Imagine sitting down to a steaming plate of Benihana chicken fried rice—the savory aroma of soy sauce and sesame oil fills the air, while the crispy edges of the rice promise a perfect bite. The tender chicken, sweet peas, and perfectly scrambled eggs all come together in a dish that’s both satisfying and flavorful. Now, what if you could enjoy this iconic hibachi meal right from the comfort of your kitchen? In this article, we’ll walk you through how to make your very own Benihana chicken fried rice recipe at home, complete with all the tips and tricks you need for success.
Whether you’ve been craving this Japanese steakhouse classic or you’re looking to impress your friends and family, making your own Benihana fried rice is easier than you think. This step-by-step guide will help you recreate that perfect hibachi flavor, with no special equipment needed. Let’s dive in and discover how you can enjoy this delicious meal tonight!
Table of Contents
What is Benihana Chicken Fried Rice?
Benihana chicken fried rice is a flavorful, hearty dish that combines seasoned rice, tender chicken, scrambled eggs, vegetables, and a special blend of seasonings. Served at the famous Benihana restaurants, this Benihana hibachi chicken is known for its crispy rice texture, the perfect balance of soy sauce and butter, and the fresh crunch of veggies.
What makes Benihana fried rice recipe unique is the combination of high-quality ingredients and the simple yet effective cooking technique. It’s a hibachi classic made right in front of you on a sizzling grill at Benihana, but now, you can easily replicate this experience at home with a skillet or wok.
Key Ingredients in Benihana Chicken Fried Rice
- Chicken: The star of this recipe. Whether you use chicken breasts or thighs, the chicken should be tender and juicy.
- Rice: Cold, day-old rice works best for fried rice. It has a drier texture, which makes it easier to fry and achieve a crispy texture.
- Eggs: Scrambled eggs give the fried rice a rich texture and added flavor.
- Vegetables: Peas and carrots are common in this dish, but you can also add onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra flavor.
- Seasonings: Soy sauce, sesame oil, and butter are key to achieving the authentic taste of Benihana rice recipe.
Now that we have an idea of what to expect, let’s explore why you’ll love making this dish at home!
Why You’ll Love This Benihana Chicken Fried Rice Recipe
If you’ve ever had Benihana hibachi chicken, you know it’s a meal you’ll never forget. The rich flavors, tender chicken, and crispy rice make it the perfect combination. When you make this Benihana chicken fried rice recipe at home, you get all of that without having to leave your kitchen. Here are a few reasons why this recipe is a must-try:
Flavorful and Satisfying
This dish is packed with umami-rich flavors from the soy sauce and sesame oil. The Benihana fried rice offers the right balance of savory, sweet, and salty notes, making it incredibly satisfying. The chicken adds protein, while the rice soaks up all the delicious seasonings.
Quick and Easy to Make
Unlike what you might think, preparing this Benihana fried rice recipe is quick and easy. With just a few key ingredients, you can whip up this delicious dish in less than 30 minutes. The best part? You don’t need a hibachi grill to recreate that signature restaurant taste!
Perfect for Customizing
Whether you prefer a little more spice, a vegetarian version, or an extra kick of garlic, this recipe is incredibly versatile. You can tweak it to match your preferences, making it your own Benihana rice recipe.
Now that you know why you’ll love making this dish at home, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of recreating Benihana chicken fried rice in your kitchen.
How to Make Benihana Chicken Fried Rice at Home
Ingredients for Benihana Chicken Fried Rice
To make your Benihana chicken fried rice, gather the following ingredients. You’ll need:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Chicken breasts | 2, boneless, skinless |
| Cold cooked white rice | 4 cups |
| Eggs | 2, lightly beaten |
| Frozen peas and carrots | 1 cup |
| Soy sauce | 3 tablespoons |
| Sesame oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Butter | 1 tablespoon |
| Garlic, minced | 2 cloves |
| Green onions | 3, chopped |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Start by cooking the chicken. Warm 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Cook the chicken for 5-6 minutes on each side until fully cooked and golden brown. Remove the chicken from the pan, let it rest for a few minutes, then dice it into bite-sized pieces.
