Benihana Chicken Fried Rice Recipe is a simple yet flavor-packed meal that brings the iconic Japanese steakhouse taste right into your kitchen. Juicy chicken, seasoned rice, and a blend of veggies come together in just a few quick steps. It’s the perfect fix when you crave a restaurant-quality dish without leaving home.
Ever find yourself stuck with bland, overcooked chicken that just never seems to satisfy? Whether the rice turns mushy or the flavors fall flat, creating that signature restaurant-style fried rice can feel out of reach. This Benihana Chicken Fried Rice Recipe is your easy, go-to solution for crispy, savory, and perfectly seasoned rice.
In this article, you’ll discover straightforward steps to nail the chicken’s juiciness, keep your rice fluffy, and add a personal twist with fun variations. Let’s jump right in so you can serve up a memorable, homemade hibachi experience with minimal fuss.
Why You’ll Love This Benihana Chicken Fried Rice Recipe
Benihana Chicken Fried Rice Recipe stands out as a beloved Japanese steakhouse staple for good reason. Not only do you get that irresistible combination of savory chicken and perfectly seasoned rice, but you also enjoy a lively medley of vegetables that complement every bite. Plus, it’s all made in one pan or wok, simplifying cleanup on busy weeknights.
What Makes It Special
- Quick and Family-Friendly: Skip the long waits at the restaurant. A single pan, some leftover rice, and a few everyday ingredients are all it takes.
- Garlic Butter Goodness: That signature sizzle and aroma at Benihana often comes from their famous garlic butter. When you toss this into your fried rice, it infuses each spoonful with a rich, comforting flavor that’s hard to resist.
- Balanced Umami Flavor: A splash of soy sauce, the sweetness of sautéed onions and carrots, and tender chicken cooked to a safe internal temperature of 165°F (as recommended by the USDA) all come together for a mouthwatering umami punch.
- Customizable: Want more veggies? Add some broccoli or bean sprouts. Craving extra protein? Toss in scrambled eggs or increase your chicken amount. The beauty of a Benihana-inspired dish lies in how flexible it can be.
At the end of the day, this dish brings the lively, entertaining vibe of a hibachi grill right into your kitchen—minus the showy knife tricks (unless you’re feeling extra adventurous!). Up next, we’ll explore the exact ingredients you need and how they each play a role in recreating that benihana chicken fried rice copycat recipe at home.
Benihana Chicken Fried Rice Ingredients: What You Need
When gathering your essentials for Benihana Chicken Fried Rice Recipe, keep it simple. You can always get creative, but the base list below captures that signature restaurant taste:
- Chicken Breast (1 lb, diced)
Lean, tender, and the perfect canvas for the savory flavors of soy sauce and garlic butter. - Cooked Rice (4 cups, preferably day-old)
Chilled, leftover rice works best because it’s slightly dried out. This prevents a mushy texture and helps each grain absorb all those tasty seasonings. - Vegetable Oil (2 tablespoons)
Acts as the cooking medium, ensuring the chicken and veggies don’t stick to the pan. Benihana commonly uses a blend of oils, but plain vegetable oil is a solid choice at home. - Garlic Butter (2 tablespoons, optional but highly recommended)
Often highlighted as the “secret” in benihana chicken fried rice recipe garlic butter variations, it adds a luscious depth of flavor. You can make your own by mixing softened butter with minced garlic. - Onion (1 small, finely chopped)
Provides a lightly sweet and aromatic foundation for the stir-fry. - Carrots (1 cup, diced)
A classic addition for color, sweetness, and a bit of crunch. - Peas (1 cup, frozen or fresh)
Brings color and subtle sweetness that pairs well with savory notes. - Eggs (2, lightly beaten)
Essential for that classic fried rice texture and flavor—plus some extra protein. - Soy Sauce (3–4 tablespoons, or to taste)
The key seasoning that brings salty, umami depth. Adjust to your preference. - Sesame Oil (1 teaspoon, optional)
A little goes a long way for that distinctive nutty aroma. - Salt & Pepper (to taste)
Simple yet crucial to fine-tune your final flavor.
Optional Add-Ins:
- Green Onions or Scallions for garnish
- Ginger for a more pronounced Asian flavor
- Bell Peppers or Broccoli Florets for extra veggies
- Low-Sodium Soy Sauce if you’re watching your salt intake
Pro Tip: If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a dash of oyster sauce or a sprinkle of dried chili flakes to give your benihana chicken fried rice copycat recipe a personal twist. Next, we’ll walk through the simple steps to transform these ingredients into a sizzling plate of restaurant-style fried rice.
