There’s nothing quite like the enticing aroma of sizzling garlic and freshly cooked rice wafting through the kitchen, transporting you to a bustling hibachi restaurant. Inspired by one of my all-time favorite dining experiences—Benihana—this authentic chicken fried rice recipe captures that restaurant-quality taste right in your own home. Imagine sitting down with a plate filled with fluffy grains, vibrant vegetables, and tender chicken, all perfectly seasoned to create a savory umami explosion.

Whether you’re entertaining guests or simply treating yourself, this recipe is your ticket to a delicious and satisfying meal that far surpasses fast-food alternatives. With a few simple techniques and some overnight rice preparation, you can turn an everyday dish into an extraordinary culinary delight. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this delightful homemade version of Benihana Chicken Fried Rice!

Why is this Benihana Chicken Fried Rice special?

Irresistible Flavor: The delightful umami taste comes from a perfect blend of soy sauce and garlic, reminiscent of the beloved hibachi experience.

Easy Technique: Utilizing the “spread and sear” method means you can achieve those coveted crispy rice bits without any expert skills.

Flexibility: This recipe allows for easy substitutions, including using tofu for a vegetarian option or tailoring the spice level to your taste.

Overnight Preparation: By prepping your rice ahead, you ensure the perfect texture, making the cooking process a breeze.

Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for entertaining, this dish is sure to impress anyone at your dinner table—elevating your meal from mundane to magical!

Get ready to explore more delicious ideas in your kitchen while enjoying this fantastic recipe!

Benihana Chicken Fried Rice Ingredients

• Prepare to recreate that delightful hibachi taste with these key ingredients!

For the Rice

Short-grain white rice – This is the ideal base for achieving fluffy grains; for a healthier option, try brown rice (increase water by 2 tablespoons per cup).

For Cooking

Safflower oil (or peanut oil) – Essential for high-heat cooking, giving the rice that authentic crispiness.
Unsalted butter – Adds richness; consider using a hint of garlic butter for an aromatic boost.

For Flavor

Yellow onion – Delivers a sweet depth; shallots can be used for a milder taste.
Garlic – Provides aromatic flavor; make sure to mince it for even distribution.
Soy sauce – Introduces savory saltiness and umami depth; opt for low-sodium to make it healthier.
Garlic powder, onion powder, sea salt, white pepper – These are the foundational components of the secret seasoning blend that enhances flavor.

For Texture

Eggs – Aside from binding, they contribute to the rice’s texture; scramble them until just slightly runny.
Frozen peas and carrots – Bring color and crunch; fresh veggies can work, but make sure they’re thawed beforehand.
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts – This serves as the main protein; feel free to swap with tofu for a vegetarian option.
Green onions – Freshly chopped for garnish and added brightness; keep some aside for serving.
Toasted sesame seeds – These sprinkle on top for crunch and a visual appeal.

With these ingredients in your pantry, you’re one step closer to an unforgettable meal that highlights the magic of Benihana Chicken Fried Rice!

How to Make Benihana Chicken Fried Rice

Prepare Rice (Day Before): Cook short-grain white rice and reduce water by 2 tablespoons per cup. Spread the rice on a baking sheet and refrigerate uncovered overnight for the best results.
Cook Chicken: Heat safflower oil in a wok over high heat. Add boneless, skinless chicken breasts and cook until opaque, then mix in garlic butter and soy sauce until fully cooked. Remove from the wok and set aside.
Cook Eggs: In the same wok, melt unsalted butter and scramble the beaten eggs until slightly runny. Remove them from the wok and set aside.
Sauté Vegetables: Keep the heat high; add yellow onions to the wok and cook until translucent. Toss in minced garlic for 30 seconds before adding frozen peas and carrots, cooking everything for about 1 minute.
Fry Rice: Add the remaining oil and butter, then incorporate the cold rice into the wok. Spread it evenly and let it cook undisturbed to form a crispy crust, stirring only 2-3 times.
Season and Combine: Sprinkle the secret seasoning mix alongside additional soy sauce over the rice. Gently fold in the cooked chicken and eggs, ensuring even distribution.
Finish: Off the heat, mix in the majority of the chopped green onions. Transfer the fried rice to a serving dish, topping with the remaining green onions and toasted sesame seeds.

Optional: Drizzle a bit of extra soy sauce before serving for added flavor.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Benihana Chicken Fried Rice

Chill the Rice: Using cold, overnight rice is crucial to prevent clumping. Freshly cooked rice retains too much moisture.
High Heat is Key: Maintain high heat while cooking to achieve those desirable crispy bits of rice that mimic authentic hibachi flavors.
Spread and Sear Technique: Don’t rush; let the rice spread out in the pan to develop that perfect crust. Stir only 2-3 times for best results.
Eggs for Texture: Scramble the eggs until they are still slightly runny. This will add a lovely creaminess to the fried rice, making each bite delightful.
Customize Ingredients: Feel free to swap in tofu or other proteins for a vegetarian version of this Benihana Chicken Fried Rice. Enhance heat with sriracha for a spicy kick!

What to Serve with Benihana Chicken Fried Rice?

Imagine enjoying a lively dinner where each dish complements the next, creating a harmonious meal experience.