Step 2: Scramble the Eggs
In the same pan, add a little more sesame oil if needed. Add the beaten eggs to the pan and scramble them until they are fully cooked. Remove the eggs from the pan and set them aside with the chicken.
Step 3: Fry the Rice
Place 1 tablespoon of butter in the pan and allow it to melt. Add the garlic and sauté for 30 seconds, then toss in the cold rice. Stir fry the rice for 3-4 minutes until it begins to crisp and brown slightly. Use a spatula to break apart any clumps of rice.
Step 4: Add the Vegetables and Chicken
Add the peas and carrots to the pan and cook for another 2 minutes. Then, add the cooked chicken and scrambled eggs back into the pan, stirring to combine.
Step 5: Season the Rice
Pour the soy sauce over the rice and mix thoroughly, making sure the rice is evenly coated with the sauce. Add more soy sauce to taste. Stir in the green onions and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once everything is combined and heated through, your Benihana chicken fried rice is ready to serve! Garnish with extra green onions or sesame seeds if desired.
Tips for the Best Benihana Fried Rice
To make your Benihana fried rice even better, consider these helpful tips:
- Use cold rice: This is one of the most important tips for making the best fried rice. Freshly cooked rice will be too soft and sticky, while cold rice holds its shape and fries up better.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: If you’re making a large batch, cook the rice in batches to ensure it gets crispy.
- Customize your veggies: Feel free to experiment with adding more vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or even mushrooms for added flavor and texture.
By following these tips, you’ll be able to recreate the Benihana rice recipe with authentic flavors and perfect textures every time.
How Long Does It Take to Make Benihana Chicken Fried Rice?
One of the best things about this Benihana chicken fried rice recipe is how quick and easy it is to prepare. Here’s a breakdown of the time:
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 15 minutes
- Total time: 25 minutes
In just under 30 minutes, you’ll have a delicious hibachi-inspired meal that rivals the restaurant experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What makes Benihana fried rice so special?
Benihana fried rice gets its signature flavor from the perfect balance of soy sauce, sesame oil, and butter, combined with tender chicken and crispy rice.
Can I use different protein in this recipe?
Yes! Feel free to swap the chicken for shrimp, beef, or tofu for a delicious vegetarian alternative.
How can I make this recipe healthier?
To make it healthier, use brown rice instead of white rice, reduce the amount of soy sauce, and add more vegetables to the mix.
Can I make Benihana fried rice without a wok?
Absolutely! A large skillet works just as well for frying the rice. The key is to get the pan hot enough to crisp up the rice.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep any leftover Benihana chicken fried rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply toss it in a pan with a little soy sauce or water to revive the moisture.
Nutritional Information for Benihana Chicken Fried Rice
Here’s the nutritional breakdown for one serving of this Benihana fried rice recipe (based on 4 servings):
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
Substitute Ingredients for Benihana Chicken Fried Rice
- Rice alternatives: Use brown rice, cauliflower rice, or jasmine rice for different textures and flavors.
- Vegetables: Feel free to swap out the peas and carrots for other veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach.
- Protein options: Shrimp, beef, or tofu can be used instead of chicken for variety.
Serving Suggestions
- Pairings: Serve your Benihana chicken fried rice with a side of hibachi-style vegetables or miso soup for a full meal.
- Add some heat: If you like spice, drizzle some sriracha or chili sauce over the fried rice before serving.
Conclusion: Try This Benihana Chicken Fried Rice Recipe Tonight!
Now that you have the perfect Benihana chicken fried rice recipe in hand, it’s time to get cooking! With simple ingredients, a few quick steps, and a little bit of love, you can create a restaurant-quality meal in your own kitchen. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or a special treat for family and friends, this Benihana fried rice is sure to impress.
So, gather your ingredients, fire up your skillet, and get ready to enjoy a mouthwatering hibachi meal. Don’t forget to share your creation with us in the comments below, and be sure to bookmark this recipe for future cravings. Happy cooking!