How to Make Benihana Chicken Fried Rice at Home
It’s time to bring that hibachi-style flair right into your kitchen. Here’s the step-by-step for Benihana Chicken Fried Rice Recipe that mimics the excitement of the teppanyaki grill without the fancy flipping.
- Prep Your Ingredients
- Make sure your leftover rice is cold. If you don’t have leftover rice, cook a batch and spread it on a tray or plate to cool in the fridge before using.
- Dice chicken breast into bite-sized pieces. Chop veggies into small, uniform pieces for even cooking.
- Heat Up the Pan
- Warm a large wok or nonstick skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add 1 tablespoon vegetable oil and swirl to coat the surface.
- Cook the Chicken
- Once the oil is hot, carefully add the diced chicken. Add a light sprinkle of salt and pepper for seasoning.
- Stir-fry for about 4–5 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through. According to the USDA, chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption. Remove it from the pan and set aside.
- Sauté the Veggies
- In the same pan, add another tablespoon of vegetable oil.
- Stir in chopped onions and carrots, cooking them for about 2 minutes until the onions start to turn translucent.
- Add peas and stir for another minute. (If you want more spice or flavor, toss in grated ginger or chili flakes here.)
- Push Veggies Aside & Cook Eggs
- Push the veggies to one side of the pan.
- Pour in the beaten eggs on the cleared side. Scramble until fully set, then mix them back in with the veggies.
- Add Rice and Seasonings
- Add your cold, cooked rice to the pan. Increase the heat slightly for a good stir-fry effect.
- Return the cooked chicken to the pan.
- Drizzle in soy sauce, a little at a time, and stir to distribute evenly. Toss in sesame oil if you like that nuttier finish.
- Incorporate Garlic Butter
- For that authentic benihana chicken fried rice recipe garlic butter flavor, stir in 2 tablespoons of garlic butter.
- Let it coat the rice, chicken, and veggies thoroughly. This step is key to achieving that signature hibachi taste.
- Taste and Adjust
- Add a dash more soy sauce if you crave extra savoriness.
- Season with salt and pepper to your liking.
- Plate and Garnish
- Serve your fried rice hot, garnished with thinly sliced green onions or sesame seeds for a subtle crunch.
With each bite, you’ll catch that characteristic smokiness and depth that make a benihana hibachi chicken fried rice recipe unforgettable. Stick around to learn some chef-approved tips and playful variations that can amp up your next batch!
Chef Tips and Variations for Benihana Chicken Fried Rice
Getting your recipe for benihana chicken fried rice exactly right often comes down to technique and thoughtful ingredient swaps. Whether you’re looking to master the basics or get creative with flavor twists, these tips will help you shine in the kitchen.
1. Wok vs. Skillet
- Wok: The curved shape allows high-heat cooking and makes tossing your ingredients easier.
- Nonstick Skillet: More accessible and still yields delicious results. Just ensure it’s large enough to spread out your ingredients for an even sauté.
2. Perfect Rice Texture
- Use Day-Old Rice: Fresh rice tends to be wetter and can clump. Leaving it in the fridge for a few hours helps ensure each grain stays separate.
- Break Up Clumps: Before adding rice to the pan, gently break apart any lumps with your hands or a fork.
3. Chicken Choices
- Breast vs. Thighs: Chicken breast is lean, while thighs offer more moisture. Feel free to use thighs if you prefer juicier bites, just ensure they’re cooked to 165°F for food safety.
- Marinate for Extra Flavor: Combine a little soy sauce, sesame oil, and minced garlic. Let the chicken rest in this mixture for 15–20 minutes before cooking for a punchier result.
4. Amp Up the Garlic Butter
- Homemade Garlic Butter: Simply mix softened unsalted butter with a pinch of salt, minced garlic, and a sprinkle of parsley if you like some color.
- Butter Timing: Add it at the end of cooking to keep its robust flavor intact.
5. Flavor Variations
- Spicy Kick: Stir in chili garlic sauce or Sriracha toward the final stages for heat lovers.
- Citrus Twist: Add a squeeze of lemon or lime for a refreshing zing.
- Healthier Swap: Swap white rice for brown rice to bump up fiber content.
