avoid microwaving if you can, as it can make the rice mushy.
3. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Sure! Skip the chicken and add extra vegetables or tofu. You can also use plant-based soy sauce. A handful of cashews or edamame makes a great protein-packed addition for vegetarians.
4. Is there a gluten-free version?
Yes! Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari. Double-check that all other ingredients, like sesame oil, are gluten-free. Many grocery stores now carry gluten-free versions of these staples, so it’s easier than ever to adapt the recipe.
5. Can I freeze fried rice?
You bet! Let the fried rice cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat straight from frozen in a skillet to maintain the texture. Add a splash of water or broth to keep it from drying out.
Wrapping It Up – Benihana Chicken Fried Rice Recipe
So there you have it—Benihana’s famous chicken fried rice, no fancy teppanyaki grill required. This isn’t just a recipe; it’s an opportunity to bring the magic of hibachi dining straight to your table. Imagine the satisfaction of creating a dish that’s just as delicious as the restaurant version—but tailored exactly to your tastes. Whether you’re craving a comforting solo meal after a long day or planning a fun family dinner with a touch of flair, this fried rice will always deliver.
The best part? It’s completely customizable. Want more veggies? Toss in some bell peppers, broccoli, or even edamame. Love the richness of garlic butter? Don’t hold back—add an extra dollop. Craving some spice? A pinch of chili flakes or a splash of sriracha can take it to the next level. This recipe isn’t just a meal; it’s your canvas for culinary creativity. With just a little effort, you’ll have a dish that not only satisfies your cravings but also earns you serious kitchen bragging rights.