Teriyaki Chicken: The sweet and savory flavors of teriyaki chicken juxtapose beautifully with the umami of fried rice, enhancing your dining experience.
Miso Soup: A warm, comforting bowl of miso soup adds a light, refreshing touch and balances the heartiness of the fried rice.
Crispy Egg Rolls: These crunchy, delightful bites provide a textural contrast to the rice and are perfect for dipping in sweet and sour sauce.
Asian Slaw: A fresh, crunchy salad with a tangy vinaigrette can lighten your meal while complementing the rich flavors of the chicken fried rice.
Spicy Tuna Tartare: For a sophisticated touch, this dish offers a vibrant, flavorful entree that elevates your dinner to a restaurant-style experience.
Cold Sake: This smooth Japanese rice wine pairs nicely with the meal, complementing flavors and providing a refreshing sip alongside each bite of fried rice.
Mango Sticky Rice: As a sweet ending, this dessert features luscious mangoes and creamy coconut sticky rice, providing a delightful contrast to savory flavors enjoyed earlier.

Each of these options brings out the best in your Benihana Chicken Fried Rice, creating a memorable feast!

How to Store and Freeze Benihana Chicken Fried Rice

Fridge: Store your leftover Benihana chicken fried rice in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure it cools completely before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe bags or containers, where it can last for up to 2 months. Remember to label the bags with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw frozen rice overnight in the fridge. Reheat in a hot wok with a splash of water or a bit of butter, stirring frequently until heated through.

Make-Ahead Tip: You can prepare the fried rice up to 24 hours ahead. Store it in the fridge and reheat for quick, delicious meals throughout the week!

Make Ahead Options

These Benihana Chicken Fried Rice make-ahead options are a lifesaver for busy weeknights! You can prepare the rice up to 24 hours in advance by cooking it, spreading it on a baking sheet, and refrigerating it uncovered overnight to keep it from clumping. Additionally, you can chop all your vegetables and even cook your chicken ahead of time, storing everything in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply sauté the cooked ingredients in a hot wok, add your cold rice, and follow through with the seasoning and final steps for that satisfying, restaurant-quality taste. This way, you’ll be enjoying a delicious homemade meal without the stress of last-minute cooking!

Benihana Chicken Fried Rice Variations

Feel free to take your culinary creativity to the next level with these delightful twists that make this recipe your own!

Vegetarian Delight: Replace the chicken with tofu or add an array of colorful vegetables, like bell peppers and broccoli, for a satisfying and healthy alternative. Enjoy the crunch as they mingle with the rice during cooking!
Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or sriracha while sautéing the vegetables to bring an exciting heat to your dish. This variation will tantalize your taste buds and add a memorable zing!
Seafood Option: Substitute chicken for shrimp or scallops, ensuring they’re perfectly cooked before mixing them into the rice. The seafood will absorb the flavors beautifully, making it a delightful choice for seafood lovers.
Beefy Twist: For a heartier version, use thin strips of beef instead of chicken. Marinate them briefly in soy sauce for extra flavor, bringing a rich, savory note to every bite.
Ultimate Umami: Add shiitake mushrooms for a deep, earthy flavor that enhances the umami profile of the dish. Their meaty texture will complement the rice, making each mouthful a true delight.
Citrus Burst: Squeeze some fresh lime or lemon juice over the finished dish before serving to brighten up the flavors. This refreshing twist will take your taste buds on a zesty adventure!
Herbed Upgrade: Stir in fresh herbs like cilantro or Thai basil right at the end for an aromatic lift, offering a fragrant contrast to the savory ingredients. This elevates the dish, creating a vibrant taste experience.
Nutty Crunch: Top your fried rice with chopped cashews or peanuts for a delightful crunch and an added layer of flavor that pairs beautifully with the other ingredients. It’s the unexpected crunch that adds joy to your meal!

Benihana Chicken Fried Rice Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best rice for this recipe?
Absolutely! Short-grain white rice is key for achieving the fluffy texture that this Benihana Chicken Fried Rice demands. If you want a healthier option, consider substituting with brown rice. Just remember to increase the water by an extra 2 tablespoons per cup to ensure it cooks properly!

What’s the best way to store leftovers?
I recommend storing leftover Benihana chicken fried rice in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure it has cooled completely before sealing the container to maintain that fresh taste. You can always reheat it in a hot wok with a dab of butter for that savory goodness.

Can I freeze Benihana Chicken Fried Rice? How?
Yes, you can! Freeze your Benihana chicken fried rice in portions using freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 2 months. When freezing, be sure to remove as much air as possible. Just label each bag with the date for easy tracking. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge.

Why is my fried rice clumpy?
Very good question! Clumpy fried rice usually occurs when you use fresh, warm rice instead of chilled rice. Always prepare your rice the day before and refrigerate it uncovered overnight. This process reduces moisture, allowing each grain to separate beautifully when frying.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! To create a vegetarian version of Benihana chicken fried rice, simply replace the chicken with tofu or an assortment of your favorite vegetables. You can even up the protein by adding edamame or mushrooms for extra texture and flavor.

Are there any allergens in this recipe?
Keep in mind that this Benihana Chicken Fried Rice includes ingredients like soy sauce and possibly butter, which can be allergens for some individuals. You can easily modify the recipe by using gluten-free soy sauce and plant-based butter alternatives to accommodate various dietary needs. Always check with your guests for any allergies beforehand!