Benihana ChickenFried Rice Recipe

Are you craving that signature Benihana chicken fried rice but can’t make it to the restaurant? This perfect copycat recipe brings the iconic hibachi experience right to your kitchen. As a long-time fan of Benihana’s famous fried rice, I’ve perfected this homemade version that captures all the flavors and techniques that make the original so special.

What sets Benihana fried rice apart is its perfect balance of tender chicken, fluffy rice, and fresh vegetables, all enhanced by their secret blend of seasonings. This recipe breaks down their legendary cooking method into simple steps anyone can master. Whether you’re planning a special dinner or just want to elevate your weeknight meals, this Benihana chicken fried rice recipe delivers restaurant-quality results at a fraction of the cost.

Get ready to impress your family and friends with this spot-on recreation of Benihana’s most beloved dish. I’ll show you exactly how to achieve that authentic hibachi-style taste and texture that keeps people coming back to Benihana time after time.

Key Benefits

Making this Benihana chicken fried rice recipe at home offers so many advantages that’ll make you wonder why you didn’t try it sooner. Let me share why this copycat version deserves a spot in your recipe collection:

Restaurant Quality at Home

Transform your kitchen into a hibachi grill with this authentic recreation of Benihana’s signature dish. You’ll master the same techniques that their skilled chefs use, creating that distinctive flavor and texture that made Benihana famous. The best part? You don’t need any special equipment – just basic kitchen tools and fresh ingredients.

Cost-Effective Family Meals

Skip the expensive restaurant bill without sacrificing flavor. This recipe serves 4-6 people generously, making it perfect for family dinners or meal prep. One batch costs a fraction of what you’d pay at Benihana while delivering the same delicious experience.

Customizable to Your Taste

Unlike the restaurant version, you have complete control over the ingredients. Adjust the seasonings, add extra vegetables, or modify the protein to match your dietary preferences. Whether you prefer more garlic, less soy sauce, or want to make it spicier, you’re in charge of the flavor profile.

Quick and Convenient

Once you’ve gathered your ingredients, this recipe comes together in about 30 minutes. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something special but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. Plus, you can prepare components ahead of time to make the cooking process even smoother.

Impressive Entertainment Option

Hosting a dinner party? This Benihana-style fried rice never fails to impress guests. The cooking process itself becomes part of the entertainment, especially if you incorporate some of the theatrical flipping and chopping techniques that Benihana chefs are known for (though that’s entirely optional!).

By mastering this recipe, you’ll add a versatile, crowd-pleasing dish to your cooking repertoire that delivers both on flavor and presentation. Ready to learn the secrets behind this legendary fried rice? Let’s dive into the ingredients you’ll need.

Ingredients

Let’s gather everything you’ll need to create the perfect Benihana chicken fried rice. I’ve broken down the ingredients into categories to make your prep work easier:

For the Rice Base:

• 4 cups cooked medium-grain white rice (day-old rice works best)
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil
• 4 tablespoons butter, divided
• 1 medium onion, finely diced
• 2 carrots, finely diced
• 3 green onions, thinly sliced (separate white and green parts)
• 2 cups frozen peas
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten

For the Chicken:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into ½-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Signature Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons garlic butter
• 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon white pepper

Special Notes: The key to authentic Benihana fried rice ingredients lies in their quality and preparation. Here are some important points to remember:

• Rice should be cooked and chilled overnight for best results
• Use fresh vegetables whenever possible
• Japanese-style medium-grain rice is preferred over long-grain varieties
• Look for high-quality soy sauce (preferably Japanese brands)
• Make garlic butter by combining softened butter with minced garlic

Storage Requirements:

• Keep uncooked ingredients refrigerated until ready to use
• Store raw chicken separately from other ingredients
• Prep vegetables just before cooking for optimal freshness

Now that we have all our Benihana fried rice ingredients ready, let’s move on to the step-by-step cooking instructions that will bring this dish to life!

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Instructions

Let’s break down this Benihana chicken fried rice recipe into clear, manageable steps. Follow along carefully, and you’ll be cooking like a hibachi chef in no time!

Prep Work (15 minutes):

1. Remove rice from refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to bring to room temperature
2. Cut chicken into uniform ½-inch cubes and season with salt and pepper
3. Prepare all vegetables and place them in separate bowls
4. Beat eggs in a small bowl and set aside
5. Mix sauce ingredients in a separate bowl until well combined

Cook the Chicken (8-10 minutes):

1. Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet on medium-high heat.
2. Add seasoned chicken cubes, spreading them evenly
3. Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked through.
4. Remove chicken and set aside, keeping warm

Create the Base (10 minutes):

1. In the same pan, add 1 tablespoon sesame oil and 2 tablespoons butter
2. Add diced onions and carrots, sautéing until onions become translucent (3-4 minutes)
3. Push vegetables to one side and add beaten eggs to the empty space
4. Scramble eggs until just set, then mix with vegetables
5. Add frozen peas and white parts of green onions, cooking for 2 minutes

Final Assembly (10 minutes):

1. Add remaining sesame oil and butter to the pan
2. Add room-temperature rice, breaking up any clumps with your spatula
3. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until rice is heated through
4. Pour in the prepared sauce mixture, stirring constantly to coat evenly
5. Return cooked chicken to the pan
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently
7. Finish with green onion tops and extra sesame seeds

Critical Temperature Notes:

• Keep heat at medium-high throughout cooking
• Pan should be hot enough that rice sizzles when added
• If rice starts to stick, adjust heat slightly lower

Timing is Everything: The entire cooking process should take about 30 minutes once prep is complete. Don’t rush the steps – proper timing ensures each ingredient cooks perfectly and flavors develop fully.