Armed with these insights, you’re more than equipped to whip up a benihana chicken fried rice copycat recipe that’s bursting with taste and flair. Next, we’ll dig into some serving suggestions to turn your fried rice into a full-fledged meal.
Serving Suggestions for Benihana Hibachi Chicken Fried Rice
Wondering how to turn your Benihana Chicken Fried Rice Recipe into a complete dining experience? Here are a few ideas to elevate your meal, whether you’re hosting a gathering or just enjoying a quiet weeknight dinner.
- Pair with a Crisp Salad
- A simple cucumber and lettuce salad drizzled with a light vinaigrette creates a refreshing contrast to the warm, savory fried rice.
- Top it with toasted sesame seeds or chopped peanuts for extra crunch.
- Add a Protein Companion
- If you want extra protein, teriyaki-style chicken or grilled shrimp can complement your main dish.
- For plant-based guests, tofu cubes lightly sautéed in soy sauce and ginger make a great match.
- Serve with Dipping Sauces
- Benihana is famous for its creamy ginger sauce and mustard sauce. Drizzle these over your fried rice or use them as dipping options to bring out that authentic teppanyaki feel.
- A side of benihana chicken fried rice recipe garlic butter (extra portion) can also be set on the table for those who want an extra buttery boost.
- Sprinkle on Toppings
- Green onions, cilantro, or thinly sliced chilies add color and a fresh pop of flavor.
- A light dusting of sesame seeds or crushed peanuts offers a pleasant crunch.
- Round It Out with a Soup
- Miso soup or a light chicken broth can help balance the richness of the fried rice.
With these sides and add-ons, you’ll create a well-rounded, hearty meal that takes the benihana chicken fried rice copycat recipe to new heights. Next up: learn how to store and reheat any leftovers so not a single grain goes to waste.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers of Benihana Chicken Fried Rice
If you find yourself with extra Benihana Chicken Fried Rice Recipe at the end of your meal, consider it a win—leftovers can taste even better the next day!
Storing Tips
- Cool It Quickly: Once you’re done cooking, let your fried rice cool down at room temperature for no more than 1 hour.
- Use Airtight Containers: Transfer the cooled rice to a sealable container. The USDA recommends storing cooked leftovers within 2 hours of cooking to reduce bacterial growth.
- Keep It Fresh: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating Methods
- Microwave
- Place a portion of fried rice in a microwave-safe dish.
- Sprinkle a few drops of water on top to help retain moisture.
- Heat in 30-second increments, stirring each time, until warmed through.
- Stovetop
- Heat a nonstick skillet or wok over medium heat.
- Add a small splash of oil or a teaspoon of garlic butter.
- Toss in your leftover fried rice, stirring occasionally until steaming hot.
- Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- Spread the rice on a baking sheet and cover with foil.
- Bake for about 10–15 minutes, or until heated thoroughly.
Whichever method you choose, make sure the chicken pieces reach at least 165°F again before enjoying. Now that you know how to keep your rice fresh and flavorful, let’s wrap up some key takeaways before delving into our frequently asked questions.
Related Recipes You May Love
If you enjoyed this Benihana Chicken Fried Rice Recipe, here are some other tasty dishes you might want to try:
- Chick-fil-A Grilled Nuggets Recipe – A healthier, homemade version of the famous grilled nuggets.
- Jalapeño Chicken Recipe – Spicy, juicy, and packed with bold flavors.
- Easy Sloppy Joe Recipe (3 Ingredients) – A quick and effortless classic comfort meal.
- Chia Water Recipe – A refreshing and nutritious drink to pair with your meal.
- Ground Beef Crock Pot Recipes – Set it and forget it! Perfect for easy meal prep.
- Hailey Bieber Smoothie Recipe – A trendy, nutrient-packed smoothie to keep you refreshed.
Benihana Chicken Fried Rice Recipe
Equipment
- Large wok or nonstick skillet
- Spatula or wooden spoon
- Cutting board & knife
- Measuring cups/spoons
- Mixing bowls
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast diced
- 4 cups cooked white rice day-old, chilled
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil divided
- 2 tablespoons garlic butter softened butter mixed with minced garlic
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 1 cup carrots diced
- 1 cup peas fresh or frozen
- 2 eggs lightly beaten
- 3 –4 tablespoons soy sauce or to taste
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil optional
- Salt & pepper to taste
(Optional) Green onions or scallions for garnish
Instructions
- Prep Your Ingredients
- o Ensure rice is well-chilled and clump-free.