Remember to taste and adjust seasonings before serving. The rice should be steaming hot with a perfect balance of flavors and textures, just like at Benihana!

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Pro Tips and Variations

Want to elevate your Benihana chicken fried rice to the next level? After perfecting this copycat recipe through countless tests, I’ve discovered some game-changing tips and creative variations that will help you achieve restaurant-quality results every time.

Expert Cooking Tips:

• Always use day-old rice – freshly cooked rice contains too much moisture and will become mushy
• Heat your wok or pan until it’s smoking before adding oil – this prevents sticking and creates that perfect char
• Cut all vegetables to similar sizes for even cooking
• Keep ingredients moving constantly once they hit the pan
• Press rice gently against the pan in between stirring to create crispy bits

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

• Overcrowding the pan (work in batches if needed)
• Using wet or freshly washed vegetables (they should be completely dry)
• Stirring the rice too frequently (let it develop some crispy texture)
• Adding all the sauce at once (gradually add and taste)

Exciting Variations:

Protein Swaps:

• Shrimp Variation: Replace chicken with peeled shrimp for a seafood twist
• Tofu Version: Use extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed, for a vegetarian option
• Combo Style: Mix chicken and shrimp for an upgraded experience

Vegetable Modifications:

• Mushroom Boost: Add sliced mushrooms for an umami punch
• Spicy Kick: Include diced jalapeños or a splash of sriracha
• Extra Veggies: Try adding bean sprouts or baby corn for authentic Asian flair

Dietary Adaptations:

• Gluten-Free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce
• Low-Carb: Substitute cauliflower rice for regular rice
• Vegetarian: Skip the chicken and double up on vegetables

Secret Flavor Enhancers:

• Add a dash of fish sauce for depth
• Include a splash of rice vinegar for brightness
• Finish with a drizzle of chili oil for heat
• Mix in a teaspoon of oyster sauce for richness

Remember, the best Benihana fried rice recipe is one that you’ve adapted to your own taste preferences while maintaining the core techniques that make it special. Don’t be afraid to experiment once you’ve mastered the basic version!

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Serving Suggestions

Now that your Benihana chicken fried rice is ready, it’s time to plate it like a pro and turn it into a complete dining experience! Here’s how to serve it in a way that’ll make your meal feel just like a night out at Benihana:

Pair It with Sides

• Yum Yum Sauce: No Benihana copycat recipe is complete without this creamy, tangy sauce. Drizzle it over the rice or serve it on the side for dipping.
• Grilled Vegetables: Add a pop of color and freshness with zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers grilled to perfection.
• Miso Soup: Start your meal with a warm bowl of miso soup for that authentic Benihana vibe.

Add Some Protein

• Hibachi-Style Chicken or Steak: Double down on the Benihana experience by serving your fried rice with grilled chicken or steak, seasoned with soy sauce and garlic.
• Shrimp Tempura: Crispy shrimp tempura makes a delightful addition to your meal.

Presentation Tips

• Garnish with Green Onions: Sprinkle finely chopped green onions on top for a fresh, vibrant finish.
• Sesame Seeds: A light sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds adds a nutty flavor and a touch of elegance.
• Serve in a Bowl or on a Plate: For a casual meal, serve it in a bowl. For a fancier presentation, mold the rice into a small bowl and invert it onto a plate for a restaurant-style look.

Drink Pairings

• Green Tea: Keep it traditional with a cup of hot or iced green tea.
• Sake or White Wine: For an adult twist, pair your fried rice with a glass of sake or a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio.

Make It a Family Affair

• Set up a DIY hibachi station at home! Let everyone customize their plates with fried rice, proteins, and veggies. It’s a fun, interactive way to enjoy this Benihana-inspired meal.

With these serving suggestions, your Benihana chicken fried rice will feel like a restaurant-quality dish right at home. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend feast, this meal is sure to impress!

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Conclusion

Congratulations—you’ve just mastered the art of making Benihana chicken fried rice at home! This recipe isn’t just a copycat; it’s a celebration of the bold, savory flavors that make Benihana’s fried rice so unforgettable. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or a group of friends, this dish is guaranteed to bring a little restaurant magic to your kitchen.

Why This Recipe Works

• Authentic Flavors: With the right ingredients and techniques, this recipe captures the essence of Benihana fried rice.
• Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute cravings.
• Customizable: Swap ingredients or adjust seasonings to make it your own.

A Final Tip

The secret to truly nailing this dish is in the details: using day-old rice, cooking over high heat, and seasoning generously with soy sauce and butter. Don’t be afraid to put your own spin on it—cooking is all about creativity!

Share the Love

If you enjoyed this Benihana copycat recipe, share it with your friends and family. Better yet, invite them over for a homemade hibachi night! And don’t forget to let us know how it turned out—your feedback makes our culinary journey even more rewarding.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your skillet, fire up the stove, and get ready to enjoy the best Benihana fried rice recipe you’ll ever make at home. Happy cooking!

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FAQs

Got questions about making Benihana chicken fried rice at home? Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered! Here are answers to some of the most common questions to help you perfect this iconic dish:

If you have more questions, feel free to drop them in the comments below! We’re here to help you master this Benihana copycat recipe and make it your own. Happy cooking!