- o Chop chicken and veggies into small, uniform pieces.
- Cook Chicken
- o Heat 1 tablespoon vegetable oil in a wok or skillet over medium-high heat.
- o Add diced chicken, season lightly with salt and pepper, and stir-fry until cooked through (about 4–5 minutes or until internal temperature hits 165°F).
- o Remove chicken from the pan and set aside.
- Sauté Veggies
- o Add the remaining 1 tablespoon vegetable oil to the pan.
- o Stir in chopped onions and carrots. Cook for 2 minutes until the onions begin to soften.
- o Add peas and stir for an additional minute.
- Cook the Eggs
- o Push the veggies to one side of the pan.
- o Pour in beaten eggs on the cleared side, scramble until set, then mix with the veggies.
- Add Rice & Season
- o Stir in cold, cooked rice, breaking apart any clumps.
- o Return cooked chicken to the pan.
- o Drizzle soy sauce over everything, mixing thoroughly.
- o Add sesame oil, if desired.
- Incorporate Garlic Butter
- o Stir in garlic butter, letting it melt into the rice and veggies for an extra burst of flavor.
- o Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve Hot
- o Garnish with sliced green onions or sesame seeds.
- o Enjoy immediately.
Notes
- Allergen Alert: This dish contains soy (from soy sauce) and eggs.
- Technique Tip: Using chilled, leftover rice is crucial for achieving that perfectly fluffy and non-sticky fried rice texture.
Key Takeaways
Here are the highlights you’ll want to remember for a successful benihana hibachi chicken fried rice recipe every time:
- Cold, Day-Old Rice: This helps you avoid mushiness.
- High Heat & Quick Cooking: A hot pan ensures a slight crisp on the rice while keeping veggies vibrant.
- Garlic Butter: Infuse that signature hibachi aroma and flavor.
- Customizable Add-Ins: From extra veggies to spicy sauces, the sky’s the limit.
- Safe Storage: Cool promptly and reheat thoroughly, aiming for 165°F to ensure food safety.
With these points in mind, you’re already on track to making a delicious plate of recipe for benihana chicken fried rice. Next up, we’ll tackle the top questions people often have about this dish.
FAQs For Benihana Chicken Fried Rice Recipe
What does Benihana put in their fried rice?
Benihana typically includes day-old white rice, diced chicken, eggs, onions, carrots, peas, soy sauce, and their famous garlic butter. These simple ingredients combined at high heat create the savory flavors you’d recognize in a benihana chicken fried rice recipe garlic butter style dish.
What is the secret to a good fried rice?
It all comes down to using cold, day-old rice and cooking quickly over high heat. This method prevents sogginess and allows the grains to absorb seasonings without clumping. The addition of garlic butter also gives a richer, more authentic flavor in a benihana chicken fried rice copycat recipe.
What sauce does Benihana use?
Benihana is known for its creamy ginger sauce, mustard sauce, and garlic butter. You can recreate their signature profile by mixing soy sauce, sesame oil, minced garlic, and a bit of butter toward the end of cooking your benihana hibachi chicken fried rice recipe.
What kind of oil is used at Benihana?
They often use a blend of vegetable oil and sesame oil, which helps achieve a higher smoke point while still adding that characteristic nutty aroma. A mixture of these oils at home will help achieve a similar taste and texture.
Does Benihana use butter or margarine?
In most cases, Benihana relies on real butter, particularly in their garlic butter preparation. It offers a creamy, rich flavor that margarine can’t fully replicate. If you’re after authenticity in your recipe for benihana chicken fried rice, opt for real butter.
What seasoning for fried rice?
A classic seasoning mix includes soy sauce, salt, pepper, and sesame oil. Garlic butter is often added at the end for a bold finish. Feel free to add a dash of ginger or chili for extra zest in your home-cooked version.
Conclusion For Benihana Chicken Fried Rice Recipe
There’s something undeniably comforting about a hot plate of Benihana Chicken Fried Rice Recipe—from the sizzling soy sauce to the aromatic swirl of garlic butter. Making it yourself at home can transform an ordinary dinner into a mini show, complete with vibrant veggies and a satisfying crunch of perfectly fried rice. Whether you keep it simple or add your own creative twist, we hope this recipe inspires plenty of warm, delicious gatherings around your table.